Weather in Scotland

Being so far north, Scotland has a changeable weather pattern throughout the seasons. One minute, you can be shivering in icy winds, and the next enjoy warmer days. From shorter days of winter to long, long days of summer, it is worth knowing what to expect in terms of weather when you visit.

January

With Hogmanay celebrations and Burns Night of the 25th, there is plenty to keep you warm as the snow and low, icy temperatures hit. Expect snow and ice on higher ground as a given but be prepared for snow on lower ground too. Temperatures rarely climb above 5° and expect winter storms.

February

Winter storms are yet to pass so don’t let the occasional warm day fool you. Expect a balmy 7 to 8°, with rain and wind. But – at last! – daylight hours start to increase.

March

The snow peak mountains remain majestic but snow and ice on lower ground melts away with the spring thaw. The daytime temperature can reach double figures and, if the traditional weather pattern is followed, rainy days become fewer.

April

With daytime temperatures a pleasant 12° or more, April is the month that the flora and fauna of Scotland emerge from their winter hibernation. Night time temperatures can be cool though, so be prepared for the occasional hard frost with clear skies.

May

Similar to the conditions of April, the major changes are nighttime temperatures which should, on lower ground at least, remain well above freezing. Rainfall is at its lowest during this month, although that is subject to change…

June

Daylight hours are at their longest during this month but, as the sun breaks out there is another issue for the traveller to deal with: Scotland’s midges. Lasting until September, have repellent to hand as you enjoy daytime temperatures of around 17 to 18° and lows of 10°.

July

Temperatures, on average, touch a pleasant 19° during the day although, there have been occasions that some parts of Scotland have basked in temperatures of up to 27°. Rainfall is low, winds light and the evenings warm

August

… and should remain so during the month of August although you may notice that the days are not so long.

September

Autumn has arrived in Scotland and this means that the temperatures start to decline, and the winds become a little keener. Daytime temperatures barely top 15° and the days, shorter on daylight, now also become wetter and a little grayer. But still, Scotland has an understated beauty.

October

Autumn has arrived with daytime temperatures no longer expected to be in double figures. Night time temperatures remain above freezing but frosts are common. Higher ground is now cold with the first light dusting of snow a perfect complement to the vibrant red and yellows of the lower ground

November

Temperatures hover between 5 and 7° with the chances of many days of rain and wind now a common expectation. But as the snow on high ground becomes thicker and the winds colder, you can enjoy the feasts of Scotland saint on the 30th of the month, all in an effort to stay warm.

December

With the shortest days of the year, expect day and night time temperatures to remain low and the chances of heavy snow on lower ground to be high. Keep an eye on weather warnings for storms that blow in and be prepared to change your travel plans as needed.