Shetland Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Shetland.
Climate overview of Shetland
Shetland, Scotland, enjoys a steady climate throughout the year, with daytime temperatures typically around 11°C (52°F). August is the warmest month at 15°C (59°F), while February is the coolest at 8°C (46°F).
Rainfall is high, totalling around 1165 mm (46 in) per year. January is the wettest month and May the driest. The sunniest month is May, with 6.1 hours of sunshine per day on average.
Shetland Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Shetland - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Shetland
The temperature in Shetland remains steady throughout the year, providing a consistently moderate climate. Average maximum daytime temperatures range from a moderate 15°C (59°F) in August, the warmest time of the year, to a chilly 8°C (46°F) during cooler months like February.
At night, you can expect temperatures ranging from 12°C (54°F) in August to around 5°C (41°F) during February.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Shetland
Shetland has a relatively rainy climate with high precipitation levels, averaging 1165 mm (46 in) of rainfall annually. Significant seasonal changes in precipitation occur throughout the year. In the wettest month, January it receives high rainfall, averaging 136 mm (5.4 in) of precipitation, recorded across 26 rainy days. In contrast, the driest month May brings less rainfall, with 52 mm (2 in) over 17 rainy days. For more details, please visit our Shetland 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 Shetland
Seasonal changes in sunshine hours are quite dramatic in Shetland. While May receives considerable daily sunshine with up to 6.1 hours, December marks the darkest time of the year, where sunshine is scarce with only 0.6 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 Shetland
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
- Best overall: July, August and September
- Warmest weather: July, August and September
- Most sunshine: May
- Fewer rainy days: April, May, June, July and August
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Shetland
What is the best time to visit Shetland?
July, August and September typically offer the most optimal weather in Shetland. In contrast, January, February, March, April, May, October, November and December tend to have less optimal conditions.
What temperatures can I expect in Shetland?
Daytime highs range from 8°C (46°F) in February to 15°C (59°F) in August. Nighttime lows range from 5°C (41°F) to 12°C (54°F). Temperatures stay relatively stable year-round.
How much rain does Shetland get?
Annual rainfall is around 1165 mm (46 in). January is the wettest month with 136 mm (5.4 in), while May is the driest with 52 mm (2 in).
How sunny is Shetland?
Shetland receives around 1,111 hours of sunshine per year. May is the sunniest month with 182 hours, while December is the cloudiest with just 18 hours.
Shetland 3-Day Forecast
Shetland 3-Day Forecast
Shetland on the map
Shetland is highlighted - select any city to see its climate.
Popular this month
Where to go in July - average daytime high across popular destinations.
Glasgow
19°C (66°F) Edinburgh19°C (66°F) Dundee20°C (68°F) Aberdeen
18°C (64°F) Oban
17°C (63°F) Strathy East16°C (61°F) Shetland14°C (57°F) 
Bucket list
Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.