UK weather in May 2024

Discover the UK's weather in May. Here, we share not only average temperatures at popular destinations but also our handpicked selection of the top 10 places to go in the UK in May for anyone planning a holiday (half term, perhaps?) or day trip in late spring.

  • 63°F maximum daytime temperature in May in UK (London)63
    63°F max day temperature
  • 6 hours of sunshine per day
  • 13 days with some rainfall in May in UK (London)13
    13 days with some rainfall
  • 46°F minimum night-time temperature in May in UK (London)46
    46°F min night temperature
  • 16 hours of daylight per day in May in UK (London)16
    16 hours of daylight per day
  • No heat & humidity in May in UK (London)0
    No heat & humidity
  • 2.0 inches monthly rainfall in May in UK (London)2.0
    2.0 inches of monthly rainfall
  • UV (maximum) index 5 (Moderate) in May in UK (London)5
    5 (Moderate) UV index

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The May weather guide for UK (London) shows long term weather averages processed from data supplied by CRU (University of East Anglia), the Met Office & the Netherlands Meteorological Institute. Find out more about our data sources.

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Top 10 UK places to go in May

May is one of the most glorious months to get out and about in the UK. Days are noticeably longer and, although it's the month of half term, there's a real hint of summer to come. Below you'll find our pick of places to go on holiday that offer both reasonable weather and a wonderful assortment of things to do for all ages.

  1. Blackpool, Lancashire
  2. Bath, Somerset
  3. Colwyn Bay, North Wales
  4. Betws-y-Coed, Snowdonia
  5. Lake District, Cumbria
  6. Whitby, North Yorkshire
  7. Belfast, Northern Ireland
  8. Melrose, Scottish Borders
  9. Alnwick, Northumberland
  10. Loch Lomond, Southwest Scotland
Blackpool Beach at low tide
Blackpool Beach at low tide © Christopher Combe - Flickr CC BY 2.0

1. Blackpool, Lancashire, England

Fun for all ages is guaranteed on a late spring break to the popular seaside resort town of Blackpool on the Lancashire coast. What's more, May is a quieter time to go before summer yet the weather is bright with increased sunshine, although rain showers are still possible.

There's a whiff of nostalgia when you visit Blackpool with retro arcades, buckets and spades and good old fashioned fish and chip shops all helping you to make the most of the seven-mile-long sandy beach that has attracted visitors for hundreds of years.

Take the Blackpool Tower Eye & 4D Experience to see for miles from what was the tallest man-made structure in the British Empire when it opened in 1894, before hopping on a rollercoaster at the renowned Blackpool Pleasure Beach or taking a whirl on the neon-lit wheel on Central Pier.

For another look at days gone by, don't miss the Heritage Tram Tour along the waterfront in a vintage car while The Grundy Art Gallery delves into more modern themes of contemporary art and popular culture. If you can take a peek inside the Opera House & Winter Gardens, you'll be walking in the footsteps of greats who've performed at this, the UK's largest theatre.

Another top activity for families, whatever the weather, is a day spent splashing around at indoor Sandcastle Waterpark. Enjoy a leg stretch at Marton Mere Local Nature Reserve or RSPB Ribble Discovery Centre, where mudflats host shelducks, redshank and possibly still curlew by May.

Blackpool in May

  • Usually 59°F maximum daytime temperature in Blackpool in May59
    59°F maximum daytime temperature
  • 7 hours of sunshine per day
  • Usually 15 days with some rainfall in Blackpool in May15
    15 days with some rainfall
  • 2.4 inches monthly rainfall in Blackpool in May2.4
    2.4 inches monthly rainfall

About Blackpool >>

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2. Bath, Somerset, England

Mention the spa town of Bath in Somerset and you'll likely think of the ancient Roman baths and the warm-hues of its recognisable Bath-stone Georgian architecture. While these are mighty fine attractions in their own right, there's far more to see and do in and around this historic city.

