Derry Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Derry.
Climate overview of Derry
Derry, Donegal County, Ireland, has a moderate seasonal temperature range, with July reaching 19°C (66°F) and January cooling to 9°C (48°F).
Rainfall is high, totalling around 1150 mm (45 in) per year. August is the wettest month and March the driest. The city also experiences pleasant summers and cold winters. The most sunshine falls in May, with an average of 6.8 hours of daily sunshine.
Derry Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Derry - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Derry
In Derry, seasonal changes bring about a moderate variation in temperatures. Average maximum daytime temperatures range from a pleasant 19°C (66°F) in July, the warmest time of the year, to a chilly 9°C (48°F) during cooler months like January.
At night, you can expect temperatures ranging from 12°C (54°F) in July to around 3°C (37°F) during January.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Derry
Derry is known for its substantial rainfall, with annual precipitation reaching 1150 mm (45 in). Year-round, Derry has a balanced climate with minimal variation in precipitation. The difference between the wettest month, August, with 107 mm (4.2 in), and the driest month, March, with 85 mm (3.3 in), is minimal. For more details, please visit our Derry Precipitation page.
The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow
The average number of days each month with precipitation
Sunshine Hours in Derry
Seasonal changes in sunshine hours are quite dramatic in Derry. While May receives considerable daily sunshine with up to 6.8 hours, December marks the darkest time of the year, where sunshine is scarce with only 1.3 hours of sunlight per day.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Best Time to Visit Derry
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
- Best overall: May, July, August, September and October
- Warmest weather: June, July and August
- Most sunshine: May
- Seasonal pattern: Pleasant summers and cold winters
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Derry
What is the best time to visit Derry?
May, July, August, September and October typically offer the most optimal weather in Derry. In contrast, January, February and December tend to have less optimal conditions. Derry has pleasant summers and cold winters.
What temperatures can I expect in Derry?
Daytime highs range from 9°C (48°F) in January to 19°C (66°F) in July. Nighttime lows range from 3°C (37°F) to 12°C (54°F).
How much rain does Derry get?
Annual rainfall is around 1150 mm (45 in). August is the wettest month with 107 mm (4.2 in), while March is the driest with 85 mm (3.3 in).
How sunny is Derry?
Derry receives around 1,342 hours of sunshine per year. May is the sunniest month with 203 hours, while December is the cloudiest with just 39 hours.
Derry 3-Day Forecast
Derry 3-Day Forecast
Derry on the map
Derry is highlighted - select any city to see its climate.
Popular this month
Where to go in July - average daytime high across popular destinations.
Cork
19°C (66°F) Kilkenny
20°C (68°F) Dublin20°C (68°F) Kenmare
19°C (66°F) Galway20°C (68°F) Killarney19°C (66°F) Westport19°C (66°F) Doolin18°C (64°F) 
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