Weather in Cardiff

Planning your day or trip to Cardiff? In this section, you will find the most up-to-date weather information, including detailed forecasts and visual charts.

The climate in Cardiff, the capital of Wales, can be described as temperate maritime. This means there are no temperature extremes here: summers are usually warm but not sweltering, and winters are mild without severe frosts. The weather is generally changeable, which is typical for the UK, and can shift several times throughout the day.

There are four distinct seasons in Cardiff. Summer, covering the period from June to August, offers the warmest days with an average temperature of about 15-17°C. Winter, from December to February, is quite mild, and average temperatures usually hover around 5-6°C. Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) are transitional seasons with gradual temperature changes. A characteristic feature of the climate is frequent rainfall throughout the year. Although, according to the provided data, the monthly precipitation amount in millimeters is small (2-4 mm), the number of days with precipitation is quite significant – from 12 to 18 per month. This indicates frequent, but usually light rains or drizzle.

Thus, when planning a trip to Cardiff, it is worth being prepared for changeable weather and carrying an umbrella or a light raincoat at almost any time of the year. The most comfortable time to visit in terms of temperature is considered to be the period from May to September, when average daytime temperatures are most pleasant for walking and sightseeing. However, even during these months, the chance of rainfall remains.

The temperature regime in Cardiff is characterized by moderation throughout the year, without sharp spikes in heat or severe frosts. The annual range of average temperatures varies from 5.2°C in January, which is the coldest month, to 16.7°C in July – the peak of summer warmth. August is also very warm, with an average temperature of 16.5°C. Thus, the climate here can be called mild and predictable, making the city attractive to visit in different seasons, albeit with an allowance for frequent rainfall.

The summer months in Cardiff, from June to August, bring pleasantly warm weather, ideal for walking and exploring the city. Average daily highs in July and August reach about 19-20°C, while nights remain comfortable with temperatures averaging 13-14°C. Winter, covering the period from December to February, is characterized by coolness but without harsh cold. Average daytime temperatures in January, the coldest month, hold around 7.5°C, while nighttime temperatures drop to an average of 2.9°C. Frosts are possible, but strong and prolonged freezes are untypical for Cardiff. Moderate fluctuations between day and night temperatures are observed throughout the year, usually within 4-7°C, providing a fairly comfortable transition from daytime warmth to nighttime cool.

The precipitation pattern in Cardiff is characterized by its regularity throughout the year rather than sharp seasonal fluctuations. The total monthly rainfall amount is small and remains stable in the range of 2 to 4 mm. This means that instead of periods of heavy downpours, the city is typified by frequent but light rains or drizzle. This is confirmed by the large number of days with precipitation – from 12 to 18 monthly, making an umbrella or raincoat a useful accessory at any time of the year.

Analyzing the annual course of precipitation, it can be noted that March and October stand out as the months with the highest number of rainy days – 18 days in each, while the amount of precipitation in these months, as well as in September, November, and December, reaches the maximum for the city of 4 mm. On the other hand, April and June are considered the least rainy months, counting 12 days with precipitation each and a minimum rainfall amount of 2 mm (May also has 2 mm of precipitation, but 13 rainy days). Nevertheless, even in these relatively "dry" periods, the probability of catching rain remains high. In winter, precipitation usually falls in the form of cold rain; heavy snowfalls are not characteristic of Cardiff due to the small total volume of falling precipitation.

When planning a trip to Cardiff, it is important to remember its changeable maritime weather. Regardless of the season, the key is to be prepared for frequent, though usually not heavy, rains and possible wind. Therefore, a waterproof jacket, which will also protect against wind gusts, or a light raincoat, as well as a compact umbrella, should become your faithful companions. Given that the average number of rainy days per month ranges from 12 to 18, comfortable waterproof shoes for walking around the city will also be very handy. The principle of layering in clothing is the best approach for Cardiff, allowing you to easily adapt to temperature changes and weather conditions throughout the day.

In summer (June-August), when the average temperature is a pleasant 15-17°C, you will need light items such as T-shirts and trousers. However, do not forget to take a light jacket or sweater for cool evenings or in case of rain. On sunny days, sunscreen and sunglasses may be useful. In winter (December-February), the weather is significantly cooler, with an average temperature of about 5-6°C. At this time of year, you cannot do without a warm jacket (preferably waterproof), sweaters, a hat, a scarf, and gloves. In spring and autumn, the weather can be particularly unpredictable, so layering and protection from rain remain top priorities when packing your suitcase.