Fort William Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit

Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Fort William.

Climate overview of Fort William

The climate in Fort William, Highlands, United Kingdom, is marked by large temperature swings across the seasons, ranging from 18°C (64°F) in July to 6°C (43°F) in February.

The city receives considerable rain/snowfall, with around 2065 mm (81 in) annually. January is the wettest month. It has a distinct rainy season from October to March. The sunniest month is May, with 6.3 hours of sunshine per day on average.

Fort William Weather by Month

Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Fort William — and find the best time to visit.

Monthly Temperature in Fort William

In Fort William, temperatures differ significantly between summer and winter months. Typically, average maximum daytime temperatures range from a moderate 18°C (64°F) in July to a chilly 6°C (43°F) in the coolest month, February.

Nights vary from 10°C (50°F) in July to around 0°C (32°F) during the colder months.

Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.

Temperature ranges by month

Rainfall in Fort William

Fort William experiences significant rain/snowfall throughout the year, averaging 2065 mm (81 in) of precipitation annually. Fort William offers a pleasant mix of wetter and slightly drier months. The difference in precipitation between the wettest month January (232 mm (9.1 in)) and the driest month April (125 mm (4.9 in)) is not too significant. For more details, please visit our Fort William Precipitation page.

The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow

Sunshine Hours in Fort William

For those who appreciate different seasons, Fort William serves as an ideal destination. Expect longer, more sun-filled days in May with an average of 6.3 hours of sunshine daily, and embrace the darker days in December, offering only 1.0 hours of daily sunlight.

Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.

Monthly hours of sunshine

Data from: Oban, Scotland (49 KM, 30 Miles).

Daily hours of sunshine

Data from: Oban, Scotland (49 KM, 30 Miles).

Best Time to Visit Fort William

The best time to visit Fort William is during June, July and August, when the weather provides comfortable temperatures between 16°C (61°F) and 18°C (64°F). With rainfall of 131 mm (5.2 in) to 157 mm (6.2 in), you can expect pleasant weather during your visit in these months.

Be prepared for heavier rainfall during January, February, March, September, October, November and December, the wettest period of the year.

Wondering where to travel based on your weather preferences? Our recommendation tool helps you find destinations with your ideal climate conditions. Use our weather planner to find your perfect destination.

Frequently asked questions about the climate in Fort William

What is the best time to visit Fort William?

July typically offers the most optimal weather in Fort William. In contrast, January, February, March, April, October, November and December tend to have less optimal conditions. Fort William has a distinct rainy season from October to March.

What temperatures can I expect in Fort William?

Daytime highs range from 6°C (43°F) in February to 18°C (64°F) in July. Nighttime lows range from 0°C (32°F) to 10°C (50°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.

How much rain does Fort William get?

Annual rainfall is around 2065 mm (81 in). January is the wettest month with 232 mm (9.1 in), while April is the driest with 125 mm (4.9 in).

How sunny is Fort William?

Fort William receives around 1,208 hours of sunshine per year. May is the sunniest month with 189 hours, while December is the cloudiest with just 31 hours.

Fort William 3-Day Forecast

Fort William 3-Day Forecast

Fort William on the map

Fort William is highlighted — select any city to see its climate.

Popular this month

Where to go in July — average daytime high across popular destinations.

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