Leeds Weather in December
December in Leeds brings low temperatures, with highs of 8°C (46°F) and nights dropping to 2°C (36°F). Rainfall is on the higher side this month, averaging around 77 mm (3 in), so keep a rain jacket handy.
Rainfall in Leeds in December
Expect around 18 days of rain based on historical data, with 77 mm (3 in) average. Rain falls on many days this month, but usually in relatively small amounts. A light waterproof is more useful than a heavy umbrella.
Temperature in Leeds in December
Temperatures in Leeds in December top out at 8°C (46°F) and drop to 2°C (36°F) overnight. Experience the winter season in December. It stays cool throughout the day, so warm layers are a good idea from morning to evening. With lows around 2°C (36°F), nights are cold. The upside is that cool, crisp nights are often the best for a deep sleep.
Sunshine in Leeds in December
The city usually sees around 24 hours of sunlight, indicating fewer sunny days.December in Leeds can still be great, but if you prefer pleasant temperatures along with dry and sunny conditions, our weather planner can help you explore other options in the world.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit the United Kingdom, check out our Leeds's climate page.
Leeds Temperature in December
Daily Historical Temperatures
50-year average (1976-2025)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Leeds typically stay consistent throughout December, with daily highs averaging around 8°C (46°F). Nights are cold, with lows around 2°C (36°F).
Average temperatures in December
Daily Historical Precipitation
50-year average (1976-2025)
Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.
Average precipitation in December
Historical weather for Leeds in December
Browse day-by-day weather records for Leeds spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
Leeds historical weather extremes in December
Based on 49 years of weather observations in Leeds between 1976 and 2025, these are the recorded extremes.
- The hottest December day on record in Leeds reached 15°C (59°F) (December 14, 1998).
- On December 17, 1981, Leeds saw its coldest December day with temperatures maxing out at -5°C (23°F).
- The coldest night in December in Leeds was on December 18, 1981, with a minimum of -14°C (7°F).
- The wettest December day on record brought 44 mm (1.7 in) of precipitation to Leeds (December 26, 2015).
Best Places in the United Kingdom in December
Find out more about the weather in the United Kingdom and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of the United Kingdom in December →
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What to Wear in Leeds in December
We recommend to layer up for chilly conditions in Leeds in December. You could start with thermal underwear or a good base layer to keep your core warm on the cooler days this month. Maybe also add a sweater or fleece, and top it off with a windproof jacket. Rain is likely on several days, so bring a good rain jacket. Sunglasses aren't essential this month, though you might want them for the occasional bright moment.What To Do in Leeds in December
We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit the United Kingdom, check out our Leeds's climate page.
See the full Leeds climate overview or explore weather in the United Kingdom.