RHUDDLAN CASTLE is not among a collection of Wales' major heritage sites that are now open to the public.

Many of Wales’s most iconic castles, abbeys an historic sites began to re-open their doors from Monday with site entry tickets slashed to reflect the recent VAT reduction.

18 of Cadw’s 25 staffed heritage sites reopened as part of a phased action plan enabling people to visit the sites for the first time since March, including Conwy Castle, Denbigh Castle and Plas Mawr.

However, Rhuddlan Castle is not included on this initial list of 18 sites, and according to Cadw’s website is among seven staffed heritage sites set to reopen in Spring 2021.

In a statement posted on social media, a spokesperson for Rhuddlan Castle said: "Unfortunately we will not re-open until April 2021, as we don't have enough staff in the area to cover re-opening all of our sites as we are increasing staff presence at other sites to ensure safety.

"As Rhuddlan is seasonal, the staff have been re-located to year round sites such as Denbigh Castle."

The new booking system for site which are open is accessible via the Cadw website and requires both Cadw members and general visitors to reserve or purchase time-allotted tickets, (10am - 1pm and 1pm - 5pm) no less than 24 hours in advance of their visit.

The ticketed entry process will allow Cadw to manage reduced visitor capacities — ensuring a safe and social distancing.