As of late January 2026, Edinburgh is experiencing typical winter conditions with daytime highs of 7°C to 8°C and frequent light rain, though severe snow is currently unlikely in the city center. The outlook for early February suggests a continuation of this “westerly” pattern: mild for the season but persistently damp and overcast, with overnight lows holding above freezing (around 3°C to 4°C). Visitors should expect short days and grey skies, but the city remains fully accessible, with the worst of the early January ice having cleared.
Current Weather Outlook (January – February 2026)
The weather in Edinburgh right now is defined by Atlantic weather systems. This means the city is avoiding the deep freeze often found further inland, but it is trading the cold for wind and drizzle.
The Forecast for Early February
Moving into the first week of February 2026, the forecast indicates high stability in temperature but instability in precipitation.
- Temperature: Highs will remain steady at 8°C, which is slightly above the long-term average for this time of year.
- Precipitation: Rain probability sits at 60-80% daily. This is rarely a torrential downpour; instead, expect “dreich” conditions—a Scottish term for persistent, miserable drizzle that soaks you through.
- Wind: Moderate winds from the South-West (10-15 mph) will be common. These winds can feel significantly stronger when funneling through the high-sided streets of the Old Town.
Recent Weather Warnings
While late December and early January 2026 saw Yellow warnings for snow and ice across the Lothians, the current alert level is low. However, travelers should always check the Met Office for “Yellow” warnings regarding wind, particularly if crossing the Forth Road Bridge or driving on exposed routes like the A1.
Edinburgh’s Climate: What to Expect Year-Round
Edinburgh has a temperate maritime climate. In plain English, this means it avoids extreme heat or extreme cold, but it is famously changeable. The city is windier and drier than Glasgow (its neighbor to the west) but significantly cooler than London.
The “Four Seasons in One Day” Myth
It is not a myth; it is a daily reality. Because Edinburgh sits on the coast of the Firth of Forth, weather fronts move through rapidly. It is entirely normal to experience bright sunshine, hail, and calm grey skies all within a single afternoon. This variability is why “layering” is the golden rule for locals and tourists alike.
Rainfall Reality Check
Contrary to popular belief, Edinburgh is not the wettest city in the UK. In fact, it receives less annual rainfall than Rome, New York, or even neighboring Glasgow. However, it rains often (frequent days with small amounts) rather than heavily. You are more likely to need a hood for drizzle than a boat for a flood.
Seasonal Weather Guide
Choosing when to visit depends entirely on what you want to do. Each season dramatically alters the character of the city, from the dark, atmospheric days of winter to the manic energy of the summer festivals.
Spring (March – May)
Spring is often cited by photographers as the best season for light. The days lengthen rapidly, and the daffodils on Princes Street Gardens bloom.
- March: Still feels like winter. Snow flurries are common, especially on Arthur’s Seat. Average High: 9°C.
- April: Statistically the driest month of the year. The air is crisp, and the sky is often a piercing blue. Average High: 11°C.
- May: The “sweet spot” for travel. The Cherry Blossoms in the Meadows are out, and temperatures reach a pleasant 14°C-15°C.
Summer (June – August)
Summer brings the crowds and the long days, with twilight lasting until 11:00 PM in late June.
- The “Haar”: This is a unique sea mist that rolls in from the North Sea, typically in June or July. It can blanket the city in a cold, grey fog while just a few miles inland is basking in sunshine. It usually burns off by midday but can drop temperatures by 5°C instantly.
- Temperatures: Average highs are 19°C. Heatwaves can push this to 25°C, which feels much hotter due to the humidity and lack of air conditioning in historic buildings.
- August: The Festival month. The city is packed. The weather is usually decent, but muggy.
Autumn (September – November)
Autumn is visually stunning but wet. The stone architecture looks magnificent against the turning leaves.
- September: Often an extension of summer (“Indian Summer” is common). Highs of 16°C.
- October: The wettest month of the year. Gales are common. Pack waterproofs.
- November: The darkness sets in. Sunset moves to 4:00 PM. It becomes damp and chilly (Highs 9°C).
Winter (December – February)
Edinburgh in winter is dark, atmospheric, and cold, but rarely frozen solid.
