Wales enjoys a temperate maritime climate—mild, wet winters and cool, wet summers—shaped by the Atlantic Ocean, the Gulf Stream (North Atlantic Drift), and prevailing westerly winds.
| Region | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Coastal lowlands (Cardiff, Swansea, Pembrokeshire) | Milder winters, cooler summers, highest rainfall, fewer frosts. |
| Snowdonia & Brecon Beacons | High rainfall (3,000+ mm on windward slopes), persistent snow in winter, strong winds, rare summer heat. |
| Rain-shadow valleys (e.g., upper Wye, Usk) | Drier, warmer summers, colder winter nights, frost pockets. |
| South Wales Valleys | Urban heat island effect; slightly warmer, less snow than hills. |
Wales' climate is rarely extreme but consistently damp—pack a good rain jacket and embrace the green landscapes it nurtures.