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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.

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).

Edinburgh Weather by Month

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

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

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

Historical weather records 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.

Edinburgh historical weather extremes in August

Based on weather observations in Edinburgh between 1976 and 2026, 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.

Best Places in the United Kingdom in August

Find out more about the weather in the United Kingdom and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of the United Kingdom in August →

perfect weather
pleasant
tolerable
unpleasant
poor

Perfect weather is subjective. On this map perfect weather has been defined with temperatures between 20°C (68°F) and 29°C (84°F) and not too much precipitation (less than 90 mm (3.5 in) a month).

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

Edinburgh 3-Day Forecast

Popular in August

Where to go in August - average daytime high across popular destinations.

Bucket list

Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.