Scotland's Weather, Climate & Average Temperature (2024)

Scotland's Weather, Climate & Average Temperature (1)

We’ve heard plenty of jokes about Scotland’s weather. But Scotland’s climate is actually quite moderate though changeable. As the old Scottish saying goes, 'there's no such thing as bad weather, only the wrong clothes!'

Scotland's weather forecast

Scotland's Weather, Climate & Average Temperature (2)

Find out more

One of the most surprising things about Scotland's climate is how much it varies from one place to another.

It's often the case that you can drive for 20 minutes and find the conditions are different. The unpredictable nature means it's not uncommon to experience all four seasons in one day!

Scotland's seasons

Scotland's Weather, Climate & Average Temperature (3)

Spring

You can expect average maximum temperaturesto range from approximately 8-13°C (or 46°-55°F) during the months of March, April and May.

A beautiful time to visit, this season sees daffodils, bluebells, cherry blossom and rhododendrons bursting into bloom. With sprightly wildlife and a milder breeze in the air, there's plenty of activities to enjoy.

Even if you do experience an April shower or two, there is a fantastic range of galleries, museums and other attractions to keep you entertained all year-round, regardless of the weather.

Find out more on planning a spring or easter break

Scotland's Weather, Climate & Average Temperature (4)

Summer

June, July and August are normally the warmest months in Scotland, with average maximum temperatures around 17°C (or 63 °F).

Scotland's high latitude means that we enjoy lovely long summer days and often an extended twilight. In the north of the country, Lerwick in Shetland has about four hours more daylight at midsummer than London. At this time of year there is actually no complete darkness in the far north of Scotland. And, with the extra hours of daylight, you can pack a lot into yoursummer holiday. Round of golf at midnight anyone?

Plan a summer holiday in Scotland

Scotland's Weather, Climate & Average Temperature (5)

Autumn

In the autumn (or fall), Scotland is likely to experience temperatures rangingfrom around8-15°C (46-59°F) from September to November.

The colours of autumn are eye-catching and vibrant, as the trees change from green to fiery reds, oranges and yellows. It's a perfect time of year to snap some photographsas you takean invigoratingautumn amblethrough the forest.

Find out why autumn is amazing in Scotland

Scotland's Weather, Climate & Average Temperature (6)

Winter

December, January and February are generally the coldest months in Scotland, with the average maximum temperature usuallyaround 6°C (43°F).

The average number of days with snow falling in Scotland ranges from 10-20 days. However, the peaks and mountains of the Highlands experience around 40 days of falling snow. The snowsports season varies each year, but generally it runs from November to April. Scotland's five ski centres provide some of the best value snowboarding and skiing in Europe.

Plan a winter break in Scotland

Source foraverage maximumtemperatures:Met Office

Scotland's Weather, Climate & Average Temperature (7)

DID YOU KNOW?

  • In Scotland, we have an old proverb:'Today's rain is tomorrow's whisky.'
  • The eastern part of the country, from Inverness across to Aberdeenshire and down to Angus, Fife and the Lothians, enjoys an annual rainfall that is actually similar to (or less than) New York, Barcelona, Rome or even Rabat in Morocco.
  • Dundee is Scotland's sunniest city, with an average of 1,523 hours of sunshine per year.
  • The long daylight hours means that youcould play a round of golfin the middle of the nighton Orkney and Shetland.
  • Long dark winter nights are the best time to see amazing constellations of starsat Scotland's designated Dark Skyareas.
  • The Gulf Stream brings warm winds to Scotland's west coast. You can find palm trees in the Highland coastal town of Plockton.
  • Strong winds driving in from the Atlantic and North Sea make the Outer Hebrides and Sutherland a paradise for windsurfers.

Plan your trip to Scotland

Scotland's Weather, Climate & Average Temperature (8)

Tours of Scotland

See Scotland's sights on a tour, from day trips and open top buses through cities to week-long journeys across the country.

Scotland's Weather, Climate & Average Temperature (9)

Tourist Attractions in Scotland

Find information and ideas on great Scottish attractions and days out in Scotland, including castles, museums, galleries, wildlife parks.

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Accommodation in Scotland

Find the perfect accommodation for your break to Scotland.

Scotland's Weather, Climate & Average Temperature (11)

Top Tips for Travelling to Scotland

Our key information can help you plan your journey and learn more about Scottish history, arts & culture, geography, wildlife and events.

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Scotland's Islands

Scotland's Weather, Climate & Average Temperature (2024)

FAQs

Scotland's Weather, Climate & Average Temperature? ›

Unlike some other countries on the same latitude, Scotland has a narrow annual temperature range. In our warmest months, our average temperature sits around 18°C (around 64°F), and in our coldest months, it's around 0°C (around 32°F).

What is the weather like in Scotland all year round? ›

Edinburgh, like most of Scotland, has a temperate maritime climate with cold and humid winters and mild summers. The annual average temperature is 48°F (9°C) and it rains throughout the year.

What type of climate does Scotland have? ›

Scotland has a 'temperate' climate. Places with a temperate climate have four seasons; spring, summer, autumn and winter. The weather can be very unpredictable in a temperate climate.

What is the coldest month in Scotland? ›

December, January and February are generally the coldest months in Scotland, with the average maximum temperature usually around 6°C (43°F). The average number of days with snow falling in Scotland ranges from 10-20 days. However, the peaks and mountains of the Highlands experience around 40 days of falling snow.

