My father and I (60s/30s) are thinking of going to Wales for a week in early to mid-March, from the US. I know the season may not be the most optimal but it is where both our schedules align and he has been wanting to go. Does anyone have recommendations for that early in the spring or is it not a great idea at all? Even though it may be dark earlier (and rainy), are destinations and hikes still available? Any advice is appreciated (as well as pointers on where to go!)
Thank you!
March is on average the driest month in Wales. Temperatures will be cool and snow is most unlikely - except in mountainous areas. That said, towards the end of the month you can sometimes get some warm days. March the 21st is the spring equinox so you can expect 12 hours of daylight and 12 hours of darkness.
March 1st is St. David's Day = the patron saint of Wales and many festivities take place to mark this day - this usually includes a St.David’s Day Parade through central Cardiff just after noon. The daffodil is the national flower of Wales and some will indeed be in flower on this day. Trees will not be in leaf.
During the last week of March and into the second week of April, you can expect to see Magnolias in flower along with daffodils and an excellent display can be found in Bute Park which is immediately on the western side of Cardiff Castle. Some trees will also be in blossom. You will also find good displays of spring flowers at this time in St. Fagans Castle & Museum of Welsh History located just to the west of Cardiff (Cardiff Bus 32).
If you're interested in rugby at all (which is extremely popular in Wales), the Six Nations will be on the weekend of 6-7 March and 14 March. It can be fun to watch in a pub with supporters or even try to get a ticket to the final Wales match on the 14th, which will be at home against Italy: https://www.sixnationsrugby.com/en/m6n/news/2026-guinness-mens-six-nations-fixtures
I've not been to Wales at that time of year but if you're looking for hiking I think the Pembrokeshire Coast Path is one of the most beautiful in the UK.
