Weather in the United Kingdom

Hardly known for its desirable climate, the United Kingdom is plagued by atmospheric instability and unpredictable weather due to its location. Many types of weather can be experienced in one day, and rain is possible at any time of year, with gloomy conditions often the norm.

Generally speaking, southern regions are more temperate and milder than northern areas. England enjoys the warmest temperatures on average and is typically more sunny and less rainy than the rest of the UK. Scotland has the coldest weather and is also the wettest country for most parts of the year. 

Winters, between December and February, are cold and wet with occasional snow, especially in Scotland and the high-lying areas of England, Wales and Northern Ireland. When winter's grim, grey weather does lift, the country comes alive, and residents take advantage of the beautiful countryside and the many urban parks and gardens. 

Between June and August, summers are warm and balmy, and although there are frequent showers, you might be surprised to discover that this season is largely quite pleasant. Days are exceptionally long, especially in northern areas, where the sun sets at around 10pm and rises at about 4am.