Swansea's climate is mild, wet and changeable — typical of the Welsh coast. Average summer highs are around 19–21 °C, average winter highs around 8 °C, and rain is a regular possibility in any month. The Gower Peninsula gets a little less rainfall than the inland valleys.
Summer (June–August) is the obvious season. The promenades along Swansea Bay come alive, the Gower beaches are at their best, and the Mumbles is a perfect Sunday afternoon. Expect crowds at Rhossili on hot weekends.
Spring (April–May) is good for the gardens — Clyne in particular is spectacular when the rhododendrons bloom. Autumn is wet but atmospheric, with mist over the bay. Winter is quiet and the Christmas market in Castle Square has a small but cheerful run.
The Dylan Thomas Festival in late October and early November is the main literary event of the year. The Swansea International Festival in October brings classical music and theatre to venues across the city.