A remarkable ‘giant umbrella’ the first of its kind in the UK has been officially unveiled at Bluestone National Park Resort, generating dozens of jobs and expected to inject millions into the local economy.

The groundbreaking Serendome will literally bring the outdoors indoors under its 380ft high and 252ft wide umbrella-like dome at the Pembrokeshire resort in West Wales. It’s an architectural feat unlike any other in the UK and a landmark moment for the Welsh tourist industry.

An estimated £21 million is expected to boost the local economy over 10 years as a result of the project, which has created 55 jobs – with £8.5 million invested into building it.

The build, which started in March 2018, has involved an array of contractors overseen by the Bluestone Projects team – including a multitude of Welsh companies in line with Bluestone’s track record of supporting local suppliers and strengthening the Welsh economy.

The 7,000sqm area beneath the dome will become a new playground for Free Range Fun for Bluestone’s guests – including the breathtaking SkyWalk adventure course.

Bluestone CEO William McNamara said: “Serendome is a huge investment for us and underlines our commitment to Pembrokeshire and Welsh tourism and will be another exciting draw for the thousands of visitors who stay with us and experience Pembrokeshire every year.”

Serendome will be a hub for entertainment and at its heart will boast a 400-seat Amphitheatre, a new live music and performance venue in a unique setting.

A dazzling series of spectacular shows involving nationally recognised production companies are being meticulously planned for the Amphitheatre – with the first set to take place this November. Those who want to stay in the know can sign-up to be first to hear about the shows at www.bluestonewales.com/dayVIPs

Exciting new activities for guests include the impressive SkyWalk - a vertical adventure course like no other, built over seven towers and featuring 24 climbing stations.

With challenging moving elements, including a bicycle, the SkyWalk is split by difficulty including a Mini SkyWalk for young children, and a wheelchair friendly course. There will also be a series of Free Play areas too, designed to spark the imagination of children and adults alike.

A food terrace with a range of kiosks will serve light lunches, snacks and suppers, plus there will be a bar serving cocktails and mocktails.

Mr McNamara added: “The opening of Serendome is a culmination of many years of hard work by our passionate staff working in partnership with excellent design and construction companies where they created a space like no other in the UK.

“To see children and families finally enjoying its unique attractions is a joy. Our guests can enjoy the fresh air, sit on the grass and play under the trees, whatever the weather.”

Seren translates to ‘Star’ in English and the Serendome name reflects the feeling of limitless opportunity for discovery and adventure you get when you step into the extraordinary space.

The umbrella itself is made from EFTE, a unique material used in some of the world’s most ambitious architectural projects.