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York Weather in May
May in York sees daytime temperatures around 17°C (63°F) and lows of 7°C (45°F) at night. Pack a rain jacket because some rainfall is likely.
Rainfall in York in May
Based on our climate data of the past 30 years, about 14 days of rain are anticipated, with 59 mm (2.3 in) on average. The rainfall pattern this month is fairly balanced. Showers tend to be moderate rather than extreme.
Temperature in York in May
Temperatures in York in May top out at 17°C (63°F) and drop to 7°C (45°F) overnight. A light jacket or extra layer can be useful, especially outside the warmest hours of the day. With lows around 7°C (45°F), nights are cold. The upside is that cool, crisp nights are often the best for a deep sleep.
Sunshine in York in May
The city usually sees around 188 hours of sunlight, indicating a moderately sunny period.If you prefer dry days with pleasant temperatures, July and August typically offer the best circumstances. If you're seeking pleasant, dry and sunny weather somewhere else in the world, our weather planner can help you explore other options.
York Temperature in May
Min Temperature
7°C (45°F)
Max Temperature
17°C (63°F)
Chance of Rain
46%
Precipitation
59 mm (2.3 in)
Rainy days
14 days
Sunshine
188 hours
Percentage Sunshine
York Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in York - and find the best time to visit.
Daily Historical Temperatures
50-year average (1976-2025)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in York typically stay consistent throughout May, with daily highs averaging around 17°C (63°F). Nights are cold, with lows typically ranging from 5°C (41°F) to 8°C (46°F).
Average temperatures in May
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 May
Historical weather records for York in May
Browse day-by-day weather records for York spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
York historical weather extremes in May
Based on 50 years of weather observations in York between 1976 and 2026, these are the recorded extremes.
- York recorded its highest May temperature of 31°C (88°F) on May 25, 2026.
- On May 1, 1979, York saw its coldest May day with temperatures maxing out at 6°C (43°F).
- The coldest night in May in York was on May 13, 2010, with a minimum of -2°C (28°F).
- The heaviest May precipitation occurred on May 29, 1997, when 36 mm (1.4 in) of precipitation fell.
Best Places in the United Kingdom in May
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 May →
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 York in May
For York in May, you'll want flexible clothing. It's wise to pack cotton shirts, comfortable shorts, and a pair of jeans for cooler evenings. A light sweater or jacket is useful for air-conditioned spaces (like buses) or unexpected cool moments. Rain is likely on several days, so bring a good rain jacket. Bring sunglasses since you'll have some sunny periods throughout the month
What To Do in York in May
We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.
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Swimming5/10 -
Cycling6/10 -
Walking6/10 -
Barbeque6/10 -
Camping4/10 -
Outdoor sports10/10
York 3-Day Forecast
More climate data for York
See the full York climate overview or explore weather in the United Kingdom.
Popular in May
Where to go in May - average daytime high across popular destinations.
London
18°C (64°F) Bath17°C (63°F) Manchester
17°C (63°F) York17°C (63°F) Torquay15°C (59°F) Glasgow15°C (59°F) Edinburgh15°C (59°F) Blackpool14°C (57°F) Bucket list
Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.
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