Plus, by May the weather is on the up with incremental increases in the temperature and amount of sunshine, although the chance of seeing a shower remains, so do pack accordingly.

For a bird's eye view, head up the 212 steps to the top of Bath Abbey's tower before admiring the stained glass windows and stunning fan-vaulted ceiling within. Head, then, to the Jane Austen Centre to learn about the life of this much-loved former city resident through exhibits and costumes.

The museum at No.1 Royal Crescent takes you behind the ornate façade of Bath's most prestigious address while The Holburne Museum houses a collection of fine art and objects.

Spire-studded city views can be found on the six-mile Bath Skyline Walk through fields and woodlands while the landscaped garden of National Trust's Prior Park and the many sights of super-cool Bristol both make for excellent excursions.

Of course, no trip to Bath would be complete without taking a dip at Thermae Bath Spa or trying a sip of water from the spa fountain (alongside an indulgent afternoon tea) at the Pump Room Restaurant.

Bath in May

  • Usually 61°F maximum daytime temperature in Bath in May61
    61°F maximum daytime temperature
  • 6 hours of sunshine per day
  • Usually 15 days with some rainfall in Bath in May15
    15 days with some rainfall
  • 2.7 inches monthly rainfall in Bath in May2.7
    2.7 inches monthly rainfall

About Bath >>

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3. Colwyn Bay, North Wales

The Victorian seaside resort of Colwyn Bay is an idyllic coastal location in which to base yourself while getting to know north Wales. In May, days are beginning to see more sunshine than in previous months although waterproofs are recommended.

The town, whose three-mile-long seafront promenade offers superb views over the Irish Sea, is well stocked with cafés and bars (don't miss super trendy Bryn Williams at Porth Eirias for award-winning Welsh fare) while the beach is a safe and clean place to paddle and build sandcastles.

Colwyn Bay Watersports centre is the place to take windsurfing lessons or hire a kayak. Alternatively, you could hire bikes and visit Old Colwyn or the neighbouring town of Rhos-on-Sea by pedalling along the waterfront.

Attractions further afield include the headland of the Great Orme, which can be traversed along the Wales Coast Path. Add a stop at fellow Victorian resort, Llandudno before venturing on to RSPB Conwy and the 13th-century Conwy Castle and town walls, all a short drive from Colwyn Bay.

Of course, there's also the mega appeal of Snowdonia National Park and all of the climbing, walking, rafting and heritage-related opportunities that come with exploring the region.

Colwyn Bay in May

  • Usually 57°F maximum daytime temperature in Colwyn Bay in May57
    57°F maximum daytime temperature
  • 6 hours of sunshine per day
  • Usually 16 days with some rainfall in Colwyn Bay in May16
    16 days with some rainfall
  • 2.9 inches monthly rainfall in Colwyn Bay in May2.9
    2.9 inches monthly rainfall

About Colwyn Bay >>

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4. Betws-y-Coed, Snowdonia, Wales

Betws-y-Coed grew around a 6th-century monastery before developing into a lead miners' town. Today, it lies within Snowdonia National Park and is a major destination for visitors to the region as it holds the keys to exploring the valleys, woodlands and waterfalls surrounding the UK's highest mountain outside of Scotland.

While daytimes in May are increasingly bright with prolonged periods of sunshine, some days with rain do occur so pack layers for every eventuality.

The town itself sits deep in a valley surrounded by dense woodland with the iconic Pont-y-Pair stone bridge over the fast-flowing River Llugwy, a tributary of the River Conwy, at its heart. There are plenty of cosy tearooms, galleries, shops with all sorts of outdoor gear, tourist information and pubs, which guarantee its popularity.

Town attractions include the Conwy Valley Railway Museum with its miniature railway, the wooden Miners' Bridge, previously used to access the mines of Gwydyr Forest, the 14th-century church of St Michael, Swallow Falls and Sappers Suspension Bridge, the last two just outside of the town.

