| AdminHistory | Three-day Fetes were held in the grounds of the Castle every Whitsun. They were extremely popular from the first fete in 1850, until they ceased during the First World War (1914-1918). The fetes raised considerable sums of money for local charities, such as the Guest Hospital, Mechanic's Institute, the Art School and the Public Library. In some years, the limestone caverns were illuminated by gas and opened to the public. Fireworks displays and balloon ascents were also regular features of the event. |