United KingdomAbout
Wales is a country that is part of the United Kingdom. Located on the island of Great Britain, it is bordered by the Irish Sea to the north and west, England to the east, the Bristol Channel to the south, and the Celtic Sea to the south-west. As of 2021, it had a population of 3.2 million. It has a total area of 21,218 square kilometres (8,192 sq mi) and over 2,700 kilometres (1,680 mi) of coastline. It is largely mountainous with its higher peaks in the north and central areas, including Snowdon, its highest summit. The country lies within the north temperate zone and has a changeable, maritime climate. Its capital and largest city is Cardiff.
When things are closed
Upcoming public holidays in Wales. On these dates, expect banks, post offices, and government services to close. Many shops and museums close or run shortened hours; transit typically still runs.
Summer Bank Holiday
Regional, not nationwide
August 31, 2026
Monday
Saint Andrew's Day
Regional, not nationwide
November 30, 2026
Monday
Christmas Day
December 25, 2026
Friday
Boxing Day · St. Stephen's Day
December 28, 2026
Monday
New Year's Day
Regional, not nationwide
January 1, 2027
Friday
2 January
Regional, not nationwide
January 2, 2027
Saturday
Cities (4)
Saved on my Wales lists
6 places · 6 visited
References4
These references support the changing or licensed material on this page. Personal notes and ordinary geographic facts are not footnoted individually. Entry rules can change, so verify them before booking.
- Travel practicalities. Entry, driving, electricity, water, and official application context. Related: Driving side, World Standards, CDC Yellow Book, WHO drinking-water guidance.
- Country background. Wikipedia summary may be clipped or paraphrased. Numeric baselines are cross-checked with Wikidata. Related: Wikidata, .
