THE BEST TIME TO VISIT WALES (UK) FOR AN EPIC TRIP!

Planning a trip to Wales in the United Kingdom? But just when exactly is the best time to visit Wales? That depends on several factors, like weather, reason for your visit and your budget.

 

But don’t worry. Whatever your perfect trip looks like, we are here to help you.

This post looks at the pros and cons of each season in Wales and the weather to expect each month. We then explore dates of the main events such as the Hay Festival, International Musical Eisteddfod and Six Nations.

Lastly, we consider the best time to visit depending on what you like doing. Be it sitting on a white-sand beach, exploring castles or hiking up mountains.

This will help you make an informative decision on when is “your” best time to visit Wales for an epic trip.

So where do you start when there are so many things to do in Wales?

To begin deciding when the best month to visit Wales is, here are a few basic questions, the answers to which will help point you in the right direction.

• Are there any top festivals/events you want to experience?
• What type of trip do you want? Do you like road trips, castles, cities, hiking, outdoor activities or beaches?
• What are your top experiences and must-see sights?
• Are you restricted by budget or school holidays?

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WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT WALES (UK)

 

While a trip is great any month of the year, the best time to visit Wales is during spring (late March to June) and fall (September to October).

With a temperate climate rarely experiencing extremes in weather or temperatures, it is impossible to predict the weather from one year to the next. Expect the possibility of rain showers whenever you go.

But I’m sure the weather isn’t your overriding reason to visit Wales.

Weather-wise, June to September are the warmest months for camping and beach holidays. To enjoy warm days whilst avoiding the crowds, visit in April-May and September-October.

To experience the widest range of outdoor activities, head to Wales between June and October. These offer the driest and warmest days.

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WALES TOURIST TRAVEL SEASONS

 

HIGH SEASON IN WALES (July-August)

 

PROS: July and August offer the warmest weather of the year, with long daylight hours for outdoor activities. There are many exciting festivals to attend, from LLangollen’s International Musical Eisteddfod to the Royal Welsh Show.

CONS: Summer is peak season for school holidays. With large numbers of visitors bookings are essential. Accommodation prices are at a premium, especially in the 3 National Parks and near the coast.

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SHOULDER SEASON IN WALES (April-June | September-October)

PROS: These months are outside of school holidays, offering less visitors and prices lower than the peak of Summertime. April to June are the driest months of the year.

CONS: Easter marks the start of the tourist season and opening of public attractions such as castles & gardens. While bank holidays see a hike in prices, October tends to be one of the wettest months of the year.

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LOW SEASON IN WALES (November-March)

PROS: Expect to find fewer visitors and cheaper accommodation prices outside of peak holidays.

CONS: Some attractions and accommodations close for the winter. Peak prices are charged during Christmas and New Year. Expect rain in November with the coldest weather in December, January & February. Snow, especially on higher ground with inland temperatures around 0°C

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BEST TIME OF YEAR TO VISIT WALES

 

Here is an overview of visiting Wales in Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter, and what to expect during each of them. 

WALES IN SPRING (MARCH-MAY)

Spring signifies the start of landscapes coming to life after the long winter. Woodlands and hedgerows spring into life, while spring-flowering daffodils and tulips are in full bloom. Fields are dotted with newborn lambs and the trees are out in blossom. Verdant landscapes are at their most glorious AND you are often blessed with sunny days.

Here are some of the benefits of visiting Wales in Spring:

• Temperatures start rising slightly in March, making it a great time for nature walks.
• Wildflowers and bluebells cover the ground.
• Aside from Easter, early Spring offers lower prices for budget-conscious travellers. Tourist numbers only start to rise in May, so you can get away from the crowds.
• Daylight hours increase and there can be blue skies and warm weather in April.
• April and May are great months for hiking and outdoor activities.
• Nesting birds such as Guillemots, Auks and Razorbills arrive for the Summer. They can be spotted on clifftops along the coast.

Here are some of the downsides of visiting Wales in Spring:

• Easter and May Bank Holidays need to be booked in advance and are particularly busy times. This equates to crowds and more cars on the roads.
• Some attractions may not open until Easter.

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WALES IN SUMMER (JUNE-AUGUST)

Welsh summers are warm and sunny and by far the most popular season to visit the country. Gardens are bursting with coloured flowers and there is a relaxed atmosphere in the air.

Here are some of the benefits of visiting Wales in Summer

• Waters around the South Coast warm up to around 24°C, making for perfect beach holidays along the Pembrokeshire Coast.
• July is the warmest month. Wildlife tours are popular and dolphins, humpback whales and seals can be seen frolicking off the coast.
• With the longest day around 20th June every year, you have maximum daylight hours to hike and explore and can travel further on road trips. Additionally, school holidays are yet to start, making tourist attractions quieter and hotel prices slightly lower than peak season (July / August).
• June is the perfect weather for visiting Snowdonia National Park and climbing Snowdon.
• Summer is perfect camping weather and festivals like the Green Man are hosted.

