Edinburgh Weather in August

August in Edinburgh brings pleasant temperatures around 19°C (66°F) during the day, dropping to 12°C (54°F) at night, with quite a bit of rainfall expected, averaging around 86 mm (3.4 in) for the month.

Rainfall in Edinburgh in August

Typically, about 16 days will experience rainfall, with an average of 86 mm (3.4 in) for the month. Neither particularly heavy nor particularly frequent, the rain this month is about average. A light jacket should be enough on most wet days.

Temperature in Edinburgh in August

Daytime highs in Edinburgh in August reach 19°C (66°F), with nights around 12°C (54°F). Summer occurs in August. The difference between afternoon and evening temperatures is usually noticeable. Nights drop to around 12°C (54°F), which is noticeably cooler than the daytime. A light jacket for the evening is a sensible addition, and the cool nights tend to make sleeping comfortable.

Sunshine in Edinburgh in August

The month experiences a moderate amount of sunlight, with 160 hours of sunshine. This provides a nice balance between sunshine and clouds.

Wind Speed in Edinburgh in August

In August, average wind speeds reach 4 m/s (8 knots), leading to light to moderate breezes. Conditions vary from day to day, with both calm and windier periods.

Average water temperature in August

With water at 13°C (55°F), it's on the cooler side. Keen swimmers won't be put off, but those who prefer warm water may find it less enjoyable.

If you're inclined towards comfortable temperatures and drier conditions, August is a good time to visit Edinburgh.

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For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit the United Kingdom, check out our Edinburgh's climate page.

Edinburgh Temperature in August

Min Temperature 12°C (54°F)  

Max Temperature 19°C (66°F)  

Water Temperature 13°C (55°F) *  

Chance of Rain 53%  

Precipitation 86 mm (3.4 in)  

Rainy days 16 days  

Humidity 80% *  

Windspeed 4 m/s (8 knots) *  

Sunshine 160 hours *  

Percentage Sunshine 31% *  

* Data from: Edinburgh, Scotland (9 KM, 5 Miles).

Daily Historical Temperatures

50-year average (1976-2025)

Based on our historical records, temperatures in Edinburgh typically stay consistent throughout August, with daily highs averaging around 19°C (66°F). Nights are cool, with lows typically ranging from 9°C (48°F) to 12°C (54°F).

Average temperatures in August

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Daily Historical Precipitation

50-year average (1976-2025)

Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.

Average precipitation in August

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Historical weather for Edinburgh in August

Browse day-by-day weather records for Edinburgh spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.

Historical weather Temperatures Precipitation

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Edinburgh historical weather extremes in August

Based on weather observations in Edinburgh between 1976 and 2025, these are the recorded extremes during August.

• Edinburgh recorded its highest August temperature of 30°C (86°F) on August 2, 1990.
• The lowest daytime temperature in August was 12°C (54°F), recorded on August 11, 1993.
• Nighttime temperatures dropped to 3°C (37°F) on August 27, 2014, marking the coldest August night on record.
• The heaviest August precipitation occurred on August 11, 2011, when 44 mm (1.7 in) of precipitation fell.

What to Wear in Edinburgh in August

For Edinburgh in August, you'll want flexible clothing. It's wise to pack cotton shirts, comfortable shorts, and a pair of jeans for cooler evenings. A light sweater or jacket is useful for air-conditioned spaces (like buses) or unexpected cool moments. High rain levels are expected, so pack waterproof gear and an umbrella or poncho. Expect water temperatures of around 13°C (55°F), which is definitely too cold for comfortable swimming. Your luggage space is better used for other items. Bring sunglasses since you'll have some sunny periods throughout the month

What To Do in Edinburgh in August

We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.

Swimming

6/10

Cycling

9/10

Walking

9/10

Camping

8/10

Outdoor sports

9/10

Select a Month

Check the conditions for any month of the year.

• January
• February
• March
• April

• May
• June
• July
• August

• September
• October
• November
• December

For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit the United Kingdom, check out our Edinburgh's climate page.

More climate data for Edinburgh

Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity Wind Speed Water Temp

See the full Edinburgh climate overview or explore weather in the United Kingdom.