If you're thinking of visiting Wales in June, then you're in good luck as it's one of the best months to visit Wales
June in Wales brings long days and some of the best weather conditions, with little wind and warm temperatures. However, even the summer months in Wales can be unpredictable so there may still be rainy days. In June, the event calendar really ramps up including outdoor adventures and cultural events. Beat the summer holiday crowds by visiting earlier in the month if you can.
That's my summary but keep reading for a more detailed breakdown, including some of the top things to do and essentials to pack.
What Will the Weather Be Like?
June is the official start of summer in the UK
The average temperatures in Wales in June are around 14℃
You should check the weather forecast for any sign of heat waves. In 3 out of the last 5 years (2018, 2019, and 2022), the UK experienced heat waves in June, typically lasting between 3 and 5 days. These are likely to become more frequent as time goes on.
If you’re looking to explore the coastal regions, June is a great time to do so, as the average wind speeds drop down to around 15.9 kph. This is one of the lowest average wind speeds of the entire year, and as the wind normally whips up around the coast, June might be your best time to visit.
What Should I Expect?
June is a moderately busy month to visit Wales as it's the beginning of summer so the weather is good but the main school holidays have not yet started. This means that tourist attractions can still be very busy on weekends when the sun is out but weekdays are still very reasonable.
It’s a good time to visit Wales with the longer days, as once you get into July and August, the summer school holidays can make the popular spots very, very busy.
What to Pack
It might be Summer, but it’s still Summer in Wales. Ensure you pack layers so that you can adjust to the varying temperatures.
It's one of the driest months so remember to bring shorts and a t-shirt, but it's also a good idea to keep a lightweight raincoat on hand too as the weather can change quickly, especially if you'll be doing lots of outdoor activity.
The rising sea temperature also means that June can be a decent time to take a dip in the Irish Sea, so bring your swimwear and towels if heading to coastal destinations.
For more tips, see my full Wales packing list.
Best Things To Do in Wales in June
There are plenty of great things to do in Wales in June, from events to nature watching to uncovering historic towns from years gone by. Here are just a few of my favourites.
1. Go Dolphin Spotting in Cardigan Bay
One of the best places to spot dolphins, seals, and porpoises is in Cardigan Bay and June is a great month to do so.
I can recommend taking the dolphin spotting tour with A Bay To Remember, the above photo was captured on that tour where you can see how close they came to the boar.
The tour leaves from The Moorings near St. Dogmaels just outside of Cardigan. You’ll board a rib boat and head out around the bay to spot these beautiful animals. Your knowledgeable guide will tell you all about the area, the history of the bay, and how to spot the dolphins out in the wild.
2. Hike an Alternative Snowdon Route
In June, the main trails around all the major national parks are starting to get busy, especially on weekends when the weather is good. The children may not be finished for Summer yet, but there are plenty of daytrippers heading to Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa), Tryfan, or other famous peaks.
Climbing Snowdon is one of the top things to do in Snowdon, but the main route up, the Llanebris Path, gets crazy busy throughout summer. Instead, opt for one of the alternative routes up Wales' biggest mountain. They are more strenuous but it will be worth it. Still, be prepared for crowds at the top.
3. Kayak Along the River Wye
The River Wye in South Wales is a super great spot for kayaking due to the valley views and relatively smooth waters. Get your craft and launch from a number of points along the river, including Hay and Ross-on-Wye.
If you’re experienced, you can launch and paddle to your heart’s content. If you’re less experienced or need to hire a kayak, there are plenty of kayaking companies in the area where you can either hire a kayak, have a lesson, or go on a half-day excursion.
June’s great for kayaking as there’s plenty of fresh rain, the Hay festival is on, but the Wye Valley isn’t super busy with families yet.
4. Explore Aberystwyth
The warmer and less windy conditions make June a great time to explore Wales’ coastal towns and cities. Aberystwyth on the West Coast is a popular spot with tourists and students, thanks to the university and the seaside resort vibe. Wander the pier, stroll along the beach, and then enjoy some quality seafood and a pint in a local pub.
In June, many of the students will be finishing up their studies and heading home, so depending on when in June you visit, you might have the place all to yourself.
5. Discover Castles and Small-Town Charm in Beaumaris
If you’re after small-town charm with a good dose of history, head to the town of Beaumaris on the Isle of Anglesey. Home to one of the most intriguing castles in Wales, Beaumaris is known as the most beautiful castle that was never built.
It sits in a town that’s a wonderful blend of Georgian, Victorian, and Medieval architecture, filled with independent shops, pubs, and cafes. Spend a day wandering around, and don’t forget to check out the ice cream shop - it’s legendary!
Find out more about the top things to do on the isle of Anglesey.
6. Hang Out With Puffins on Skomer
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June is an ideal month to check out Wales’s wonderful nature, and if you’re in the beautiful Pembrokeshire area, you’ll want to board a boat to Skomer. This small island off the coast is home to South Britain’s largest colonies of puffins. It’s covered in them. Skomer is a protected nature reserve.
April to July marks the official puffin breeding season, so the population of the island congregates en masse. You can have your pick of tours out to Skomer and spend some time on the island, seeing the puffins up close. You can also sometimes spot dolphins, porpoises, and seals from the boat and the island, so keep your eyes peeled!
Events in June in 2023
Hay Festival - 25th May - 4th June 2023
Urdd Eisteddfod - 29th May - 3th June 2023
Out Wild - 9th - 12th June 2023.
Man v Horse (a literal race between people and horses) - 10th June 2023
The Slateman Triathalon - 10th-11th June 2023
Published: 16 February 2023