- Daylight: The biggest shock for visitors is the lack of light. In December, sunrise is after 8:30 AM and sunset is before 3:45 PM.
- Snow: While snow on the castle looks magical in postcards, deep snow in the city center is rare (occurring maybe 3-5 days a year). Ice on the cobbled streets is the bigger danger.
- Wind: Winter storms can be ferocious, with gusts over 50 mph closing the Christmas Market attractions occasionally.
Practical Information and Planning
Knowing the forecast is one thing; knowing how to navigate the city in it is another.
What to Pack (The “Onion” Strategy)
- The Shell: Do not rely on an umbrella; the wind will destroy it in minutes. Invest in a high-quality, windproof rain jacket with a hood.
- The Mid-Layer: A fleece or wool jumper.
- Footwear: Avoid canvas shoes or high heels. The Old Town is paved with cobblestones that become incredibly slippery when wet. Waterproof leather boots with good grip are the only sensible choice.
- Sun Protection: Yes, really. The UV index is low, but the wind can cause “windburn,” and the glare from wet streets can be bright.
Transport in Bad Weather
- Lothian Buses: These are exceptionally reliable. Even in heavy snow, they usually keep running on main routes when cars are stuck. Download the “Lothian Buses” app for live tracking.
- Trams: Trams are generally unaffected by wind or rain, making them the most reliable link between the Airport and the City Center during storms.
- Walking: The Old Town (Royal Mile) is a wind tunnel. If it is blowing a gale, walk along the Cowgate (the valley floor) below the bridges to stay sheltered.
Indoor “Weather-Proof” Attractions
If the heavens open, abandon the outdoor sights and head to these locations which are grouped close together:
- Chambers Street: The National Museum of Scotland is huge, free, and can easily occupy 4 hours.
- The Royal Mile (Top): Camera Obscura, The Whisky Experience, and the Castle are all within 200 meters of each other.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the wettest month in Edinburgh? October is statistically the wettest month in Edinburgh. It sees the highest average rainfall and frequent Atlantic storms.
Does it snow often in Edinburgh? Snow falls on the hills (Pentlands) frequently in winter, but it rarely settles deep in the city center for long due to the proximity to the sea and the “urban heat island” effect. Expect slush and ice rather than powder.
What is “The Haar”? The Haar is a cold sea fog that rolls in from the North Sea, most commonly in late spring and early summer (May-June). It can turn a sunny day cold and grey in minutes, primarily affecting coastal areas like Leith and Portobello.
Is Edinburgh windy? Yes. Edinburgh is windier than London. The city’s topography (hills and valleys) creates wind tunnels, particularly around the Castle and the Bridges.
When is the best time to visit for good weather? May and June are generally considered the best months. They offer the longest daylight hours, the lowest rainfall (May), and the highest chance of sunshine before the summer “Haar” becomes frequent.
Do I need an umbrella in Edinburgh? Generally, no. The wind makes umbrellas useless or dangerous. A waterproof coat with a sturdy hood is a much better investment.
How cold is Edinburgh in winter? Average highs are around 6°C or 7°C. It rarely drops far below freezing during the day, but the “wind chill” factor can make it feel like -5°C.
What are the daylight hours in winter? They are very short. In mid-December, the sun rises around 8:40 AM and sets around 3:40 PM, giving you less than 7 hours of daylight.
Is the Edinburgh Festival in August rainy? It is a mix. August weather is usually warm (18°C), but it can be humid and showery. You will likely experience both sunshine and rain during a standard festival week.
Can I climb Arthur’s Seat in the rain? It is not recommended. The paths on Arthur’s Seat are polished rock and mud. When wet, they become dangerously slippery. If it is raining, stick to the lower paths or paved areas.
Is the airport disrupted by weather often? Edinburgh Airport handles fog and ice well, but high winds (Crosswinds) can occasionally cause delays or diversions. The tram line to the airport is very resilient to weather.
What is “taps aff” weather? “Taps aff” (Tops off) is a local slang for any sunny day where the temperature exceeds roughly 15°C. You will see locals sunbathing in Princes Street Gardens, even if tourists are still wearing jackets.