A holiday to Betws-y-Coed is likely to focus on outdoor activities, of which there are plenty! Instead of hiking up Snowdonia, you could book a seat on the Snowdonia Mountain Railway for an easy ride to the top, tackle less challenging walking routes such as through Gwydyr Forest, go cycling or abseil downwards for an underground tour of an abandoned slate mine.

The nearby coaster ride, zip lines and skyride of ZipWorld Fforest offers fun for all the family while ZipWorld Penrhyn Quarry, 15 miles away, has what's said to be the fastest zip line in the world.

Betws-y-Coed in May

  • Usually 57°F maximum daytime temperature in Betws-y-Coed in May57
    57°F maximum daytime temperature
  • 6 hours of sunshine per day
  • Usually 16 days with some rainfall in Betws-y-Coed in May16
    16 days with some rainfall
  • 3.7 inches monthly rainfall in Betws-y-Coed in May3.7
    3.7 inches monthly rainfall

About Betws-y-Coed >>

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5. Lake District, Cumbria, England

There's something eternally romantic about the Lake District. As well as its sheer natural splendour, it's possibly due to its association with influential creatives such as William Wordsworth, Beatrix Potter (do visit her house at Ambleside) and John Ruskin.

This mountainous corner of northwest England is an outdoor lover's dream with lakes, forests and mountains - also known as fells - galore. By May, days are brightening up although showers persist so, as with everywhere we feature, we must advise appropriate outdoor wear for all sorts of conditions.

Ullswater, Lake District National Park, Cumbria
Ullswater, Lake District National Park, Cumbria © RamblingTog - Adobe Stock Image

Every activity you can think of is available on a holiday to the Lake District National Park. We're talking biking (road and mountain), walking, boating and stargazing - you name it.

Some of the biggest hitters that you simply can't miss on a trip to the Lakes include Scafell Pike, England's highest mountain which makes for a fun and challenging climb, the magnificent waterfall of Aira Force, the sight of Derwent Water from what's called 'Surprise View' and the postcard-worthy village of Grasmere.

Then there's the elevated lake of Ullswater, while Lake Windemere is arguably the most well known, and Brockhole is an excellent spot from which to make the most of it. You can hire boats, canoes, kayaks or head inland to wind your way around the high-ropes course at Treetop Trek and Nets.

Don't miss The Woodland Faerie Trail at Brockhole, a route designed to spot as many tiny doorways and fairy houses built into the trees as possible.

Lake District in May

  • Usually 55°F maximum daytime temperature in Lake District in May55
    55°F maximum daytime temperature
  • 6 hours of sunshine per day
  • Usually 16 days with some rainfall in Lake District in May16
    16 days with some rainfall
  • 5.7 inches monthly rainfall in Lake District in May5.7
    5.7 inches monthly rainfall

About Lake District >>

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6. Whitby, North Yorkshire, England

The seaside town and fishing port of Whitby sits on the North Yorkshire coast, split in two by the River Esk and overlooked by the striking Gothic ruins of Whitby Abbey.

A coastal resort like no other, its cobbled streets offer both the traditional and the quirky. Chippies and local art galleries rub shoulders with gothic-themed boutiques and shops selling what was known as 'mourning' jewellery crafted from black 'Whitby Jet', a form of fossiled wood found locally.

This interest in the macabre comes, in part, from Whitby's long-standing reputation as the place that inspired Bram Stoker's Dracula and is cemented each year with The Whitby Goth Weekend, not to mention nightly ghost walks.

That said, Whitby has every seaside requirement going as well: we're talking buckets and spades, ice creams, long sandy beach, coastal cruises and many fine seafood dining options.

Whitby is also well-placed for exploring the delights of the North Yorkshire Moors National Park. Visit majestic Castle Howard, hike parts of The Cleveland Way, go mountain biking in Dalby Forest, take in the view from Sutton Bank and feel nostalgic in Pickering where you can hop aboard the North Yorkshire Moors Railway.

