Fantastic Fete has returned to St Donats Castle for two consecutive weekends, promising more than a typical food festival. Run by the Street Food Circus team, it combines street food, castle views, and a packed entertainment line-up.
Entertainment beyond the usual fete stalls
There is no coconut shy or tombola. Instead, families find Mexican wrestling, a huge bouncy castle (£5, no under-4s, no adults, and no slides, as one young visitor noted), a vintage roller rink, and crazy golf at £3 a go. A bubble disco and craft sessions are free, Fiery Jack's provides wooden games for all ages, and there is also a canine circus show.
Daytime and after-dark sessions
Each day offers two sessions: 10am-4pm and 4pm until late. As the sun goes down, the event becomes an "after dark" party with music and fire shows, creating a laid-back festival atmosphere.
The site is a 15-minute walk from the entrance, with activities spread across different parts of the castle grounds. On the first Saturday, opening was delayed by 30 minutes, which the writer attributed to teething troubles, adding that better communication would have helped while waiting in the heat.
Swimming in the castle pool
A standout perk for families is the chance to book 30-minute slots in the Atlantic College pool within the grounds. The pool is unheated, but on a hot day it provides a refreshing break. The writer's children were thrilled at the idea of swimming inside a castle.
Food and drink
Street food traders include Welsh favourites Dough Thrower and Fire and Flank, plus Mar y Fuego (seafood), Two Lads Kitchen (Afghan cuisine), Drizzle Desserts and Churros Hermanos. Many vendors offer kids' dishes, making it easier for families to find something for everyone.
The writer tried birria tacos and kids' nachos from TNT Tacos, seabass with Lebanese flatbread, and an Afghan chicken wrap. Mains cost around £13 upwards, ice cream was £4.50 a scoop, pints nearly £8 with a £1 reusable cup charge, and cocktails left little change from £10. Some food outlets appear at only one of the two weekends, so it is worth checking ahead.
Cost and value
Entry starts at £10 for adults, children under 16 go free, and parking costs £5. Swimming is an extra £5. Dogs are welcome. Despite the costs, the event is described as chilled, with great music and plenty of free activities, making it a worthwhile family day out.
Fantastic Fete runs at St Donats on August 1-2 and August 8-9.
