Sunny Spots Near Cardiff
Locations within ~60 min drive
Last updated: 27 Sep 2026
With Cardiff currently experiencing cloudy with a real chance of rain, it’s a perfect day to seek out sunnier locales. The average cloud cover is 82.3%, and while the rain probability is 19%, there are several sunny spots within ~60 min drive of the city. The Brecon Beacons to the north can create localized rain shadow effects, resulting in a clear difference in conditions just a short drive away. Today is definitely worth the drive to explore brighter skies!
Today's weather recommendation
The best outdoor window for heading out from Cardiff today is between 8am and 10am, and again from 6pm to 8pm, as light rain is expected around 11am and rain showers at 12pm. For the sunniest conditions throughout the day, head towards Swansea, which offers a clear advantage with its consistently brighter skies compared to Cardiff; the western part of the region is noticeably better today.
Swansea leads the way with ample sunshine today, followed by Hereford, which will be mostly cloudy, and Brecon, which is cloudier still. With Swansea being just within driving distance of Cardiff, it stands out as an excellent escape from the current overcast conditions, making it the ideal choice for those seeking clear skies.
Sunniest Spots Within Reach
Partly sunny
Mostly sunny
Mostly cloudy
Clear with periodic clouds
CloudyFAQ
Why do some destinations rank above others on the sunny spots list?
Destinations rank above others based on their sunny spots score, which is calculated from the daytime forecast average. This score is influenced by factors such as cloud cover, which is weighted at 80%, and rain avoidance, weighted at 20%. Thus, locations exhibiting clearer skies and less precipitation will rank higher.
What does the contrast score tell us about the sunshine difference near Cardiff?
The contrast score reveals the difference in sunshine levels between Cardiff and the ranked destinations. A higher contrast score indicates a more significant advantage in sunshine quality at the destination compared to Cardiff, suggesting that travelers can expect notably sunnier conditions.
Which is the best direction to head from Cardiff for the clearest skies?
The best direction to head for the clearest skies is typically towards the areas with the highest sunny spots scores, found within approximately 60 minutes' drive from Cardiff. These destinations have been ranked based on their forecasted conditions, making them ideal for those seeking sun.
How confident can I be that the sunny conditions will hold when I get there?
Your confidence in the sunny conditions holding when you arrive depends on the scoring methodology, which is updated twice daily based on the daytime forecast. Since the sunny spots score reflects the current forecast, it provides a reliable indication of the expected weather during your visit.
What sunshine levels should I expect when you arrive at the top destination?
When you arrive at the top-ranked destination, you can expect sunshine levels aligned with that location's sunny spots score, which reflects the daytime forecast averages. This score is derived from a detailed analysis of cloud cover and rain avoidance, ensuring that you have a good sense of the conditions for your trip.
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