Whitby in May

  • Usually 55°F maximum daytime temperature in Whitby in May55
    55°F maximum daytime temperature
  • 6 hours of sunshine per day
  • Usually 14 days with some rainfall in Whitby in May14
    14 days with some rainfall
  • 2.2 inches monthly rainfall in Whitby in May2.2
    2.2 inches monthly rainfall

About Whitby >>

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7. Belfast, Northern Ireland

The Northern Irish capital packs a punch. Easy to reach by plane or ferry, Belfast is a delightful blend of old and new with everything from ancient and modern history to award-winning cuisine and family-friendly activities.

The city's star attraction is Titanic Belfast, an all-encompassing visitor experience located by the slipway where the doomed liner was designed and built in 1912. It's loved by those who visit for its depth and breadth of information, including a look at the history of shipbuilding in the region.

Elsewhere, you can learn about the troubles at the Northern Ireland War Museum and get a little dose of history through the ages at The Ulster Museum. The Botanic Gardens, which are in full bloom by May, make for a wonderful picnic stop if the weather allows, while The Crumlin Road Gaol, a 19th-century listed jail, is open for eerie tours.

Belfast has a bustling food and drink scene with many well-known restaurants sitting alongside indy cafés, bars and fine dining options. Whiskey also features throughout the city with many tasting events and specialist bars just waiting to help you enjoy a dram or two.

Outwith the city, Colin Glen Forest Park has high ropes and woodland walks, while views can be enjoyed on one of the many walking trails through the Belfast Hills which surround the city. Of course, the Causeway Coast is also only an hour's drive away, giving you lots to add to your itinerary.

Belfast in May

  • Usually 57°F maximum daytime temperature in Belfast in May57
    57°F maximum daytime temperature
  • 6 hours of sunshine per day
  • Usually 16 days with some rainfall in Belfast in May16
    16 days with some rainfall
  • 2.6 inches monthly rainfall in Belfast in May2.6
    2.6 inches monthly rainfall

About Belfast >>

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8. Melrose, Scottish Borders

The rural border town of Melrose in Scotland's Tweed Valley is a treasure trove of history, country life and ample fine dining options (don't miss Burts Hotel), hemmed by the three peaks of the Eildon Hills, ripe for walking.

By May, this part of southern Scotland is getting brighter and drier with every passing day although precautions such as wet weather gear and appropriate layers are recommended.

The jewel in Melrose's crown is its rose-hued ruined abbey, dating in parts from the 12th century. Numerous Scottish kings are said to be buried within the former monastery, as is the embalmed heart of Robert the Bruce.

Close by is the site of the 1st-century Roman fort, Trimontium - now somewhat overshadowed by the magnificent Victorian-era Leaderfoot Viaduct. Back in Melrose, The Three Hills Roman Heritage Centre is a labour of love for local historians and well worth a visit for its curious artefacts.

There's more history to be had on a tour of famed writer Sir Walter Scott's ornate mansion, Abbotsford House, a few miles west of Melrose. And don't miss the two fabulous National Trust gardens: firstly, Priorwood, whose apple orchard cultivates historic varieties of the fruit and secondly, Harmony Gardens, Scotland's only dried flower garden.

Melrose in May

  • Usually 57°F maximum daytime temperature in Melrose in May57
    57°F maximum daytime temperature
  • 5 hours of sunshine per day
  • Usually 16 days with some rainfall in Melrose in May16
    16 days with some rainfall
  • 2.6 inches monthly rainfall in Melrose in May2.6
    2.6 inches monthly rainfall

About Melrose >>

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9. Alnwick, Northumberland

The market town of Alnwick in Northumberland is dominated by its 11th-century castle and much-loved for its proximity to the coast and nearby national park. By May, the weather serves up conditions that make exploring the region a delight such as longer days with increased sunshine and lower rainfall.

A visit to marvellously sculpted Alnwick Garden and its wonderful Treehouse Restaurant is a must, while the town has countless cute cafés serving oven-fresh scones and small boutiques.

