December is dark, chilly, and wet in Wales, but Christmas brings festive sparkle, fairy lights, and markets to towns, cities, villages, and manor houses across the country. Up in the mountains, you might find snow dusting the highest peaks, and if you venture to the coast when the weather cheers up you’ll find it blissfully quiet.
## Discovering Wales in December: A Comprehensive Guide
December in Wales presents a unique travel experience, characterized by both festive cheer and the raw beauty of the Welsh landscape in its winter attire. It’s a time of contrasts, where bustling city centers meet the serene solitude of the mountains and coastline. To truly appreciate Wales in December, it’s important to understand the weather, anticipate the crowds, and know where to seek out the best experiences.
**The December Weather in Wales**
The Welsh weather in December can be described as reliably wet. With an average of 22 rainy days throughout the month, packing appropriately is crucial. Think in terms of layers: thermal base layers, fleece jackets, and a waterproof outer shell are essential for staying warm and dry. An umbrella is a must for exploring towns and cities, but for venturing into the wilder regions, such as the national parks, full-on waterproofs and wellington boots are highly recommended. The rain in the mountains can quickly transition to sleet and snow, creating potentially hazardous conditions. Along the coast, be prepared for strong gales, high waves, and dramatic storms that can add a touch of drama to the scenery.
Temperature-wise, you can expect lows around 37°F (3°C) and highs of 44°F (7°C). However, these figures can be misleading, as the dampness can significantly amplify the chill factor, making it feel much colder than the thermometer suggests. **Cardiff**, benefiting from its more sheltered location, tends to be a touch warmer, with lows of 41°F (5°C) and highs of 48°F (9°C). In contrast, the exposed and often blustery peaks of **Snowdonia** and the **Brecon Beacons** can feel dramatically colder. Temperatures here regularly dip below freezing, and occasional snowfall is common. It’s crucial to remember that remote roads can be susceptible to flooding, and single-track mountain passes can become treacherously slippery due to ice and snow. Always check weather conditions and road closures before embarking on any journey into these areas. Safety should always be your top priority.
**Navigating Crowds and Costs**
December is a month when towns and cities across Wales embrace the festive spirit. Consequently, expect to encounter busy roads and car parks, especially on weekends, as people flock to do their Christmas shopping. The atmosphere can be vibrant and exciting, but patience and careful planning are essential. Rural areas and the coast, on the other hand, offer a welcome respite from the crowds. If you manage to time your visit to coincide with a break in the weather, you may find yourself enjoying the hills, mountains, and beaches with few other people around. This sense of solitude and connection with nature can be incredibly rewarding.
Regarding costs, you might find some favorable deals on flights and accommodation earlier in the month, before the peak season kicks in. However, prices tend to spike during the school holidays and over the Christmas and New Year period, as demand increases and many accommodations become fully booked well in advance. Booking early is therefore highly recommended if you plan to travel during these peak times.
**Destination Ideas for December**
December presents an excellent opportunity to explore Wales’ towns and cities. Take advantage of gallery days, enjoy leisurely lunches in cozy cafés, and immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere of the Christmas markets. **Cardiff’s** Victorian arcades, adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations, are particularly enchanting.
For those seeking a more tranquil experience, consider retreating to rural regions such as **Snowdonia** and the **Brecon Beacons**. Picture yourself nestled indoors by a Christmas tree, with a roaring fire crackling in the hearth, while gazing out at the misty mountains. These areas offer a chance to unwind and connect with the natural beauty of Wales. The coastlines of **Gower**, **Pembrokeshire**, and **Anglesey** experience a lull in activity during December, offering a peaceful escape. While not every establishment will be open, you should be able to find a charming B&B with available rooms. And when the sun breaks through the clouds, the beaches transform into wild and glorious landscapes, perfect for invigorating walks.
**Activities to Enjoy in December**
When the December rains sweep across the country, seeking shelter in one of Wales’ excellent museums and galleries is a great option. **Cardiff’s** National Museum offers a diverse collection, ranging from fine art to geology and natural history. If you’re traveling with children, they’ll be captivated by the dinosaur exhibits. The National Library in coastal **Aberystwyth** is not merely a repository of priceless books; it also hosts a compelling series of exhibitions.
Christmas markets and fairs flourish in some of Wales’ most picturesque market towns, from **Crickhowell** in the Brecon Beacons to bookshop-filled **Hay-on-Wye**. Cardiff presents a larger and more bustling scene, making it an ideal destination for those seeking the energy of a Christmas market and Winter Wonderland.
While the hills and moors can be boggy during this time of year, with the right gear, you can still enjoy invigorating walks on favorable-weather days in regions such as **Snowdonia** and the **Brecon Beacons**. Be sure to wear appropriate footwear and clothing, and always check the weather forecast before setting out.
**Notable December Events**
* **Llandudno Santa Dash:** Witness a festive spectacle as runners dressed as Santa participate in this 3-mile (5-km) dash along the seafront of **Llandudno** in North Wales, typically held on the first Saturday in December.
* **Cardiff Christmas Market:** Immerse yourself in the festive ambiance of Cardiff’s Christmas market, which features stalls offering crafts, mulled wine, and twinkling lights. The market traditionally occupies St John Street, Working Street, Trinity Street, and the Hayes from mid-November to December 23.
* **Cardiff Winter Wonderland:** From mid-November to December 24, this winter festival transforms Cardiff, bringing ice skating and an ice walk to Cardiff Castle, and an ice bar, an Alpine-style village, and a funfair to City Hall.
* **Christmas in Swansea Bay:** **Swansea** joins in the festive celebrations with its own array of attractions, including parades, a waterfront fairground, ice-skating, and a Christmas market, typically running from mid-November to late December.
* **Luminate Wales, Margam Country Park and Castle:** Experience the magic of a festive light trail as it illuminates the historic gardens of **Margam Country Park and Castle** from mid-November to early January.
* **Tenby Boxing Day Swim:** For the daring and adventurous, brave the freezing sea on Tenby’s North Beach on Boxing Day (December 26) and take part in this festive dip in fancy dress. Alternatively, stay warm and dry and enjoy the spectacle from the shore.
* **New Year’s Eve, nationwide:** Wales erupts in a flurry of festivities as it welcomes the New Year with parties, fairgrounds, and fireworks displays all across the country, with Cardiff often taking center stage.
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