Here are some of the downsides of visiting Wales in Summer:

• Popular places such as Breacon Beacons, Snowdonia and Pembrokeshire are extremely busy and crowded. Parking spaces are hard to find and tour buses stop at major tourist attractions.
• Summer is peak season with premium hotel and accommodation prices.
• Accommodation and ferry tickets have to be booked in advance.

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WALES IN AUTUMN (September-November)

September marks the end of Summer but can still produce clear blue skies and warm sunshine.

Here are some of the benefits of visiting Wales in Autumn:

• September is a great time to visit as schools are back, tourist numbers are down and temperatures can still be warm.
• Forests come alive with reds, oranges and yellow hues and the scenery is stunning. Moors are dotted with purple heather and yellow gorse.
• Still great hiking, walking and cycling weather.
• Great surfing weather with decent swells and warm seas.

Here are some of the downsides of visiting Wales in Autumn:

• Temperatures start dropping and rain can be frequent, along with dampness and drizzle.
• Ferry crossings revert to winter timetables.
• Shorter days in late autumn bring harsh winds, rain and early snowfalls on higher peaks.
• November brings rain to all parts of the country, possible flooding as rivers swell, and temperatures in single-digits.
• Some attractions could close for the winter.

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WALES IN WINTER (December-February)

While this is the coldest time to visit Wales, village pubs warm you with roaring fires, and the excitement of Christmas is in the air. Mornings are frosty throughout the country.

Here are some of the benefits of visiting Wales in Winter:

• December is filled with festive events, shopping, food and Christmas cheer. Cardiff and other cities, have ice-skating rinks, fun fairs and winter markets.
• Winter walks are still possible with a rain jacket and hood.
• Winter drives provide plenty of photogenic scenery.
• Aside from Christmas and New Year, accommodations are cheaper.

Here are some of the downsides of visiting Wales in Winter:

• January and February are the coldest months, with average temperatures of around 0°C inland, and snow likely especially on higher ground.
• Days are short, dark and can feel bleak after the festive season.
• Many attractions are closed for the season.

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BEST TIME TO VISIT WALES

 

BEST TIME TO VISIT WALES FOR SIGHTSEEING

 

 

For sightseeing in Wales you want decent weather, plenty of daylight, and fewer tourists to interrupt the views. That’s generally mid-April through June or September to October.

BEST TIME TO VISIT WALES FOR HIKING

 

With over 25,000 miles of public rights of way to amble, Wales offers walkers dream terrain. The best months to avoid crowds, rain and shorter days, aim for Spring and Autumn.

For a challenging hike of the highest mountain in England and Wales, head to Snowdonia National Park. Try your hand at Mount Snowdon or Cadair Idris. Alternatively, Pen Y Fan in Brecon Beacons National Park offers a craggy terrain and sublime vistas.

Don’t forget Pembrokeshire Coastal Path which hugs the sea cliffs. Enjoy walking any time of the year, however remember paths will be extremely busy in July and August.

BEST TIME TO GO SEA KAYAKING IN WALES

 

Overall, sea kayaking is best during May to October.

In May and June hillsides and headlands are a riot of colour with wildflower and summer flowers. On rock cliff ledges the likes of Guillemots and Auks find ideal positions for nesting and fishing.

In August and September, water temperature reaches optimum levels and Atlantic grey seals have their pups, making it a great opportunity for sea kayakers.

By October and November diminishing daylight means an earlier start but you could be rewarded by sightings of porpoises, dolphins and seals.

BEST TIME TO SEE PUFFINS IN WALES

 

Puffins make their home on islands and coastal clifftops from April to July, before heading out to sea. The largest numbers can be spotted from mid- June to mid-July, when chicks are being fed.

Where to find Puffins:

• South Stack Cliffs, Holyhead
• Skomer and Skokholm Islands

BEST TIME TO VISIT CASTLES

 

For an uncrowded experience, visit early in the morning or late afternoon. Any time of year is a good time to visit, however they will be less crowded in the low season between November and April.

 

BEST TIME TO VISIT BEACHES IN WALES

 

June to September offer the best options for lying on the beach or enjoying camping in good weather. July and August offer the warmest temperatures and you should book your accommodation as far in advance as possible.

Tenby, the Gower Peninsula and Pembrokeshire all have spectacular beaches.

BEST TIME TO VISIT WALES FOR OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

 

June to October offer the best chance of dry weather for a range of outdoor pursuits. From walking, mountain biking, rock climbing, horse riding to zip-lining and coasteering, Wales has it all.

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WALES EVENTS AND FESTIVALS

 

Whether it’s a top event or a favored local festival, Wales has a yearly events calendar packed full of fun attractions. Here is our list per month of special events in Wales you may not want to miss:

WALES EVENTS & FESTIVALS IN JANUARY

 

SATURNALIA

Llanwrtyd Wells is the venue for this eccentric annual festival of Roman drinking, food and fun.

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WALES EVENTS & FESTIVALS IN FEBRUARY

 

SIX NATIONS RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP

Wales is a nation of rugby lovers, and this is the highlight in the rugby calendar. Avid supporters pack into pubs to cheer on their nation, with matches stretching into March.

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WALES EVENTS & FESTIVALS IN MARCH

 

SAINT DAVID’S DAY

The Patron saint of Wales, a Welsh bishop during the 6th century, is celebrated across the country on the 1st March. Children dress in Welsh national costume, Welsh flags are flown and street parades take place.

