Scotland’s weather is as cruel a joke as our neighbours.
Honestly, my idea for starting these guides was to give people practical information about what kind of weather to expect throughout the year in Edinburgh. What I’ve discovered is such a variety that here we are in Summer and it feels sharp contrast to this year’s dry and hot Spring. The weather feels hotter but simultaneously also wetter. We’ve had thunder which is not regular at all.
So what’s happening with our weather? Is our climate changing? How does one prepare for it? Let’s explore together.
By the end you should know what to wear in August as well as a bit about the climate.
Background
This series is supposed to have a fresh entry on a monthly basis but I have fallen behind. Fortunately, nobody wants to know what to wear last month and this one gives a lot of good ideas for next month too which should make it more useful.
Historical data on Edinburgh in August
The average temperature for Edinburgh in August is 19C (66F). In other words, basically perfect weather. Ice cream consumption can be a regular volume, and you don’t generally need AC to sleep. Which is good because AC is very uncommon here.
Rain is another perennial feature. August normally got about 70mm from 1991 to 2020, though this year the prediction is lower at 50mm. So it could be a small victory at least.
Is the climate changing?
It seems unavoidable to say that at the very least the weather this year has felt even more unpredictable than usual. We had a long dry spell in Spring and early Summer, followed by hotter and wetter conditions. This is predicted to be followed by patterns more similar to September. The average August temp is predicted to be about 15C.
Be aware that due to occasional dry spells, there is a chance of fires in natural areas. Arthur’s Seat was on fire. Be careful with your cigarettes, campfires, birthday cakes, and gender reveals.
So what do you wear in Edinburgh in August?
We shall go from top to bottom as is the norm.
And on the topic of cruel jokes, remember that since this is Fringe month, you will need to account for this by making sure you can remove items to not overheat inside venues. Definitely have a backpack and ensure your base layer has short sleeves.
Head
Hats are inessential, except if it’s your look. There can be strong gusts so hold onto your hats.
Scarves?
Maybe, actually. 15C is quite cold if you’re from warmer climes.
Body
I do short sleeves at this time. Simple very light coats are the best idea in case of rain, though I have a shawl/cape instead.
Legs
Shorts if you’re a very energetic tour guide moving around a lot, jeans if you’re not moving as much.
Shoes
Sensible is never a bad idea.
Where do you buy clothes?
It’s a very normal error to pack for Scotland in a completely inappropriate way. Some bring overly large jackets which are not fit for purpose, or which collect rain water. Others pack lighter and wind up down an outfit in a sufficiently strong burst of rain.
Here’s your guide to finding places to buy clothes.
Primark on Princes Street
They’re fine, very cheap, is basically a one stop shop for an entire outfit for less than £20 if you find the right deal. The number of times I have had to go and buy a complete change of clothes after a tour is at least 3. 2 of these times have been in August.
St James Quarter
If you’re looking for designer labels, this is more the place to go. It’s fancier.
Royal Mile
There’s not much here for clothes though there is Mountain Warehouse. They have good shoes and decent waterproof gear, especially good for hiking trips. There’s also the coolest sock shop in town, Socktopus.
Following the advice in here you should be golden for August. Though given how variable it has been, maybe also consider looking at our February article if things look worse when you’re here.
The writer of this piece actually quite likes it when it’s wet.
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