Kirkwall
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Kirkwall Weather in January

With daytime temperatures of 9°C (48°F) and nighttime lows of 5°C (41°F), January in Kirkwall brings low temperatures during the day. Do keep in mind that quite a bit of rainfall is typical. Around 119 mm (4.7 in) falls on average.

Rainfall in Kirkwall in January

You can expect rain on around 25 days based on historical patterns, with 119 mm (4.7 in) average for the month. Wet weather is a regular and significant part of this month. Frequent days of rain combined with high totals means proper waterproofs are worth packing.

Temperature in Kirkwall in January

Daytime highs in Kirkwall in January reach 9°C (48°F), with nights around 5°C (41°F). The days stay cool from start to finish. Layering up well will make outdoor time much more comfortable. With overnight lows of 5°C (41°F), nights are cold. The cold air does make for deep, comfortable sleep if you have enough blankets.

Sunshine in Kirkwall in January

The month has fewer sunny days, with around 33 hours of sunshine.

If you're looking for dry conditions and comfortable temperatures, January may not be the ideal month to visit Kirkwall. Our weather planner can help you explore destinations with more pleasant weather conditions.

Kirkwall Temperature in January

Min Temperature
5°C (41°F)
Max Temperature
9°C (48°F)
Chance of Rain
82%
Precipitation
119 mm (4.7 in)
Rainy days
25 days
Sunshine
33 hours
Percentage Sunshine

Kirkwall Weather by Month

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

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
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 Kirkwall in January

We recommend to layer up for chilly conditions in Kirkwall in January. You could start with thermal underwear or a good base layer to keep your core warm on the cooler days this month. Maybe also add a sweater or fleece, and top it off with a windproof jacket. High rain levels are expected, so pack waterproof gear and an umbrella or poncho. Sunglasses aren't essential this month, though you might want them for the occasional bright moment.

What To Do in Kirkwall in January

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

  • Swimming
    4/10
  • Cycling
    4/10
  • Walking
    4/10
  • Camping
    3/10
  • Outdoor sports
    4/10

Kirkwall 3-Day Forecast

More climate data for Kirkwall

Popular in January

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

Bucket list

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