The climate of Edinburgh
Situated on the East coast of Scotland,
Edinburgh experiences a Marine West Coast climate classified as Cfb under the Köppen climate system. Throughout the calendar year, the weather ebbs and flows, manifesting an array of conditions that can be simultaneously challenging and rewarding for residents and visitors alike. Weather parameters such as temperature, precipitation and daylight duration show significant variations within the span of twelve months.
Temperatures fluctuate moderately, with
January's lows reaching 1.6°C (34.9°F) and
July's peak temperatures hitting around 17.2°C (63°F). Precipitation also changes throughout the year with the highest rainfall observed in
August at 70mm (2.76"), while the driest month falls in
April with 25mm (0.98") of rain. It's noteworthy that snowfall can be seen from
December to
February, with December and February bearing the most significant amounts of 12mm (0.47") each. Sunshine hours vary significantly, reaching its peak in
June at 17.5 hours and dipping to 7.1 hours in December. The city also experiences wind variations, with the highest gusts of up to 33.8km/h (21mph) hitting the city in December and January.
The best time to visit Edinburgh
A pleasant period for visiting
Edinburgh generally falls between
June and
September. During this time, temperatures average between 13°C (55.4°F) and 17.2°C (63°F). Combined with an upsurge in daylight hours, it typically translates to longer, brighter days suitable for outdoor activities and city exploration.
July also brings the least amount of snowfall, and the city sees sunshine for seven hours a day, increasing the appeal for tourists.
The worst time to visit Edinburgh
Tourists tend to avoid
Edinburgh during the late autumn and winter months from
November to
February. This period sees lows plummeting to 1.6°C (34.9°F) to 3.9°C (39°F) making it the coldest period of the year; daylight hours fall to less than 8 hours per day. Additionally, Edinburgh experiences its highest rainfall in November and
December at 38mm (1.5") and 39mm (1.54"), correspondingly, further dampening the tourism appeal of the city during this time.
Spring weather in Edinburgh
Spring, extending from
March to
May, sees a swift shift from the biting temperatures of winter. As the season progresses, the average temperature comfortably sits between 2.5°C (36.5°F) and 5.8°C (42.4°F). Meanwhile, rainfall is lower compared to other seasons, ranging from 25mm (0.98") to 37mm (1.46") per month. The city also experiences extended hours of daylight, increasing from 11.9 hours in March to 16.3 hours in May.
Summer weather in Edinburgh
From
June to
August,
Edinburgh welcomes the teeming influx of tourists with warmer weather. Average high temperatures range from 15.5°C (59.9°F) to 17.2°C (63°F), while humidity remains relatively high, between 84% and 85%. Relative to other months, rainfall strikes high during this period, peaking at 70mm (2.76") in August.
Autumn weather in Edinburgh
The fall of Autumn in
Edinburgh from
September to
November ushers in cooler temperatures, averaging between 9°C (48.2°F) and 14.7°C (58.5°F).
October and November see a bit of a spike in rainfall, reaching 41mm (1.61") and 38mm (1.5") each. Despite a decrease in daylight hours, the city still basks in strong visibility averaging at 9km (5.6mi) throughout this season.
Winter weather in Edinburgh
Winters in
Edinburgh, stretching from
December to
February, are the epitome of Scotland's weather stereotypes. Temperatures plunge to an average low between 1.6°C (34.9°F) and 2.1°C (35.8°F) in
January and February. This period also brings the most snowfall, with 12mm (0.47") each in December and February. Though daylight hours are low, ranging from 7.1 to 8.3 per day, the beauty of the snow-capped cityscape undeniably offers its charm.
Weather in January
In the city of
Edinburgh,
January is noted for its generally low temperatures, frequent rain, and a frequent blanket of snow. January sees the lowest temperatures from its consistent chilling gusts, reaching up to 33.8km/h (21mph).
Weather in January »Weather in February
As
February arrives in
Edinburgh, a slight change can be observed in the climate. Volatile weather patterns persist in February, with above-average snowfall at 24mm (0.94"), contributing to a frosty ambiance across the city. This month, the city remains frequently cloudy, with high humidity ensuring that the cold bites to the bone.
Weather in February »Weather in March
March sees a shift in
Edinburgh's weather, marking the transition from winter to spring, even though temperatures remain low. This month is identified by undulating weather patterns even though it sees the highest wind speed recorded so far in the year with gusts up to 29.5km/h (18.3mph).
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April in
Edinburgh witnesses a significant shift in the weather with a noticeable decrease in both rainfall and wind speed, heralding the arrival of spring in earnest. Daylight hours increase to 14.2 hours a day, indicating longer sunny days, suggesting milder weather.
Weather in April » Weather in May
As
May arrives in
Edinburgh, it attracts locals and visitors alike to partake in outdoor activities. Winds calm down from their usual speed to a noticeable 15.3km/h (9.5mph). Late May in Edinburgh is renowned for its longer days and refreshing spring showers.
Weather in May »Weather in June
Edinburgh's
June weather features promoting the city's radiant, bustling summer ambiance. The sea starts warming up in June, reaching an average of 12.3°C (54.1°F), making it appealing for water activities. Although there are frequent rain showers, they don't deter sightseeing and festivities.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July in
Edinburgh is the apex of summer, making it one of the warmest months and a popular time for tourists. The city experiences its highest average temperature in July at 17.2°C (63°F), which is agreeable for several outdoor activities.
Weather in July » Weather in August
Weather in
Edinburgh during
August remains pleasant, prolonging the summer allure. Even though August contends with
July for the warmest month, temperatures slightly downgrade to an average of 16.7°C (62.1°F). Event enthusiasts and performers from all over the world are attracted by the fringe festival, making this month glowing with vibrancy.
Weather in August »Weather in September
Edinburgh's
September weather signifies the onset of the autumn season. There is a perceptible change in the air, with a wind speed slightly increased to 15.4km/h (9.6mph). As the city embraces a more colorful scenery, daylight wakes up the advent of shorter days.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October in
Edinburgh is known for its pronounced autumn weather, with chillier temperatures kicking in. The weather can be unpredictable with increasing rainfall of 41mm (1.61"), which might add a spooky atmosphere to the Halloween season.
Weather in October » Weather in November
November weather in
Edinburgh signifies the arrival of early winter showers, with lower overall temperatures. November brings the first snowfall after the summer, which measures around 5mm (0.2"). The city's mood is grim under the gray skies, with daylight becoming noticeably shorter.
Weather in November » Weather in December
As
December arrives in
Edinburgh, the city enters the winter cycle with full force. The month is distinguished by its increased snowfall, measuring in at 12mm (0.47"). However, the city sparkles under the charming street lamps and the twinkling seasonal lights.
Weather in December »