When is the best time to visit North Wales?

Wales is a captivating little country, with awe-inspiring mountain landscapes that frequently draw comparisons to the likes of New Zealand and beaches glorious enough to rival any sandy stretch of Cornwall. North Wales is an even smaller slice of paradise, with world-renowned mountains, award-winning beaches and alpine valleys giving way to dense forests of pine and ancient oak. Such varied geography in a relatively small area is down to the glacial movements of the ice age, carving out craggy valleys and levelling vast plateaus. As a result, those who choose to visit North Wales are greeted by an endless amount of things to enjoy. In one day you could wake up with a refreshing dip in a glacial lake surrounded by mountains, before spending your afternoon on a sprawling beach of soft golden sand – stopping to marvel over ancient castles on the way. 

We might be biased, but we think there is no ‘best’ time to visit North Wales. A land of great contrast and varied terrain, there are lots of things to do in any season. Granted though, some seasons are better for different things – for example you probably won’t be hitting the beach for a BBQ in January (but never say never!) 

Below, we explore the different seasons in North Wales, and some of the most popular things to do during each. 

The different seasons: Things to do in North Wales

Spring / Gwanwyn 

Pronounced “gwanwin,” spring in North Wales is a time when the country leaps to life – lambs frolic in fields fringed with daffodils and lanes brim with bluebells. It is a popular time for blustery beach walks, waterfall hunting and bird watching – from April onwards, you can spot puffins returning from the open ocean to breed on Puffin Island, or Ynys Seiriol in the Menai Strait, between Anglesey and the mainland. Another must-do in late spring is the laburnum arch at Bodnant Garden – a 55-meter long arch that puts on a vivid yellow bloom for just 10-14 days each year.   

Summer / Haf 

The weather is at its best for all outdoor activities from June to August in North Wales. This is a great time for walking sections of the Wales Coast Path around Anglesy and the Llŷn Peninsula, or enjoying the endless attractions on offer at Llandudno – a Victorian seaside town complete with a pier, toboggan run and cable car. Another great place to visit during the summer months is Portmeirion, an Italianate seaside village designed by famous architect Sir Clough Williams-Ellis.  

Autumn / Hydref

Hydref (pronounced “hud-rev”) is a spectacular time to visit North Wales. The mountains and forests transform into a kaleidoscope of colour, and you can still enjoy days of really good weather in early September – perfect if you want to visit the beaches and lakes without the summer holiday crowds. There are also plenty of food and craft festivals during this time, with the ancient Conwy Honey Festival having origins that reach back over 700 years. The pretty town of Llangollen (which is also home to the huge International Musical Eisteddfodd) puts on a wonderful food festival in October, complete with pumpkin carving speed tests, cookery demonstrations and countless stalls from local artisans. 

Winter / Gaeaf

Winter in North Wales is the best time for experiencing the romance of empty beaches, clear skies and cosy, inviting pubs with roaring log fires – but be warned, you will need to bring along your waterproof and wellies. Snowdonia National Park is a recognised Dark Sky Reserve, making it a fantastic destination for truly magical stargazing. 

Visit North Wales with Oyster Holiday Cottages  

Experience North Wales like a local when you stay with us at Oyster Holiday Cottages. Our hand-picked selection of charming holiday accommodation offers a range of cottages in seriously special locations throughout Snowdonia, Anglesey and the Llŷn Peninsula. Whether you’re looking for a blissful bolthole by the sea or a large-group property with countryside views, we’ve got just the place in mind. 
We’re on hand to make your trip as memorable as possible with a range of concierge services – we can help organise a sunset picnic on one of Wales’ most romantic beaches (which also happens to be the resting place of the Patron Saint of Lovers) or we can elevate your accommodation with portable hot tub hire, paddleboards and bikes. Simply get in touch with us to build the North Wales break of your dreams.