There are many ways to experience the long and varied Northumberland coast which, incidentally, is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). For history, head to mighty Bamburgh Castle while Holy Island, aka Lindisfarne, one of the most important Christian sites in Britain, can be reached by crossing the causeway at low tide - do check times!

Beach lovers should make for the seaside town of Alnmouth with its scenic cottages and wild, open sandy beach. There's the nature reserve at coastal Hauxley with its Wildlife Discovery Centre or you could take a boat trip to the Farne Isles to see puffins and seals.

Looking inland, you'll want to make for the Northumberland National Park, with all of its walking trails and exclusive Roman history - Hadrian's Wall, no less. Visit the ruins of a Roman temple or trek sections of Hadrian's Wall National Path.

Further west, Kielder Water & Forest Park is the place for adventurers. While daytimes in May promise the chance to see ospreys and red squirrels plus canoeing or sailing, as it's located in the heart of Northumberland International Dark Sky Park, Kielder Observatory is the place for galaxy-watching at night.

Alnwick in May

  • Usually 55°F maximum daytime temperature in Alnwick in May55
    55°F maximum daytime temperature
  • 6 hours of sunshine per day
  • Usually 15 days with some rainfall in Alnwick in May15
    15 days with some rainfall
  • 2.2 inches monthly rainfall in Alnwick in May2.2
    2.2 inches monthly rainfall

About Alnwick >>

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10. Loch Lomond, Southwest Scotland

Lochs, mountains, valleys, waterfalls and forests set the scene for a splendid array of outdoor adventures on any holiday to Loch Lomond in southwest Scotland.

One of four areas that make up the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, Loch Lomond is teeming with wildlife and, by May, days are noticeably longer and brighter although showers persist and appropriate outdoor gear is essential.

Whether you're camping, staying in B&B or settled in your own private accommodation, get your bearings at the National Park Visitor Centre at Balmaha, which is full of inspiration and useful info.

Walkers can tackle sections of the West Highland Way or bag a Munro up Ben Lomond. Take your binoculars to RSPB Loch Lomond Reserve and you may spy an osprey while a stroll up Conic Hill could reveal red squirrels in the woodland and soaring buzzards and hen harriers from the top.

Strike out onto the water with a loch cruise to Inchcailloch Island or simply take in the shoreline with a waterbus ride. Canoeing, kayaking and swimming - for the hardy - are other popular pastimes, as well as cycling, climbing, fishing and golfing.

Away from the park, there are urban sights such as the museums and galleries of Glasgow, hilltop Stirling Castle and the Wallace Monument, the scenic white-washed town of Inverary on the shore of Loch Fyne with its fascinating 18th-century jail, and the port of Oban for a ferry ride across to the Isle of Mull.

Loch Lomond in May

  • Usually 57°F maximum daytime temperature in Loch Lomond in May57
    57°F maximum daytime temperature
  • 5 hours of sunshine per day
  • Usually 18 days with some rainfall in Loch Lomond in May18
    18 days with some rainfall
  • 4.7 inches monthly rainfall in Loch Lomond in May4.7
    4.7 inches monthly rainfall

About Loch Lomond >>

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Planning holidays in the UK

About the UK seasons

More about the UK

How warm is it in the UK in May?

Daytime temperatures usually reach 63°F in London, UK in May, falling to 46°F at night.

How sunny is it in the UK in May?

There are normally 6 hours of bright sunshine each day in London, UK in May - that's 39% of daylight hours.

Does it rain in the UK in May?

There are usually 13 days with some rain in London, UK in May and the average monthly rainfall is 2.0 inches.

UK May sunrise & sunset times

Browse the sunrise and sunset times for UK in May 2024. Select a month to view UK sunrise and sunset times for the next 12 months. The UK sunrise and sunset times shown below are for London.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

Date Sunrise times Sunset times
Wednesday, 1st May 2024 05:32 20:25
Thursday, 16th May 2024 05:07 20:48
Friday, 31st May 2024 04:50 21:08

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