Llandudno, located on the north coast of Wales in the United Kingdom, experiences a temperate maritime climate (Köppen classification Cfb). Its position on the Irish Sea and proximity to the Snowdonia mountain range create mild, wet conditions year-round. This article provides a month-by-month breakdown of rainfall, temperature, and daylight hours based on long-term averages from the Met Office and local weather stations. Whether you are planning a seaside holiday or a walking trip to the Great Orme, understanding Llandudno’s climate will help you pack appropriately and choose the best season for your activities.
January — Cool, Wet, and Short Days
January is the coldest month in Llandudno, with average daily high temperatures around 8°C (46°F) and lows dropping to 3°C (37°F). Rainfall is abundant, averaging 90-110 mm (3.5-4.3 inches) over 15-18 wet days. Daylight hours are at their minimum: sunrise occurs around 8:20 AM and sunset near 4:20 PM, giving roughly 8 hours of daylight. The sea temperature is around 7°C (45°F), making swimming unpleasant. Winds are frequent, often from the southwest, bringing Atlantic storms. Despite the chill, the weather in Llandudno in January can offer crisp, clear days perfect for coastal walks if you dress warmly.
February — Slightly Milder, Still Wet
February sees a marginal rise in temperatures, with highs reaching 8-9°C (46-48°F) and lows around 3°C (37°F). Rainfall remains high at 70-90 mm (2.8-3.5 inches) over 13-16 days. Daylight increases to about 9.5 hours, with sunrise at 7:40 AM and sunset at 5:20 PM by month’s end. The sea stays cold at 6-7°C (43-45°F). Snow is rare but possible on higher ground like the Great Orme. February is often overcast, but sunny spells occur. For up-to-date conditions, see the Llandudno weather forecast.
March — Spring Begins, Variable Weather
March marks the start of meteorological spring. Average highs reach 10-11°C (50-52°F) and lows 4-5°C (39-41°F). Rainfall decreases slightly to 60-80 mm (2.4-3.1 inches) over 12-15 days. Daylight hours expand rapidly, from 11 hours at the start to 13 hours by the end, with sunrise at 6:30 AM and sunset at 6:30 PM (after clocks spring forward). The sea remains cold at 7°C (45°F). March can bring both mild, sunny days and cold, wet spells. It is a transitional month, ideal for early spring walks on the West Shore beach when the weather cooperates.
April — Drier and Warmer, Increasing Sunshine
April brings more settled weather. Highs average 12-13°C (54-55°F) and lows 5-6°C (41-43°F). Rainfall drops to 50-70 mm (2.0-2.8 inches) over 10-13 days. Daylight hours reach 14-15 hours, with sunrise around 6:10 AM and sunset near 8:10 PM (BST). The sea temperature rises slowly to 8-9°C (46-48°F). April can have pleasant, sunny afternoons, but is still prone to showers. The North Wales Coast Path is popular this month. Average wind speeds decrease compared to winter.
May — Mild and Pleasant, Long Evenings
May is one of the best months for outdoor activities. Highs reach 15-16°C (59-61°F) and lows 8-9°C (46-48°F). Rainfall is moderate at 50-70 mm (2.0-2.8 inches) over 10-12 days. Daylight extends to 16 hours, with sunrise at 5:10 AM and sunset at 9:10 PM. Sea temperature reaches 10-11°C (50-52°F). The risk of frost disappears. May often features anticyclonic conditions, bringing dry, sunny spells. It is an excellent time to visit the Great Orme Country Park and enjoy panoramic views.
June — Warmest Start, Longest Days
June sees summer solstice around the 21st, with over 16.5 hours of daylight (sunrise 4:50 AM, sunset 9:40 PM). Highs average 18-19°C (64-66°F) and lows 11-12°C (52-54°F). Rainfall is low for the region: 50-60 mm (2.0-2.4 inches) over 9-11 days. Sea temperature rises to 13-14°C (55-57°F). June is typically the sunniest month, with about 6-7 hours of sunshine per day. It is ideal for beach outings and boat trips. However, occasional Atlantic fronts can still bring rain. Check the Llandudno summer weather guide for updates.
