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.

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• London - December »
  In London, in December, it is raining for 11.1 days, with typically 37mm (1.46") of accumulated precipitation. In London, in December, it is raining for 11.1 days, with typically 37mm (1.46") of accumulated precipitation.
• Edinburgh - December »
  In Edinburgh during December, the rain falls for 15.8 days and regularly aggregates up to 39mm (1.54") of precipitation. In Edinburgh, United Kingdom, during December, snow falls for 1.7 days and regularly aggregates up to 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, snow falls for 1.3 days and regularly aggregates up to 15mm (0.59") of snow.
• Birmingham - December »
  The month with the shortest days in Birmingham, United Kingdom, is December, with an average of 7h and 48min of daylight. The month with the shortest days in Birmingham is December, with an average of 7h and 48min of daylight.
• Glasgow - December »
  In Glasgow in December, during 2.5 snowfall days, 21mm (0.83") of snow is typically accumulated. December has the shortest days of the year in Glasgow with an average of 7h and 6min of daylight.
• Liverpool - December »
  In Liverpool during December, the rain falls for 18 days and regularly aggregates up to 65mm (2.56") of precipitation. On the first day of December in Liverpool sunrise is at 8:04 am and sunset at 3:57 pm.
• Bristol - December »
  The months with the highest humidity in Bristol are January, November and December, with an average relative humidity of 88%. On the last day of December, in Bristol sunrise is at 8:15 am and sunset at 4:10 pm GMT.
• 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 is the first month it typically snows in Oxford, United Kingdom.
• Cambridge - December »
  In Cambridge during December, the rain falls for 14 days and regularly aggregates up to 35mm (1.38") of precipitation. December is the most humid month in Cambridge with an average relative humidity of 90%.
• Leeds - December »
  In Leeds during December, snow falls for 1.9 days and regularly aggregates up to 12mm (0.47") of snow. 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 in December, snow falls for 0.7 days, with typically accumulated 1mm (0.04") of snow. With an average of 7h and 54min of daylight, December has the shortest days of the year in Cardiff, United Kingdom.
• Belfast - December »
  As a result, Belfast in December is best labeled as classic winter with cold temperatures, short days, and modest snowfall. The months with the highest humidity in Belfast, United Kingdom, are January and December, with an average relative humidity of 88%.