Edinburgh
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Edinburgh Weather in October

During October, Edinburgh experiences moderate daytime temperatures of 13°C (55°F) and cooler nights around 7°C (45°F). As the wettest month of the year, expect frequent rainfall.

Rainfall in Edinburgh in October

Since this is the rainiest month of the year, it's a good idea to carry an umbrella just in case. The climate data from previous years indicates about 17 days of rain, averaging 89 mm (3.5 in) for the month. Rain this month is fairly typical, a standard mix of wet and dry days with no particularly heavy or persistent showers.

Temperature in Edinburgh in October

October in Edinburgh brings moderate temperatures, with highs of 13°C (55°F) and nights around 7°C (45°F). This creates a mild day-to-night pattern that is generally easy to manage with the right clothing. With overnight lows of 7°C (45°F), nights are cold. The cold air does make for deep, comfortable sleep if you have enough blankets.

Sunshine in Edinburgh in October

With about 101 hours of sunshine, the area enjoys a nice balance of sun and overcast, creating a pleasant environment.

Wind Speed in Edinburgh in October

October sees wind speeds averaging 4 m/s (8 knots). You'll experience variable conditions with moderate winds that create small waves on water and keep branches moving. Conditions range from light winds to moderate breezes throughout the month.

Average water temperature in October

At 11°C (52°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 October

Min Temperature
7°C (45°F)
Max Temperature
13°C (55°F)
Water Temperature
11°C (52°F) *
Chance of Rain
58%
Precipitation
89 mm (3.5 in)
Rainy days
17 days
Humidity
82% *
Windspeed
4 m/s (8 knots) *
Sunshine
101 hours *
Percentage Sunshine
17% *
* 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 October, with daily highs averaging around 13°C (55°F). Nights are cold, with lows typically ranging from 5°C (41°F) to 8°C (46°F).

Average temperatures in October

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 October

Historical weather records for Edinburgh in October

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 October

Based on 49 years of weather observations (1976-2025), these are the most extreme conditions recorded in Edinburgh.

  • Edinburgh recorded its highest October temperature of 21°C (70°F) on October 27, 2005.
  • On October 28, 2008, Edinburgh saw its coldest October day with temperatures maxing out at 5°C (41°F).
  • Nighttime temperatures dropped to -5°C (23°F) on October 29, 2018, marking the coldest October night on record.
  • The wettest day in October Edinburgh was on October 17, 1993 with 49 mm (1.9 in) of precipitation.

Best Places in the United Kingdom in October

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 October →

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 October

The weather can swing between comfortable and chilly in October, so flexibility is key. Pack a variety of tops, at least one warm layer, and both shorts and long pants. This gives you options no matter what the day brings. Expect heavy rainfall, so bring good rain protection and waterproof bags. The water temperature sits at about 11°C (52°F), which is too chilly for most people to enjoy swimming. Leave the swimsuit at home unless you love cold water. Sunglasses could come in handy during the sunnier parts of your trip.

What To Do in Edinburgh in October

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

  • Swimming
    5/10
  • Cycling
    6/10
  • Walking
    6/10
  • Camping
    4/10
  • Outdoor sports
    9/10

Edinburgh 3-Day Forecast

Popular in October

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

Bucket list

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