Ilkley Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit

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

Climate overview of Ilkley

Ilkley, West Yorkshire, United Kingdom, experiences significant temperature variation throughout the year. Summers bring daytime highs of 20°C (68°F) in July, while winters cool to 7°C (45°F) in January.

With around 1011 mm (40 in) of annual rain/snowfall, Ilkley has a notably wet climate. However, this rain/snowfall is not evenly distributed, the city has pleasant summers and cold winters. The wettest month is December. The sunniest month is May, with 5.8 hours of sunshine per day on average.

Ilkley Weather by Month

Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Ilkley - and find the best time to visit.

Monthly Temperature in Ilkley

Depending on the time of the year, temperatures range from pleasant to chilly in Ilkley. Average daytime temperatures reach a pleasant 20°C (68°F) in July. In January, the coolest month of the year, temperatures drop to a chilly 7°C (45°F).

At night, temperatures range from around 11°C (52°F) in July to 2°C (36°F) in January.

Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.

Temperature ranges by month

Rainfall in Ilkley

Ilkley has a relatively rain/snowy climate with high precipitation levels, averaging 1011 mm (40 in) of rain/snowfall annually. Despite minor fluctuations, Ilkley enjoys fairly consistent precipitation throughout the year. In December, you can expect around 95 mm (3.7 in) of precipitation, while in May, Ilkley receives about 72 mm (2.8 in). For more details, please visit our Ilkley Precipitation page.

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

Sunshine Hours in Ilkley

Ilkley can be enjoyed more throughout the sunniest month of May under a blue sky, with approximately 5.8 hours of sunshine daily. In contrast, the city experiences much darker days in December, with only 1.3 hours of sunlight per day.

Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.

Monthly hours of sunshine

Data from: Bradford, the United Kingdom (15 KM, 9 Miles).

Daily hours of sunshine

Data from: Bradford, the United Kingdom (15 KM, 9 Miles).

Best Time to Visit Ilkley

Conditions in Ilkley are generally most comfortable in July. They are typically least comfortable in January, February, March, November and December.

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: July and August
  • Most sunshine: May and July
  • Seasonal pattern: Pleasant summers and cold winters

Frequently asked questions about the climate in Ilkley

What is the best time to visit Ilkley?

July typically offers the most optimal weather in Ilkley. In contrast, January, February, March, November and December tend to have less optimal conditions. Ilkley has pleasant summers and cold winters.

What temperatures can I expect in Ilkley?

Daytime highs range from 7°C (45°F) in January to 20°C (68°F) in July. Nighttime lows range from 2°C (36°F) to 11°C (52°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.

How much rain does Ilkley get?

Annual rainfall is around 1011 mm (40 in). December is the wettest month with 95 mm (3.7 in), while May is the driest with 72 mm (2.8 in).

How sunny is Ilkley?

Ilkley receives around 1,336 hours of sunshine per year. May is the sunniest month with 175 hours, while December is the cloudiest with just 38 hours.

Ilkley 3-Day Forecast

Ilkley on the map

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