Scarborough Weather in January
January in Scarborough averages 8°C (46°F) during the day and 3°C (37°F) at night. Quite a bit of rainfall is typical this month, with around 75 mm (3 in) on average. An umbrella is a good idea.
Rainfall in Scarborough in January
Historically, January sees about 21 days of rain, with a monthly average of 75 mm (3 in). With rain spread across many days but low totals, showers are typically short and light rather than heavy.
Temperature in Scarborough in January
In January, Scarborough gets low temperatures, with highs of 8°C (46°F). Nights cool to around 3°C (37°F). January is a notable month of the winter season. Even at the warmest part of the day, temperatures stay low. Dressing warmly from the start is the sensible approach. With overnight lows of 3°C (37°F), nights are cold. The cold air does make for deep, comfortable sleep if you have enough blankets. Typically, it's the chilliest month of the year, making it a great time for cozying up indoors. Do make sure you're prepared by packing the right winter outfits.
Sunshine in Scarborough in January
With limited sunshine this month, there are about 56 hours of sun. It's ideal for those who prefer a cooler, cloudier climate.
Average water temperature in January
The water sits at 7°C (45°F) this month, which is well below what most people consider swimmable. Wetsuits help, but expect it to still feel cold.January in Scarborough has its charm. However, if you're seeking pleasant, dry and sunny weather, our weather planner can help you explore other destinations 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 Scarborough's climate page.
Scarborough Temperature in January
Min Temperature
3°C (37°F)
Max Temperature
8°C (46°F)
Water Temperature
7°C (45°F)
Chance of Rain
68%
Precipitation
75 mm (3 in)
Rainy days
21 days
Sunshine
56 hours
Percentage Sunshine
18%
Daily Historical Temperatures
51-year average (1976-2026)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Scarborough typically stay consistent throughout January, with daily highs averaging around 8°C (46°F). Nights are cold, with lows around 1°C (34°F).
Average temperatures in January
Daily Historical Precipitation
51-year average (1976-2026)
Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.
Average precipitation in January
Historical weather for Scarborough in January
Browse day-by-day weather records for Scarborough spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
Scarborough historical weather extremes in January
Our historical data for Scarborough spans 2000 to 2025, revealing these weather extremes.
- On January 9, 2015, temperatures climbed to 13°C (55°F), marking the warmest January day on record.
- The lowest daytime temperature in January was -2°C (28°F), recorded on January 25, 2013.
- Scarborough registered its coldest January night on January 18, 2024, with temperatures dropping to -7°C (19°F).
- Peak precipitation in January occurred on January 5, 2016, when 48 mm (1.9 in) of precipitation was measured.
Best Places in the United Kingdom in January
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 January →
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What to Wear in Scarborough in January
Dress warmly and in layers for your trip to Scarborough in January. A good base layer system works wonders. Start with good thermal underwear, add something warm like a fleece sweater, then finish with a waterproof jacket on top. Wet weather is likely, so pack waterproof gear for multiple rainy days. With water temperatures around 7°C (45°F), the water is quite cold for swimming. You can skip the swimwear unless you're particularly tough. With limited sunshine expected, sunglasses aren't a priority for packing.What To Do in Scarborough in January
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 Scarborough's climate page.
Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Water Temp
See the full Scarborough climate overview or explore weather in the United Kingdom.
