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Live forecasts update automatically; written guidance last reviewed 23 June 2026 by the Coast Brief Weather Desk. Data from the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) and other national met services via Open-Meteo.
Live data from Open-Meteo · updates automatically ·
Edinburgh’s weather is cool and changeable, with mild summers and chilly, damp winters; the live forecast above shows the immediate conditions for the Scottish capital.
What is Edinburgh’s climate like?
Edinburgh has a temperate maritime climate, strongly influenced by the North Sea and the Firth of Forth. This means it rarely sees the extreme heat or cold found further inland, but the city is often breezy and subject to changeable weather throughout the year.
- Summers (June to August) are mild, with average highs around 17–19°C. Rain is possible at any time, but daylight lasts late into the evening.
- Winters (December to February) are cold but not severe, with highs near 6–7°C. Frost and occasional snow can occur, especially in higher parts of the city.
- Spring and autumn are transitional and can be particularly unsettled. The weather in Edinburgh 10 days out can shift markedly from the original outlook.
When is the best time to visit Edinburgh?
The most dependable weather arrives in late spring and early autumn. For specific festivals or events, you will need to plan around the season, as the edinburgh weather by month varies significantly.
- May and September often provide the best balance of mild temperatures and fewer rainy days.
- For the August Festival season, expect busy crowds and a mix of sun and showers; the edinburgh weather forecast 14 days in advance will give a general trend but not a precise detail.
- If you prefer to avoid the coldest conditions, avoid December and January. The edinburgh weather december outlook is typically grey, windy and damp.
Does Edinburgh get snow every year?
Yes, Edinburgh sees some snow most winters, but heavy accumulations are rare in the city centre. Higher suburbs and the Pentland Hills can get more significant, lasting snow cover for a few days.
Is Edinburgh weather forecast 21 days reliable?
Long-range forecasts for 21 or 30 days show only broad trends. For a reliable edinburgh weather forecast 14 days or shorter, the local Met Office provides the best outlook. For the most accurate plan, check the edinburgh weather forecast 30 days purely as a pattern signal.
Why does Edinburgh feel colder than the temperature suggests?
The city’s coastal position means it is often windy, which lowers the perceived temperature. Even a mild 8°C day can feel raw with a strong easterly wind off the North Sea. The edinburgh weather forecast in both Celsius and fahrenheit is widely available online.
For other destinations, see our Australia weather hub or check the 10-day forecast page for a wider outlook. If you need a severe weather update, we keep a current severe weather warning page. For local observations, see the weather radar and BOM weather coverage. More information on our data and standards can be found on the sources page.