To announce the start of the summer high season, June has something going on almost every day in every region of the country. A lively atmosphere pervades in the villages, towns, and cities, and out in the countryside, be that up in the hills or along the coast, it is getting crowded. Some of the sunniest weather of the year makes June even easier to enjoy.
Ireland in June: A Comprehensive Guide
Ireland, the Emerald Isle, is a land of captivating beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. While not geographically expansive enough to boast distinct regional weather patterns, Ireland experiences a generally pleasant climate in June, making it a popular time for travelers. June often presents the most appealing weather of the year, characterized by ample sunshine, mild to warm temperatures, and comparatively less rainfall than other months.
Killarney & Southwestern Ireland in June
June truly showcases the splendor of Killarney and Southwestern Ireland. The landscape explodes with vibrant floral displays, adorning everything from meticulously manicured city parks to the rugged slopes of majestic mountains. The abundance of sunshine amplifies this beauty, with June offering more sunlight hours than any other time of the year in this region. Rainfall is relatively low, with an average of only 20 days experiencing some form of precipitation, making it the driest period of the year. While average daily high temperatures reach a comfortable 61°F (16°C), this region can experience slightly cooler temperatures compared to the north and east of the country during June. This makes for a particularly pleasant climate for outdoor activities and exploration.
Dublin & Eastern Ireland in June
In Dublin and Eastern Ireland, June is considered a hot month by Irish standards. Average high temperatures reach 63°F (17°C), while lows hover around 50°F (10°C). However, rainfall is higher than one might expect for a summer month, with approximately 2.75 inches (70 mm) anticipated throughout June. Despite the potential for rain, the region offers a plethora of attractions and activities to enjoy.
Belfast & Northern Ireland in June
Belfast and Northern Ireland also experience warm temperatures in June, with average highs of 63°F (17°C) and lows of 48°F (9°C). While pleasant, it is not the driest month in Belfast, with an expected rainfall of around 2.75 inches (70 mm). This region is known for its stunning coastal scenery and historical sites, making it an enticing destination regardless of the weather.
Crowds & Costs During June in Ireland
June marks the beginning of the high season in Ireland, extending through August. This period coincides with increased travel due to summer holidays, resulting in higher costs for accommodations, tours, and other travel-related expenses. While prices may not yet be at their peak compared to July and August, it is crucial to book accommodations and tours well in advance to secure availability and potentially benefit from lower rates.
Recommended Destinations in June
Killarney & Southwestern Ireland: A Region of Unparalleled Beauty
The entire Killarney and Southwestern Ireland region is ideal for a visit in June. The relatively dry and sunny weather beckons travelers to explore the outdoors, revealing Ireland’s natural charm at its finest. This remote part of Ireland offers an array of activities and attractions.
Co. Kerry is an excellent starting point, offering breathtaking mountain and coastal hiking trails on its renowned southwest peninsulas. Explore the Kerry Way on the Iveragh Peninsula, the Dingle Way on the Dingle Peninsula, or the Beara Way on the Beara Peninsula (shared with Co. Cork). Embark on a boat trip to the rocky Skellig Islands near Dingle or venture to the otherworldly and traditional Aran Islands near Galway.
Consider spending time in Cork, where major events like the Cork Summer Show take place. For a smaller, vibrant town, Doolin in Co. Clare hosts a lively music festival. While the peak surfing season in the Donegal region might be over, Bundoran still offers a fantastic surf, sea, and music festival in June.
Dublin & Eastern Ireland: Escaping the City
This June, it is advisable to venture out of Dublin and explore the countryside. A prime choice south of Dublin is the Wicklow Way, offering delightful hiking trails and a selection of attractions. Discover picturesque villages like Enniskerry, stunning waterfalls like Powerscourt Waterfall on the Powerscourt Estate, and wooded hills and monastic ruins like Glendalough Abbey.
