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Kirkwall Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Kirkwall.
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Climate overview of Kirkwall
With consistently stable weather, Kirkwall, Orkney Islands, United Kingdom, sees little seasonal temperature change. Daytime highs average 11°C (52°F), ranging from 15°C (59°F) in August to 8°C (46°F) in February.
The city has a wet climate, receiving around 1137 mm (45 in) of rainfall per year. November is the wettest month. Sunshine peaks in May, when the city sees around 6.4 hours of sunshine per day.
Kirkwall Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Kirkwall - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Kirkwall
The climate in Kirkwall remains fairly constant, offering chilly temperatures throughout the year. On average, daytime temperatures range from a moderate 15°C (59°F) in August to a chilly 8°C (46°F) in February.
Nighttime temperatures range from 12°C (54°F) in August to 5°C (41°F) in February.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Kirkwall
Kirkwall is known for its substantial rainfall, with annual precipitation reaching 1137 mm (45 in). The seasons in Kirkwall bring significant changes in precipitation. The wettest month, November, receives high rainfall, with an average of 135 mm (5.3 in) of precipitation. This rainfall is distributed across 24 rainy days.
In contrast, the driest month, May, experiences much less rainfall, totaling 57 mm (2.2 in) over 16 rainy days. These distinct seasonal differences provide diverse experiences throughout the year. For more details, please visit our Kirkwall 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 Kirkwall
In Kirkwall, summer days are longer and more sunny, with daily sunshine hours peaking at 6.4 hours in May. As the darker season arrives, the brightness of the sun becomes less. December sees a soft sun for only 0.9 hours per average day.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Best Time to Visit Kirkwall
For the most comfortable conditions available during the year, consider visiting Kirkwall in July and August. Conditions are usually least comfortable in January, February, March, April, May, October, November and December.
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
Jan
wet
Feb
wet
Mar
cold
Apr
cold
May
cold
Jun
mixed
Jul
good
Aug
good
Sep
mixed
Oct
wet
Nov
wet
Dec
wet
- Best overall: July and August
- Warmest weather: July, August and September
- Most sunshine: May
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Kirkwall
What is the best time to visit Kirkwall?
July and August typically offer the most optimal weather in Kirkwall. In contrast, January, February, March, April, May, October, November and December tend to have less optimal conditions.
What temperatures can I expect in Kirkwall?
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 Kirkwall get?
Annual rainfall is around 1137 mm (45 in). November is the wettest month with 135 mm (5.3 in), while May is the driest with 57 mm (2.2 in).
How sunny is Kirkwall?
Kirkwall receives around 1,181 hours of sunshine per year. May is the sunniest month with 192 hours, while December is the cloudiest with just 26 hours.
Kirkwall 3-Day Forecast
Kirkwall on the map
Kirkwall is highlighted - select any city to see its climate.
Popular in October
Where to go in October - average daytime high across popular destinations.
London
16°C (61°F) Bath15°C (59°F) Torquay16°C (61°F) Manchester14°C (57°F) York15°C (59°F) Blackpool
15°C (59°F) Edinburgh13°C (55°F) Glasgow14°C (57°F) Bucket list
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