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WALES EVENTS & FESTIVALS IN APRIL

 

LAUGHARNE WEEKEND

In April, the town of Laugharne in West Wales hosts a small-scale literary and arts festival. Featured writers, comedians and musicians all take to small stages during this 3-day weekend.

WONDERWOOL WALES

In the last weekend of April, 3 halls of the Royal Welsh Showground, Builth Wells are packed with over 220 exhibitors of wool products.

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WALES EVENTS & FESTIVALS IN MAY

 

HAY FESTIVAL

Held over 10 days in late May, this literature and arts festival is every book-lovers dream. Hay-on-Wye bulges at the seams with literary types.

URDD NATIONAL EISTEDDFOD

This performing arts competition, held on the last weekend in May, alternates between venues in North and South Wales. It is one of the largest youth festivals in Europe.

VICTORIAN EXTRAVAGANZA

The Victorian seaside town of Llandudno in North Wales comes alive over the early May Bank Holiday. Adults dress in Victorian costume and walk in a daily parade, while bands and funfairs join in the fun.

ST DAVID’S CATHEDRAL FESTIVAL

The cathedral provides an ideal setting for classical recitals and concerts over 10 days at the end of May.

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WALES EVENTS & FESTIVALS IN JUNE

 

GREAT WELSH BEER & CIDER FESTIVAL

You have 3 days to sample as many beers as you can, some Welsh, from nearly 200 different brews! Located in Cardiff International Arena.

GREGYNOG FESTIVAL

Gregynog Hall and surroundings in Powys, hosts this classical music festival, and has been doing since 1933.

THREE PEAKS YACHT RACE

This epic race from Barmouth to Fort William is no mean feat. Crew members endure running up the highest peaks in Wales, England and Scotland, as well as fell running, cycling and sailing.

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WALES EVENTS & FESTIVALS IN JULY

 

INTERNATIONAL MUSICAL EISTEDDFOD

Held over a week at Llangollen’s Royal International Pavilion. Folk singers, choirs, dancers and well-known singers perform in this festival of music.

ROYAL WELSH SHOW

Wales’ largest livestock and farm show is held at Royal Welsh Showground, Builth Wells. A great day out with hundreds of stallholders, prize animals, local produce and displays.

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WALES EVENTS & FESTIVALS IN AUGUST

 

NATIONAL EISTEDDFOD OF WALES

A celebration of Welsh music, culture and poetry. Alternating between North and South Wales, there’s pageantry, crafts and lots of fun.

BRECON FRINGE FESTIVAL

Listen to live music in several pubs around the Brecon Beacons.

GREEN MAN FESTIVAL

Set in Brecon Beacons, this favourite four-day festival features alternative rock and folk music.

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WALES EVENTS & FESTIVALS IN SEPTEMBER

 

BRECON BEAST

Held in the Brecon Beacons, this epic 44 or 68-mile mountain-bike course will make you sweat.

ABERGAVENNY FOOD FESTIVAL

This premier food festival is a gastronomical delight with celebrity chiefs showcasing local produce.

FESTIVAL NO 6

A weekend of fun, music and comedy fill the streets of colourful Portmeirion.

TENBY ARTS FESTIVAL

A great Autumnal festival in the seaside town of Tenby. Features lively literary, music and theatre events.

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WALES EVENTS & FESTIVALS IN OCTOBER

 

SWN

The best of new music in venues around Cardiff, showcased over four days.

DYLAN THOMAS FESTIVAL

Starting on his birthday, 27th October this Dylan Thomas themed event celebrates his work. Enjoy music, readings and other themed events.

SWANSEA FESTIVAL OF MUSIC AND THE ARTS

The city of Swansea shares 3 weeks of jazz, opera, ballet concerts plus art events.

GWLEDD CONWY FEAST

A great location in this walled town for music and fine food, over a weekend in October.

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WALES EVENTS & FESTIVALS IN NOVEMBER

 

MID-WALES BEER FESTIVAL

A 10-day festival held in Llanwrtyd Wells. Features the Real Ale Wobble of mountain biking and drinking, over several miles.

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WALES EVENTS & FESTIVALS IN DECEMBER

 

CARDIFF’S WINTER WONDERLAND

All things Christmas including ice-skating, Santa’s grotto, fun fair and other festive fun for families.

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DECIDING THE BEST TIME TO VISIT WALES CONCLUSION

 

I hope that this article gave you some insight into choosing the best time to visit Wales. Remember Wales’ weather is always unpredictable but this won’t stop you having a fantastic time.

By now you should be able to choose the best time to visit wales for you – meaning you are one step closer to planning your trip to Wales!

READ MORE ABOUT WALES:

• Discover 14 Top Things To Do In Llangollen, Wales
• How To Roadtrip Wales’ Stunning Brecon Beacons
• Visiting Beautiful Portmeirion Village In Wales Is Colourful
• Snowdonia Driving Route For One Of The Most Scenic Drives In Wales
• Valle Crucis Abbey:Visit These Evocative Welsh Ruins

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