Beautiful sandy beaches grace the coast; some, such as Loughshinney, are located within Co. Dublin and are easily accessible from the city. Others, like the divine Rosslare Strand, are located near the ferry arrival point from Wales.
Belfast & Northern Ireland: Embracing the Outdoors
Focus on the Great Outdoors in June when visiting Belfast and Northern Ireland. Start with the Causeway Coast, home to the UNESCO-listed Giant’s Causeway, a captivating expanse of interconnected basalt columns.
Explore the mythical Rathlin Island, where Scottish leader Robert the Bruce sought refuge, or hike to Malin Head, the country’s northernmost point. For a longer trek, consider the Ulster Way, a 636-mile (1,024-km) loop traversing much of Northern Ireland and one of the UK’s longest and most scenic hiking routes.
What to Do in Ireland in June
Killarney & Southwestern Ireland: Hiking and Exploration
Hiking is a central activity in June. Experience the Dingle Way or explore the Wild Atlantic Way, stopping at remote locations. Cycling is particularly enjoyable in June; a self-guided cycling tour around the Ring of Kerry is a great option.
Further north, the serene lake and emerald-green hills surrounding Lough Gill inspired WB Yeats and will likely enchant you. Hike here or kayak on the lake. Co. Donegal hosts its surf, sea, and music festival this month, while Sligo boasts the highest concentration of megalithic monuments in Ireland. A walk to see Carrowkeel and Carrowmore is well worth the effort.
Dublin & Eastern Ireland: Hiking, Beaches, and History
Lace up your hiking boots for exceptional walks on the Wicklow Way, showcasing Eastern Ireland’s finest landscapes and starting from Dublin’s southern suburbs. Explore the region’s stunning sandy beaches, found along the eastern coast.
This region, known as ‘Ireland’s Ancient East,’ offers insight into Ireland’s history. Visit the Irish National Heritage Park near Wicklow, presenting 9,000 years of the country’s past in an open-air setting. Explore ancient sites such as the megalithic tomb of Newgrange, in Co. Meath.
Belfast & Northern Ireland: Coastal Hikes and More
Hiking highlights the beauty of Northern Ireland this month. The Causeway Coast is dramatic, but the Ulster Way reveals this region’s scenery, taking hikers to mountains, forests, lakes, and the coastline. For a shorter walk, brave the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge connecting Carrickarede to the mainland.
Consider visiting locations from the TV series “Game of Thrones.” Explore the Downhill Strand in Co. Derry and Tollymore Forest Park in Co. Down. Sea kayaking is enjoyable this month, and Northern Ireland offers the North Coast Sea Kayak Trail between Co. Londonderry and Co. Antrim, passing the Giant’s Causeway.
Events in June
Live at the Botanic Gardens, Belfast: Live music concerts take place throughout June at the Botanic Gardens, in Belfast’s newest festival, attracting notable artists like Van Morrison.
Doolin Folk Festival: Doolin in Co. Clare hosts one of the best folk festivals of the month, during the first half of June.
Seafest: Celebrating maritime heritage, with live music, this festival takes place on Cork city waterfront in mid-June.
Cork Summer Show, Curraheen: Held in Curraheen near Cork, this major event is Ireland’s largest and oldest agricultural show, celebrating gardening and regional produce, in mid-June.
Sea Sessions: A surf, sea, and music festival in Bundoran, Co. Donegal. Bundoran is known for its surf spots.
Traveling in Ireland in June: Itinerary Ideas
Consider these itinerary ideas for your trip to Ireland in June:
Hiking and Island-Hopping in Cork and Kerry – 7 Days: Start in Baltimore, then hike along the coastline, climb the stone steps of Skellig Michael, and visit the Blasket Islands. Encounter local wildlife and experience the culture along the Cork and Kerry Way.
Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Adventure – 12 Days: This guided tour explores Ireland’s quieter western and northwestern sites. Over 12 days, you’ll hike, boat, kayak, learn history, see live music, and visit a Gaelic-speaking island, starting in Dublin.
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