VISITORS struck the sails and grabbed their cutlasses as they came in search of plunder and booty across the Seven Seas to Caldicot Castle for the pirate festival on 19th to 20th August.

Captain Ddraig attempted to take control of the UK’s largest shipping channel by taking Caldicot Castle. The king’s men were intent on holding off this invasion.

The festival featured famous faces such as captains Sparrow, Barbosa and Hook, living history areas that showed how life was like for people in the 17th and 18th centuries, activities for the young and young-at-heart and a fully licensed 18th century tavern, 

Traders, militia displays and some very loud bangs was the order of the day, there was a dressing up competition with adult, kids and pet categories.

The pirates engaged in bloody battle with the king’s men to gain control of the castle, with the sound of the roar of cannon and musket fire mixed with the clash of polished steel as swords were drawn. Visitors felt the excitement as the ground rumbled with a band of angry pirates charging the enemies ranks.

Photos courtesy of Byron Calloway