WALES’ historic attractions are expecting to welcome thousands of visitors this month.

Cadw is launching Open Doors, which offers people the chance to explore the hidden gems of Wales’s culture and history.

In Pembrokeshire, the following will be open between September 1 and September 30, between 9am and 7pm:

Hodgeston Church – A Grade II listed church owned by The Friends of Friendless Churches. Important for the 3 seats for the clergy in the sanctuary under elaborate 14th century canopies, almost certainly by the same carvers as at the Bishop's Palace at St David's.

St David’s Church - Church or organic form famous for its Georgian monuments inside and out, its 18th century pews and its own coracle. Owned by The Friends of Friendless Churches since 2000.

St. Teilo Church - Owned by The Friends of Friendless Churches since 2002. A rebuild of 1926-27 by Coates Carter inspired by the Arts and Crafts Movement, the centre filled by the screen put up in memory of a son killed in the Great War.

Tudor Merchant House (September 12, 11am – 4.30pm) - See how our merchant and his family would have lived, in this late 15th Century town house overlooking Tenby’s harbour. You are encouraged to explore by picking things up, opening cupboards and sitting on the chairs and the benches. Why not get dressed up or play with the toys? Play the Family Fortunes game and find out how our Tudors lived and worked.

Cilgerran Castle (September 26 and September 27, 11am – 4pm) - The Normans first saw the potential and established an early 'ringwork' castle at Cilgerran, but the imposing masonry castle we see today was probably the work of William Marshal, earl of Pembroke. Cilgerran is first mentioned by name in 1165, when the Lord Rhys captured the castle. It was retaken by William Marshal in 1204, only to be taken again by the Welsh during Llywelyn the Great's campaigns in 1215. However, eight years later, William's son, another William, regained control. Traditionally, medieval castles were designed with a keep or strong tower at the centre but Cilgerran Castle is unusual because two massive round towers were erected instead. These, despite Owain Glyn D?r's best efforts, still stand to a good height today.

Lamphey Bishop’s Palace (September 26 and September 27, 11am – 4pm) - Find out more about the site’s fascinating history and architecture and take a walk around to appreciate its beautiful location and setting. Lamphey Bishop's Palace was the retreat of choice for those medieval bishops seeking solace from the everyday stresses of Church and State. The medieval bishops of St Davids were worldly men who enjoyed the privileges of wealth, power and status. Lamphey did not disappoint. A palace fit for a queen, or at least the occasional bishop.

St. David’s Bishop’s Palace (September 26 and September 27, 11am – 4pm) - Find out more about its fascinating history and architecture and take a walk around to appreciate its beautiful location and setting. The principal state residence of the Medieval Bishops of St David’s, with the main building phase being 1328 and 1347 under the episcopate of Bishop Henry Gower. A highly ornate building, it reflects the power and wealth of the medieval church and its Bishops.

Some venues have limited numbers of spaces or require advance booking. Visit www.cadw.wales.gov.uk/opendoors for full event listings and details of properties taking part in the programme.