Whitby Weather in January

With daytime temperatures of 8°C (46°F) and nighttime lows of 4°C (39°F), January in Whitby brings low temperatures during the day. Do keep in mind that quite a bit of rainfall is typical. Around 79 mm (3.1 in) falls on average.

Rainfall in Whitby in January

Expect around 21 days of rain based on historical data, with 79 mm (3.1 in) average. With rain spread across many days but low totals, showers are typically short and light rather than heavy.

Temperature in Whitby in January

January in Whitby brings typical temperatures with highs around 8°C (46°F) and lows of 4°C (39°F). Experience the winter season in January. Cold conditions persist throughout the day, so warm clothing is important from the moment you head outside. With overnight lows of 4°C (39°F), nights are cold. The cold air does make for deep, comfortable sleep if you have enough blankets.

Sunshine in Whitby in January

This month sees fewer sunny days, with about 56 hours of sunshine, perfect for those who enjoy cooler temperatures.

Average water temperature in January

The water sits at 7°C (45°F) this month, which is well below what most people consider swimmable. Wetsuits help, but expect it to still feel cold.

January in Whitby 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.

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Check the conditions for any month of the year.

• January
• February
• March
• April

• May
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• July
• August

• September
• October
• November
• December

For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit the United Kingdom, check out our Whitby's climate page.

Whitby Temperature in January

Min Temperature 4°C (39°F)  

Max Temperature 8°C (46°F)  

Water Temperature 7°C (45°F) *  

Chance of Rain 69%  

Precipitation 79 mm (3.1 in)  

Rainy days 21 days  

Sunshine 56 hours *  

Percentage Sunshine 18% *  

* Data from: Scarborough, the United Kingdom (13 KM, 8 Miles).

Daily Historical Temperatures

51-year average (1976-2026)

Based on our historical records, temperatures in Whitby 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

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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

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Historical weather for Whitby in January

Browse day-by-day weather records for Whitby spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.

Historical weather Temperatures Precipitation

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‹ January February March April May June July August September October November December ›

Whitby historical weather extremes in January

Based on 25 years of weather observations in Whitby between 2000 and 2025, these are the recorded extremes.

• The hottest January day on record in Whitby reached 13°C (55°F) (January 9, 2015).
• The coldest January day was on January 4, 2010, with a maximum of -1°C (30°F).
• Whitby registered its coldest January night on January 18, 2024, with temperatures dropping to -6°C (21°F).
• The wettest day in January Whitby was on January 5, 2016 with 37 mm (1.5 in) of precipitation.

What to Wear in Whitby in January

We recommend to layer up for chilly conditions in Whitby 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. Rain is likely on several days, so bring a good rain jacket. The water temperature sits at about 7°C (45°F), which is too chilly for most people to enjoy swimming. Leave the swimsuit at home unless you love cold water. Sunglasses aren't essential this month, though you might want them for the occasional bright moment.

What To Do in Whitby 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

4/10

Outdoor sports

4/10

Select a Month

Check the conditions for any month of the year.

• January
• February
• March
• April

• May
• June
• July
• August

• September
• October
• November
• December

For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit the United Kingdom, check out our Whitby's climate page.

More climate data for Whitby

Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Water Temp

See the full Whitby climate overview or explore weather in the United Kingdom.