Best time to go to the UK & Ireland
The months from April to October are the traditional time to visit the British Isles. As well as being the warmest time of the year, it is also when British Summer Time extends daylight long into the evenings. It is during this period that visitor attractions are fully operational, and when many social and sporting occasions take place.
During the months from April to June, the countryside bursts into bloom. Wild daffodils and bluebells herald the start of the season when gardens are at their most colourful.
July and August are the hottest months in the year, both in terms of temperature and events! The abundance of thrilling competitions, breathtaking festivals and plenty of other colourful events, some of which are detailed below, cater for all tastes. However, if you fancy a family vacation or a relaxing retreat from everyday life in one of the stunning resorts, there's a great variety to choose from.
During the winter months, days are short and the temperatures are often cold. Many attractions in the countryside close for the season. However, the city museums and sights remain open, and their restaurants and theatres will be in full swing.
Visitors who travel over Christmas or New Year may enjoy these celebrations in the cities. But this is also a time when the country house hotels offer festive programs which make an excellent addition to a city break.
Events in UK
St. David’s Day
1st March (annual)
Cardiff
St. David may be not as famous as St. Patrick, but the St. David’s festival will be nonetheless worth a visit. St. David was a 6th century Celtic monk preaching Christianity and founded a monastery in the west of Wales. Usually the Welsh wear daffodils or pieces of Leek on their caps or lapels. In Cardiff, there will be a whole weekend devoted to the Saint, of course with Welsh themed entertainment, such as Welsh music and dancing, food, concerts and a parade. Join in and get a taste of Welsh culture.
St. Patrick’s Day
17 March (annual)
London
Join in the green fun if you are in London in March, a whole week will be dedicated to the Irish saint, featuring free performances, step dancing such as the famous Riverdance, Irish comedians and more. On Saturday there will be a huge parade starting at Hyde Park corner. On the Sunday of St.Patrick’s Day weekend, you will find a delicious food market in Covent Garden, a Ceilidh in Leicester Square and an Irish Café in Trafalgar Square. Come along, but beware and wear something green, or you will get pinched
Royal Ascot
19th - 23rd June 2012
Ascot
If you are in England in June, you should not miss the Royal Ascot, held at one of the leading racecourses. Only the finest horses will race against each other in this famous race meeting. Maybe you will be lucky and even get a glimpse of the Royal Family who attend this spectular event. Do not forget to dress up, day dresses with hats for ladies and morning dresses with top hat are required.
Events in Ireland
Festival of Russian Culture Dublin
20th Feb – 26th Feb 2012
Dublin
This festival celebrates traditionally the end of Winter and beginning of Spring and presents Russian culture through art exhibitions, lectures, concerts and other events. Come along and get a taste of Russian food and listen to amazing storytellers.
St Patrick's Festival
16th - 19th March 2012
Dublin
Go green and join the biggest party in Ireland. For a few days Dublin will be green with traditional Irish music, street theatre, comedy, a treasure hunt, street spectacles and of course the St. Patrick’s Day Parade including dancers, puppetry and marching bands.
Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival
3rd -13th May 2012
Belfast
The cathedral quarter festival is not to be missed. It features music, theatre, films, circus, comedy and visual arts, bringing music and words into the city.
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