Weather by Month in Edinburgh

Edinburgh experiences distinct seasons, with warm July days averaging 18°C / 64°F and cool February nights dropping to 2°C / 36°F. Rainfall averages 71 mm / 2.8 inches per month, with October typically the wettest. June offers the longest days with around 17 hours of daylight.

Monthly Climate Comparison

The biggest temperature swing occurs between October and November, as typical highs shift from 12.2°C / 54°F to 8.6°C / 47.6°F (about 3.5°C / 6.4°F).

Month Low Temperature High Temperature Category
January 2°C 6°C COLD
February 2°C 6.6°C COLD
March 2.6°C 8.2°C COOL
April 4.1°C 10.5°C COOL
May 6.8°C 13.4°C COOL
June 9.7°C 16°C MILD
July 11.6°C 17.9°C MILD
August 11.6°C 17.6°C MILD
September 9.9°C 15.5°C MILD
October 7.5°C 12.2°C COOL
November 4.4°C 8.6°C COOL
December 2.3°C 6.2°C COLD

Rain & Sunshine Patterns

Driest Months

#1 April
Best for: outdoor activities & sightseeing
#2 March
Best for: outdoor activities & sightseeing
#3 September
Best for: outdoor activities & sightseeing

Wettest Months

#1 October
Expect: possible showers, pack waterproofs
#2 December
Expect: possible showers, pack waterproofs
#3 August
Expect: possible showers, pack waterproofs

UV & Sun Protection Calendar

High UV Alert:
May, June, July require serious sun protection.
Jan
1
LOW-MOD
Feb
2
LOW-MOD
Mar
4
MODERATE
Apr
5
MODERATE
May
6
HIGH
Jun
7
HIGH
Jul
6
HIGH
Aug
6
MODERATE
Sep
5
MODERATE
Oct
3
MODERATE
Nov
2
LOW-MOD
Dec
1
LOW
Extreme (11+)
Avoid sun during midday, use SPF 50+
Very High (8-10)
Essential sun protection required
High (6-7)
Use SPF 30+, wear hat & sunglasses
Moderate (3-5)
Sun protection recommended
Low-Moderate (1-2)
Minimal protection needed
Low (0)
No protection required

Daylight Hours

Daylight varies from 7.1 hours in December (winter) to 17.5 hours in June (summer), which is a difference of 10.4 hours.

Shortest Days

December
7.1h
Average Sunrise:08:35
Average Sunset:15:40
Plan daytime activities for midday when light is best. Early sunsets mean evening plans should account for darkness.

Longest Days

June
17.5h
Average Sunrise:03:28
Average Sunset:20:57
Extended daylight perfect for evening activities and late dining. You can fit more sightseeing into each day.

Wind & Humidity Overview

Wind Conditions

Average wind speed
Windiest months:
February ( 19 km/h) January ( 19 km/h) December ( 17 km/h)
Packing tip: Conditions are generally calm, but a light layer is always handy.

Humidity Levels

Average humidity
82%
Most humid:
December ( 87%)
Least humid:
June ( 78%)
Packing tip: Choose breathable, natural fabrics like cotton or linen for comfort in humid conditions.

Seasonal Overview

Northern Hemisphere seasons shape the weather patterns throughout the year. Here's what to expect in each season:

Winter

January, February, December
Avg High
Avg Low
Avg Rain
Cool weather; bring layers and a jacket

Spring

March, April, May
Avg High
Avg Low
Avg Rain
Variable conditions; layer your clothing

Summer

June, July, August
Avg High
Avg Low
Avg Rain
Comfortable temperatures; enjoy outdoor activities

Autumn

September, October, November
Avg High
Avg Low
Avg Rain
Cooling down; pack warmer clothes

Risk Ranking Table

Ranking Goal #1#2#3#4
Lowest rain risk
Apr 3 risk days
Mar 4 risk days
May 4 risk days
Jun 4 risk days
Lowest heatwave risk
Jan 0 risk days
Feb 0 risk days
Mar 0 risk days
Apr 0 risk days
Lowest cold risk
Jul 6 risk days
Aug 6 risk days
Sep 15 risk days
Jun 16 risk days
Lowest wind disruption risk
Jul 56 km/h
Aug 59 km/h
Jun 61 km/h
May 61 km/h
Most comfortable evenings
Jul 53 / 100
Aug 52 / 100
Jun 45 / 100
Sep 43 / 100
Best outdoor reliability
Apr 93 / 100
Jun 73 / 100
May 73 / 100
Sep 69 / 100

Monthly Details

Click any month for detailed weather information and packing advice.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best month to visit Edinburgh?

The best months to visit Edinburgh depend on your preferences. For warm weather, July is typically the warmest month. For dry conditions, April, March, September tend to have the least rainfall. Consider your priorities, and whether you prefer warmer temperatures, drier weather, or longer daylight hours.

When is Edinburgh warmest?

July is typically the warmest month in Edinburgh, with average high temperatures reaching around 18°C (64°F). This is peak summer weather, ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

When is Edinburgh coldest?

February is usually the coldest month, with average low temperatures dropping to around 2°C (36°F). Pack warm layers if visiting during this time, especially for evening activities.

When does Edinburgh get the most rain?

October typically sees the most rainfall in Edinburgh, averaging around 89mm (3.5 inches). It's wise to pack waterproof layers and have some indoor backup plans if you're visiting during this month.

What is the driest month in Edinburgh?

April is typically the driest month, with average rainfall of just 54mm (2.1 inches). This makes it an excellent time for outdoor exploration and activities with minimal risk of rain disruption.

How much does the temperature vary in Edinburgh throughout the year?

Temperatures in Edinburgh range from average lows of 6°C (43°F) to highs of 12°C (53°F). This variation means you'll want to pack differently depending on when you visit, as layers are key for adapting to the seasonal changes.

Do I need sun protection when visiting Edinburgh?

Yes, sun protection is important in Edinburgh. UV levels can reach 7 during peak months, which is considered high. Pack sunscreen (SPF 30+), sunglasses, and a hat, especially if you'll be outdoors for extended periods.

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