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Leeds Weather in May

May in Leeds brings moderate temperatures, with daytime highs of 16°C (61°F) and nights around 7°C (45°F). Quite a bit of rainfall is expected, around 63 mm (2.5 in), so pack an umbrella.

Rainfall in Leeds in May

Climate statistics over the past 30 years suggest around 15 days of rain, with 63 mm (2.5 in) average for the month. A fairly balanced picture this month, some wet days but nothing too extreme in terms of intensity.

Temperature in Leeds in May

May in Leeds brings moderate temperatures, with highs of 16°C (61°F) and nights around 7°C (45°F). A light jacket or extra layer can be useful, especially outside the warmest hours of the day. Nights fall to 7°C (45°F), which is cold enough to feel it indoors too. A good thick duvet makes all the difference for a comfortable night's sleep.

Sunshine in Leeds in May

The area enjoys a moderate level of sunlight, with around 173 hours. It's a good balance between sunny and cloudy days.

If you prefer enjoying temperate temperatures and rain-free days, July and August typically offer the best circumstances. If you're seeking pleasant, dry and sunny weather somewhere else in the world, our weather planner can help you explore other options.

Leeds Temperature in May

Min Temperature
7°C (45°F)
Max Temperature
16°C (61°F)
Chance of Rain
48%
Precipitation
63 mm (2.5 in)
Rainy days
15 days
Sunshine
173 hours
Percentage Sunshine
35%

Leeds Weather by Month

Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Leeds - and find the best time to visit.

Daily Historical Temperatures

50-year average (1976-2025)

Based on our historical records, temperatures in Leeds typically stay consistent throughout May, with daily highs averaging around 16°C (61°F). Nights are cold, with lows typically ranging from 5°C (41°F) to 8°C (46°F).

Average temperatures in May

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 May

Historical weather records for Leeds in May

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 May

Based on weather observations in Leeds between 1976 and 2026, these are the recorded extremes during May.

  • The warmest day in May was on May 25, 2026, with a maximum of 30°C (86°F).
  • The lowest daytime temperature in May was 6°C (43°F), recorded on May 1, 1979.
  • The coldest night in May in Leeds was on May 5, 1981, with a minimum of -2°C (28°F).

Best Places in the United Kingdom in May

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 May →

perfect weather
pleasant
tolerable
unpleasant
poor

Perfect weather is subjective. On this map perfect weather has been defined with temperatures between 20°C (68°F) and 29°C (84°F) and not too much precipitation (less than 90 mm (3.5 in) a month).

What to Wear in Leeds in May

For Leeds in May, you'll want flexible clothing. It's wise to pack cotton shirts, comfortable shorts, and a pair of jeans for cooler evenings. A light sweater or jacket is useful for air-conditioned spaces (like buses) or unexpected cool moments. Rain is likely on several days, so bring a good rain jacket. It won't hurt to bring your sunglasses along, as you'll see some sunny periods.

What To Do in Leeds in May

We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.

  • Swimming
    5/10
  • Cycling
    6/10
  • Walking
    6/10
  • Barbeque
    6/10
  • Camping
    4/10
  • Outdoor sports
    10/10

Leeds 3-Day Forecast

More climate data for Leeds

Popular in May

Where to go in May - average daytime high across popular destinations.

Bucket list

Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.