Monmouthshire to witness rare partial solar eclipse

MONMOUTHSHIRE residents will have the opportunity to witness a partial solar eclipse on the evening of August 12 as it becomes visible across South Wales.

The moon will slide across the sun which causes a solar eclipse and block up to 96 per cent of the sun.

The eclipse is due to start around 6.15pm with maximum coverage at around 7.13pm when the sun is around 12 degrees above the horizon. The eclipse will end at around 8.07pm and the sun will set at 8.42pm.

When watching the solar eclipse only watch with special solar eclipse glasses have a high-strength filter in them to prevent harmful radiation and visible light from hitting the eyes. To ensure they are safe to use check the code: ISO 12312-2 which have a 2015 certificate as they have been recommended by the International Organisation for Standardisation.

The UK witnessed the last partial solar eclipse was in March 2025 but the last total eclipse was in 1999.

This partial solar eclipse will be something to remember as it's the first in around three decades that more than 90 per cent of the sun is expected to cover the moon.

But safety rules still apply. Under no circumstances should anyone look directly at the sun with the naked eye appropriate special solar eclipse glasses should be worn, normal sunglasses do not protect eyes from the strong sun beams during the eclipse and failure to do this can cause series eye damage.

We have curated the top three places in Monmouthshire/ Wye Valley to watch this years partial solar eclipse.

The Kymin will allow an elevated viewing point to witness the partial solar eclipse. Due to its high level it provides an unobstructed view, enabling people to get an ideal viewing experience.

This viewpoint located in the Wye Valley National Landscape near Monmouth and Trellech offers a high vantage point for viewing the evening sky during the partial solar eclipse.

Offers an array of view points and places of elevated land which will enhance the viewing whilst providing a scenic landscape of the Wye Valley area.