What Is The Average Weather in Edinburgh?

Be it for planning a vacation to the Scottish capital, or just as a matter of curiosity, many people wonder what the weather of Edinburgh is like. We have put together this guide to help tell you all you need to know about the climate in this beautiful UK city.

Average Temperatures in Edinburgh

The average temperature in Edinburgh varies throughout the year, but there are usually more warm days than not, making Edinburgh a pleasant place to be throughout the year. Summer temperatures usually range between 18 and 19 Celsius, with winter temperatures ranging between 1 and 5 Celsius. Temperatures rarely go below 0 Celsius, making Edinburgh generally quite mild when compared to other cities of similar latitudes.

Average Rainfall in Edinburgh

Edinburgh has an average of around 800mm of rainfall annually and as such can be considered a quite wet city. The number of rainy days typically ranges between 130-140 each year, with the months of June and July typically the wettest. Snowfall is also very common in Edinburgh, however in most cases it does not settle or last for longer than two or three days.

Phenomena To Look Out For in Edinburgh

Since Scotland is quite far north compared to other cities of the UK, it is possible to experience Polar Nights, where the daylight hours are very brief. In winter, the sun rises around 8:50 am and then sets at around 3:30 pm – lasting just under 7 hours. In the summertime however, daylight hours increase drastically so that people can enjoy up to 16 hours of daylight each day.

Another phenomenon which is quite common in Edinburgh is the so called ‘haar’, which is a thick coastal fog which can appear unexpectedly due to the influence of the North Sea.

Edinburgh is also on the path of orbitting satellites in low earth orbit, which means that every so often one of these space objects can appear for several minutes in the night sky – offering a unique spectacle for those looking up.

Despite these features however, Edinburgh has a fairly mild and consistent climate, with temperatures rarely fluctuating too drastically throughout the year. If you plan on visiting Scotland’s capital, then you can generally expect average temperatures between 18 and 19 Celsius during the summer months, and 1-5 Celsius during the winter months. Rainfall should also be expected with an average annual count of around 800mm and around 130-140 total days of rain annually, with June and July typically being the wettest months of them all. To learn more about Scotland’s climate you can check out this website weather2travel.com/climate-guides/uk/scotland.php which offers an extensive guide to all the climatic regions of Scotland.

An Insider’s Guide to Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh is the capital city of Scotland and one of Europe’s most popular tourist destinations. The city is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, cultural events, and world-famous festivals. Being located in Scotland, the weather can be unpredictable at times, with lots of rain, but it is always beautiful regardless of the weather. This insider’s guide will walk you through some of the things to do, see, eat, and explore in Edinburgh.

Attractions

The city has plenty of attractions from historic buildings, museums, art galleries, parks and gardens. The most iconic attraction is Edinburgh Castle, a stunning fortress that has stood on top of a volcanic rock for over a thousand years. A visit to the castle would not be complete without seeing the Scottish Crown Jewels and the Stone of Destiny.

Another popular attraction is the Royal Botanic Garden, covering 70 acres of lush greenery and beautiful plants. The garden offers stunning views of the city’s skyline and has a world-renowned Rock Garden. For a glimpse of marine life, the Edinburgh Aquarium is the place to be.

The National Museum of Scotland is a must-see for history and culture enthusiasts, showcasing Scotland’s fascinating history and heritage. You can also visit St Giles’ Cathedral to see its architecture, stained-glass windows, and Gothic Revival pillars.

Dining Spots

Edinburgh is the perfect destination for foodies, with a wide array of dining options for every budget and taste. For fine dining, The Kitchin is the place to be. It has a Michelin Star and serves seasonal Scottish cuisine made of fresh local ingredients.

If you’re looking for something more casual, you can head to The Dogs, located in the New Town area. It offers a relaxed atmosphere and traditional Scottish cuisine, including haggis.

For a sweet tooth, the Chocolate Tree is the ultimate destination. Its hand-crafted chocolates, cakes, and ice-creams are made with organic and fair-trade ingredients.

Cultural Experiences

Edinburgh is famous for its festivals and cultural events. One of the most famous is the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, which takes place every August. It is the largest arts festival in the world, featuring over 50,000 performances across the city. You can also attend the Edinburgh International Festival for theatre, music, and dance performances.

If you’re looking for something more traditional, the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is an iconic event held every August. It features military bands, dancers, and performers on the grounds of Edinburgh Castle.

Local History

Edinburgh has a rich and fascinating history spanning over 1000 years. You can learn about it by visiting the Royal Mile, a street that connects Edinburgh Castle at the top to the Palace of Holyroodhouse at the bottom. It’s lined with historic buildings and landmarks, including St Giles’ Cathedral and the National Museum of Scotland.

You can also visit the Georgian New Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site built in the late 18th century. Its architecture is impressive and reflects the prosperity of Edinburgh during the Enlightenment era.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For those looking for something different, you can visit the Camera Obscura and World of Illusions, a museum that explores the mysteries of perception and illusions. Or, you can take a walk to Calton Hill, which offers stunning views of the city and features historic monuments and buildings.

If you’re looking to experience Edinburgh’s natural beauty, you can head to the Water of Leith Walkway, a 12-mile trail that begins in the picturesque village of Balerno and ends at the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art.

In conclusion, Edinburgh is a city steeped in rich history and culture. It offers something for everyone, from historic landmarks and museums to delicious local cuisine and cultural events. I hope this insider’s guide helps you plan your visit to Edinburgh. Enjoy your trip!