December weather forecast
United Kingdom

December marks the beginning of the winter season in the United Kingdom, with temperatures continuing to drop and the likelihood of snow and frost increasing, particularly in northern and inland areas.

Scotland's temperatures range from -1°C (30.2°F) to 5°C (41°F), with the Highlands often experiencing sub-zero conditions. Snowfall becomes more common in mountainous regions, and cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow experience a mix of rain, snow, and clear but chilly days.

In England, temperatures vary from 2°C (35.6°F) to 7°C (44.6°F). Northern regions, such as the Pennines and Lake District, can experience significant snowfall, while southern areas like London may have milder but still cold conditions. Frosty mornings and icy roads become more common, particularly in rural areas.

Wales typically sees temperatures from 1°C (33.8°F) to 6°C (42.8°F). Snowfall can occur in the mountainous north, while the southern coastal regions might remain slightly milder. Rain and wind increase, particularly in the western parts.

Northern Ireland experiences temperatures from 1°C (33.8°F) to 5°C (41°F), with occasional snowfall and frequent frost, particularly in inland areas. Coastal regions may experience more rain and slightly milder conditions.

Daylight hours are at their shortest, with long, dark evenings creating a cozy and festive atmosphere, particularly in urban areas adorned with holiday lights.

Precipitation remains frequent, with snow becoming more likely in northern and elevated regions. Eastern areas may experience drier but colder conditions, particularly during clear nights.

The influence of the Atlantic Ocean lessens further but still provides some moderation to coastal temperatures. Inland regions can experience substantial temperature variations, with freezing nights becoming the norm.

December's weather in the United Kingdom is characterized by cold temperatures, increased chance of snow, and short days. It's a month that invites warm fires, festive activities, and winter sports in areas with significant snowfall. Those seeking outdoor adventures should be prepared for changeable and potentially harsh conditions. Regional variations provide diverse weather experiences, with northern areas experiencing a more pronounced winter and southern regions remaining slightly milder. The landscape takes on a serene beauty, whether covered in snow or glistening with frost, offering a distinctive climate that reflects the quiet majesty of winter in the United Kingdom.

---

• London - December »
  In London in December, during 1.2 snowfall days, 9mm (0.35") of snow is typically accumulated. In London during December, snow falls for 1.2 days and regularly aggregates up to 9mm (0.35") of snow.
• Edinburgh - December »
  In Edinburgh in December, snow falls for 1.7 days, with typically accumulated 12mm (0.47") of snow. In Edinburgh, United Kingdom, in December, snow falls for 1.7 days, with typically accumulated 12mm (0.47") of snow.
• Manchester - December »
  In Manchester, United Kingdom, during December, snow falls for 1.3 days and regularly aggregates up to 15mm (0.59") of snow. In Manchester during December, the rain falls for 16.1 days and regularly aggregates up to 43mm (1.69") of precipitation.
• Birmingham - December »
  In Birmingham during December, snow falls for 1.9 days and regularly aggregates up to 11mm (0.43") of snow. In December, in Birmingham the rain falls for 11.2 days.
• Glasgow - December »
  The month with the shortest days in Glasgow is December, with an average of 7h and 6min of daylight. In Glasgow in December, during 21.8 rainfall days, 88mm (3.46") of precipitation is typically accumulated.
• Liverpool - December »
  In Liverpool during December, snow falls for 4 days. In December, in Liverpool snow falls for 4 days.
• Bristol - December »
  January, February, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 2, are months with the lowest UV index in Bristol, United Kingdom. In Bristol, United Kingdom, in December, during 9.5 rainfall days, 20mm (0.79") of precipitation is typically accumulated.
• Oxford - December »
  The final month of the year, December in Oxford, brings a further drop in temperature, and occasional snowfall of up to 8mm (0.31") occurs, indicating the solid presence of winter. December has the shortest days of the year in Oxford, with an average of 7h and 54min of daylight.
• Cambridge - December »
  In Cambridge in December, during 1.2 snowfall days, 11mm (0.43") of snow is typically accumulated. In Cambridge, United Kingdom, during December, the rain falls for 14 days and regularly aggregates up to 35mm (1.38") of precipitation.
• Leeds - December »
  The month with the shortest days in Leeds, United Kingdom, is December, with an average of 7h and 30min of daylight. In Leeds during December, the rain falls for 12.2 days and regularly aggregates up to 27mm (1.06") of precipitation.
• Cardiff - December »
  In Cardiff during December, snow falls for 0.7 days and regularly aggregates up to 1mm (0.04") of snow. January through March, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 2, are months with the lowest UV index in Cardiff, United Kingdom.
• Belfast - December »
  In Belfast in December, during 1.2 snowfall days, 6mm (0.24") of snow is typically accumulated. In Belfast, United Kingdom, in December, during 1.2 snowfall days, 6mm (0.24") of snow is typically accumulated.