July — Warmest Month, Peak Tourist Season
July is the warmest month, with highs of 20-21°C (68-70°F) and lows of 13-14°C (55-57°F). Rainfall averages 50-70 mm (2.0-2.8 inches) over 9-12 days. Daylight hours begin to decrease slightly, from 16.5 hours to 15.5 hours by month’s end (sunrise 5:00 AM, sunset 9:30 PM). Sea temperature peaks at 15-16°C (59-61°F). July can experience heatwaves, but more often it is comfortably warm with a mix of sun and cloud. The Llandudno Pier is bustling. Afternoon sea breezes keep temperatures moderate.
August — Warm and Humid, Still Busy
August continues the warm pattern, with highs around 20°C (68°F) and lows 13°C (55°F). Rainfall increases slightly to 60-80 mm (2.4-3.1 inches) over 10-13 days. Daylight shrinks to 14-15 hours (sunrise 6:00 AM, sunset 8:30 PM by end of month). Sea temperature remains at 15-16°C (59-61°F). Humidity is higher, and thunderstorms are possible. August is still a peak month for tourism, with events like the Llandudno Victorian Extravaganza. The Llandudno Bay beaches are popular for swimming and sunbathing.
September — Autumnal Shift, Cooling Down
September sees a noticeable drop in temperature. Highs average 17-18°C (63-64°F) and lows 11-12°C (52-54°F). Rainfall increases to 70-90 mm (2.8-3.5 inches) over 11-14 days. Daylight hours fall to 12-13 hours (sunrise 6:45 AM, sunset 7:45 PM). Sea temperature remains mild at 14-15°C (57-59°F). Early September can still be warm, but by the end, autumn weather sets in. It is a good time for hiking without summer crowds. The Autumn in Llandudno guide offers tips for this season.
October — Cool and Wet, Shorter Days
October temperatures range from highs of 14-15°C (57-59°F) to lows of 8-9°C (46-48°F). Rainfall rises to 90-110 mm (3.5-4.3 inches) over 15-18 days. Daylight drops to 10-11 hours (sunrise 7:45 AM, sunset 6:15 PM). Sea temperature cools to 12-13°C (54-55°F). October is often cloudy and rainy, with occasional storms. The autumn colours on the Great Orme are spectacular. It is advisable to bring waterproof clothing. For detailed data, refer to the Llandudno rainfall statistics page.
November — Cold, Dark, and Damp
November sees average highs of 10-11°C (50-52°F) and lows of 5-6°C (41-43°F). Rainfall is high at 100-120 mm (3.9-4.7 inches) over 16-19 days. Daylight hours reduce to 8-9 hours (sunrise 7:30 AM, sunset 4:30 PM). Sea temperature drops to 10-11°C (50-52°F). November is one of the cloudiest months, with frequent drizzle and strong winds. Snow is rare but can occur on higher ground. Indoor attractions like the Llandudno Museum are good options.
December — Coldest, Darkest, Wettest
December is similar to January: highs around 8°C (46°F), lows 3°C (37°F). Rainfall peaks at 100-130 mm (3.9-5.1 inches) over 17-20 days. Daylight is minimal, with only 7.5 hours (sunrise 8:25 AM, sunset 4:00 PM). Sea temperature is at its lowest, 7-8°C (45-46°F). The winter solstice occurs around December 21. Storms are common, and flooding can occur. Despite the gloom, Christmas lights and events bring cheer. Check the Christmas in Llandudno page for festive activities.
Summary of Annual Climate
Llandudno receives about 900-1200 mm (35-47 inches) of rain annually, spread over 150-180 wet days. The sunniest months are May to July, with 5-7 hours of sunshine daily. The warmest month is July (20°C / 68°F average high), the coldest is January (8°C / 46°F). Daylight ranges from 7.5 hours in December to 16.5 hours in June. Sea temperatures vary from 7°C (45°F) in February to 16°C (61°F) in August. The prevailing wind is from the southwest, but local topography creates variations.
Microclimates and Local Variations
The Great Orme headland creates a rain shadow effect: the west side (West Shore) can be drier and sunnier, while the east side (Llandudno Bay) is more exposed to easterly winds. The Orme summit is often 2-3°C cooler and windier. The nearby Conwy Valley can be colder in winter due to frost pockets. These variations are important for walkers and gardeners.
Climate Change Trends
Long-term data from the Met Office (1961-1990 vs 1991-2020) show a warming trend of about 0.3°C per decade in North Wales. Winters have become milder and wetter, with fewer frost days. Summer heatwaves are more frequent, but overall rainfall has increased slightly. Sea level rise affects the promenade, leading to coastal defence projects. For the latest, see the Climate change in Llandudno article.