Edinburgh Weather in January
January in Edinburgh brings low temperatures, with highs of 8°C (46°F) and nights dropping to 2°C (36°F). Rainfall is on the higher side this month, averaging around 84 mm (3.3 in), so keep a rain jacket handy.
Rainfall in Edinburgh in January
Historically, the month has about 18 days of rain, averaging 84 mm (3.3 in) in total. This is a month with many wet days but modest rainfall totals, so showers are generally light and easy to manage.
Temperature in Edinburgh in January
Daytime temperatures in Edinburgh reach 8°C (46°F) in January, dropping to 2°C (36°F) at night. January is known for being in the winter season. Temperatures remain on the cold side all day. A proper warm jacket is worth having, not just for evenings. With overnight lows of 2°C (36°F), nights are cold. The cold air does make for deep, comfortable sleep if you have enough blankets. It is the coldest month of the year, so be sure to pack proper winter clothing for the conditions.Pack accordingly with warm clothes.
Sunshine in Edinburgh in January
The area sees fewer sunny days, with a projection of about 54 hours of sunshine. This reduced sunlight makes it ideal for those who prefer overcast conditions over bright sunny days.
Wind Speed in Edinburgh in January
Average wind conditions reach 5 m/s (10 knots) in January. This creates lively weather with fresh winds that make small trees sway noticeably. Remember this is an average: some days are less windy while others have particularly active windy conditions.
Average water temperature in January
The water sits at 6°C (43°F) this month, which is well below what most people consider swimmable. Wetsuits help, but expect it to still feel cold.January in Edinburgh can still be great, but if you prefer pleasant temperatures along with dry and sunny conditions, our weather planner can help you explore other options in the world.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
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 January
Min Temperature
2°C (36°F)
Max Temperature
8°C (46°F)
Water Temperature
6°C (43°F) *
Chance of Rain
61%
Precipitation
84 mm (3.3 in)
Rainy days
18 days
Humidity
84% *
Windspeed
5 m/s (10 knots) *
Sunshine
54 hours *
Percentage Sunshine
22% *
Daily Historical Temperatures
51-year average (1976-2026)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Edinburgh typically stay consistent throughout January, with daily highs averaging around 8°C (46°F). Nights are cold, with lows around 1°C (34°F).
Average temperatures in January
Daily Historical Precipitation
51-year average (1976-2026)
Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.
Average precipitation in January
Historical weather for Edinburgh in January
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 January
The extremes listed below come from historical weather data collected in Edinburgh from 2000 through 2025.
- The hottest January day on record in Edinburgh reached 14°C (57°F) (January 24, 2016).
- The coldest January day was on January 8, 2010, with a maximum of -3°C (27°F).
- The lowest overnight temperature recorded in January was -10°C (14°F) (January 7, 2010).
- Peak precipitation in January occurred on January 10, 2016, when 24 mm (0.9 in) of precipitation was measured.
Best Places in the United Kingdom in January
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 January →
perfect weather
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unpleasant
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What to Wear in Edinburgh in January
Cold weather calls for smart layering in January. A thermal base layer makes a huge difference in staying warm. Add a wool sweater or fleece, then a wind-resistant outer jacket. Prepare for significant rainfall with proper waterproof clothing and shoes. Expect water temperatures of around 6°C (43°F), which is definitely too cold for comfortable swimming. Your luggage space is better used for other items. With limited sunshine expected, sunglasses aren't a priority for packing.What To Do in Edinburgh in January
We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit the United Kingdom, check out our Edinburgh's climate page.
Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity Wind Speed Water Temp
See the full Edinburgh climate overview or explore weather in the United Kingdom.
