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 January.
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, with mild summers and cold winters. 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, January.
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
The average number of days each month with precipitation
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
Daily hours of sunshine
Best Time to Visit Fort William
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
- Best overall: July
- Warmest weather: June, July and August
- Most sunshine: May
- Seasonal pattern: A distinct rainy season from October to March, with mild summers and cold winters
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, with mild summers and cold winters.
What temperatures can I expect in Fort William?
Daytime highs range from 6°C (43°F) in January 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 on the map
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