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Edinburgh Weather in March

Edinburgh in March sees low temperatures, with highs around 10°C (50°F) and overnight lows of 3°C (37°F). Rainfall is fairly high at around 68 mm (2.7 in) on average, so pack waterproofs just in case.

Rainfall in Edinburgh in March

Climate statistics over the past 30 years suggest around 17 days of rain, with 68 mm (2.7 in) average for the month. Rain falls on many days this month, but usually in relatively small amounts. A light waterproof is more useful than a heavy umbrella.

Temperature in Edinburgh in March

In March, expect low temperatures in Edinburgh, with highs of 10°C (50°F) and lows of 3°C (37°F) at night. It stays cool throughout the day, so warm layers are a good idea from morning to evening. Nights drop to 3°C (37°F). Cold nights like these are actually great for sleeping well, as long as you have a warm enough duvet.

Sunshine in Edinburgh in March

The month brings about 116 hours of sunlight, offering a comfortable mix of sun and overcast.

Wind Speed in Edinburgh in March

Wind speeds average 5 m/s (10 knots) during March. At this speed, gentle to moderate breezes make small trees sway and the wind creates whitecaps on water bodies. Daily variations range from moderate winds to stronger breezes, creating excellent conditions for sailing, kite flying and wind sports.

Average water temperature in March

At 5°C (41°F), the water is too cold for most people to swim comfortably. A wetsuit is pretty much essential if you plan to go in.

Our weather planner can help you find worldwide destinations with pleasant weather during this period. July and August typically offer the best weather for Edinburgh.

Edinburgh Temperature in March

Min Temperature
3°C (37°F)
Max Temperature
10°C (50°F)
Water Temperature
5°C (41°F) *
Chance of Rain
57%
Precipitation
68 mm (2.7 in)
Rainy days
17 days
Humidity
81% *
Windspeed
5 m/s (10 knots) *
Sunshine
116 hours *
Percentage Sunshine
30% *
* 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 March, with daily highs averaging around 10°C (50°F). Nights are cold, with lows typically ranging from 1°C (34°F) to 4°C (39°F).

Average temperatures in March

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 March

Historical weather records for Edinburgh in March

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 March

Based on 37 years of weather observations (1989-2026), these are the most extreme conditions recorded in Edinburgh.

  • The warmest day in March was on March 27, 2012, with a maximum of 20°C (68°F).
  • The lowest daytime temperature in March was -1°C (30°F), recorded on March 2, 2001.
  • Edinburgh registered its coldest March night on March 1, 2001, with temperatures dropping to -10°C (14°F).
  • The wettest day in March Edinburgh was on March 30, 2010 with 36 mm (1.4 in) of precipitation.

Best Places in the United Kingdom in March

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 March →

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 March

Dress warmly and in layers for your trip to Edinburgh in March. A good base layer system works wonders. Start with good thermal underwear, add something warm like a fleece sweater, then finish with a waterproof jacket on top. Wet weather is likely, so pack waterproof gear for multiple rainy days. With water temperatures around 5°C (41°F), the water is quite cold for swimming. You can skip the swimwear unless you're particularly tough. Bring sunglasses since you'll have some sunny periods throughout the month

What To Do in Edinburgh in March

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

  • Swimming
    5/10
  • Cycling
    4/10
  • Walking
    4/10
  • Camping
    4/10
  • Outdoor sports
    4/10

Edinburgh 3-Day Forecast

Popular in March

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

Bucket list

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