Does Scotland get snow? ›

On average there are 38 days of snow in Scotland, with 26 days of settled snow on the ground. Most of the snow falls in northern mountainous areas like the Cairngorms, Glencoe and Torridon. Generally, snowfall is in the colder months of January and February but can arrive as early as November and stay as late as April.

What is the climate to travel to Scotland? ›

The best time to visit Scotland is during spring (late March to May) and fall (September to November). Temperatures are warmer by spring, with averages of 43°F to 59°F, although there will still be snow in the mountains of the Highlands and the Cairngorms.

What is considered hot weather in Scotland? ›

The definition of a heatwave in Scotland is when a location records a period of at least three consecutive days with maximum temperatures above 25°C, however impacts from heat can be felt for periods shorter than this.

How expensive is living in Scotland? ›

What is the cost of living in Scotland? Ans: The average cost of living in Scotland is around £1,500 per month, 1.26 times cheaper than the average cost of living in the UK. Scotland is rated as the finest place to live and the 8th most expensive state in the UK.

Can you drink the tap water in Scotland? ›

With over 99% of our samples meeting the required regulatory standards, we provide a quality supply of fresh drinking water straight into your home. This means you have a reliable supply of fresh drinking water on tap to help keep you hydrated throughout the day.

What US state has weather like Scotland? ›

Climate: Both Vermont and Scotland experience four distinct seasons, including relatively cool temperatures in the winter and milder weather in the summ.

What is the best month to visit Scotland? ›

To have the most sunlight and best weather, many people head to the Scottish Highlands in the summer, between May and September. Starting in October, the weather can be unpredictable — freezing temperatures, gale-force winds, and snowfall are all possible.

Does it rain a lot in Scotland? ›

That year the country recorded approximately 1,863 mm of rain. On average, Scotland receives the highest annual volume of rain in the United Kingdom. This is mostly due to its mountainous landscape in the north. Whilst it rains all year round in Scotland, the wettest periods are autumn and winter.

Can you use US dollars in Scotland? ›

In Scotland, you'll need cash to pay for taxis, incidentals, small purchases and tips. You can take US dollars with you and exchange them at the airport or make an ATM withdrawal.

Does it ever get warm in Scotland? ›

Unlike some other countries on the same latitude, Scotland has a narrow annual temperature range. In our warmest months, our average temperature sits around 18°C (around 64°F), and in our coldest months, it's around 0°C (around 32°F).

Can I wear leggings in Scotland? ›

When it's not rainy and you're enjoying that gorgeous, Scottish sunshine, why not add a comfy dress the to wardrobe? Add tights/leggings, one of those big, chunky scarves, and whichever pair of boots you opted for, and you're ready to go! Wool& has some great wool options that are ideal for Scotland.

How many hours of daylight are there in Scotland? ›

The sun typically rises around 8:42 AM and sets at 3:39 PM. Traveling further north to Inverness, which sits at 57.48 degrees north, daylight decreases slightly more. Here, the sun rises around 8:55 AM and sets by 3:33 PM, giving just over 6 and a half hours of daylight.

Why was Christmas banned in Scotland for 400 years? ›

Before the Reformation in 1560, Christmas in Scotland had been a religious feasting day. Then, with the powerful Kirk frowning upon anything related to Roman Catholicism, the Scottish Parliament passed a law in 1640 that made celebrating 'Yule vacations' illegal.

Do they celebrate Christmas in Scotland? ›

Scottish people celebrate Christmas by drawing on plenty of other traditions found across countries in Europe and the West. In Scotland, you'll see Christmas trees lighting up people's houses and wreaths on the front door. People put presents under the tree and leave mince pies for Father Christmas on Christmas Eve.

How expensive is Scotland? ›

On average, a budget trip to Scotland is estimated to cost around £55, €62, or $66 per day.

What is Scotland's biggest city? ›

Glasgow. Glasgow is Scotland's biggest city, home to nearly 600,000 people. Glasgow was also known as the second city of the British Empire. There is incredible historic architecture from the 18th and 19th centuries which contrasts beautifully with modern buildings as the city continues to grow and thrive.

What is the best time to visit Scotland? ›

The Short Answer

May, June, September and October. These months give you long days, almost all the tourism businesses are open, the crowds of July and August are avoided, midges are not at their most prolific and even the weather is pretty decent.

What month has the nicest weather in Scotland? ›

Many Scots rate May as the best month: long days, rising temperatures, dry weather...and no midges. Wildflowers are in bloom on the Hebridean machair, hawthorn hedges flower and cherry blossoms grace city parks.

Which part of Scotland has the best climate? ›

Scotland's east coast frequently receives far less rainfall than the west coast, making it a more favourable destination for holidaymakers.

Does Scotland have all four seasons? ›

Keep in mind that weather conditions are known to change quickly and often in all regions of Scotland and Northern England. The locals are fond of saying that you can experience all four seasons in a day, and quite often that's the case.

What is the rainy season in Scotland? ›

Scottish Autumn

October is the wettest month of the year. However, it's also the month when autumn really makes its presence known. Take in the changing colours, darker nights and some of Scotland's most exciting wildlife spectacles.

What is the warmest it gets in Scotland? ›

The highest official temperature recorded was 34.8 °C (94.6 °F) in Charterhall, Scottish Borders on 19 July 2022.

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