Weather in Papa Westray

Planning a journey? Find out what weather currently awaits you on Papa Westray to better prepare for your trip. In this section, you will find the latest forecast and detailed climate charts.

The climate of the island of Papa Westray can be described as temperate maritime, heavily influenced by the Atlantic Ocean. Thanks to this, there is no extreme heat or severe freezing cold here: the temperature background remains surprisingly even throughout the year. High humidity, fresh winds, and frequent weather changes are typical for this region of the United Kingdom.

Seasons transition smoothly without sharp fluctuations. Winter here is mild, with average temperatures around 6–7°C, but it is characterized by a large number of overcast and rainy days. Summer is cool and invigorating: even in the warmest months, July and August, the air warms up on average to only 13°C. The most favourable period can be considered late spring and early summer, when rainfall is minimal and nature comes alive.

Travellers should note that precipitation is a frequent occurrence year-round: even during the "driest" months, rain can fall on about 12 days. This climatic stability and the absence of exhausting heat make the island an ideal destination for those who prefer coolness and long walks in the fresh air while wearing reliable waterproof clothing.

The climate on Papa Westray is distinguished by its mildness and lack of sharp temperature drops, which is characteristic of the northern archipelagos of the UK. The annual temperature range here is surprisingly narrow: from an average of 6°C in the coldest months (February and March) to 13°C at the height of summer. August is traditionally considered the warmest period, when the air warms to its annual maximum.

Summer here cannot be called hot—it is rather cool, fresh, and invigorating. Even in July and August, daytime readings rarely exceed 14°C, creating comfortable conditions for hiking and birdwatching, though it requires warm clothing. Winter, conversely, is quite mild for this latitude: average temperatures hold around 6–7°C, and severe frosts are a rarity thanks to the warming influence of the ocean.

A characteristic feature of the local weather is the insignificant difference between day and night temperatures. Throughout the year, daily fluctuations are minimal and often amount to just 1–2 degrees. This makes the thermal regime very stable throughout the day, although high humidity and frequent winds may make it feel cooler than the thermometers indicate.

When planning a trip to Papa Westray, it is worth being prepared for the whims of the weather inherent to the northern part of the archipelago. Precipitation falls here quite often, but its intensity is usually low. Instead of heavy downpours, fine drizzle or short-term rains are more characteristic of this UK region and can occur at any time of the year.

The wettest period falls in late autumn and winter. Statistically, the "wettest" months are October and December, when up to 24 rainy days per month are recorded. January and November are also distinguished by a high frequency of precipitation (about 23 days). At this time, an umbrella and waterproof clothing will become your main companions during walks.

A relatively dry season arrives in spring and continues until mid-summer. April and June are considered the most favourable months: the number of days with precipitation drops to 12, giving more chances to enjoy clear days. May and July also offer decent conditions for tourism, although the probability of rain cannot be completely ruled out even during this period.

Setting off for Papa Westray, it is important to remember the variability of the local climate and frequent precipitation. Even in the warmest summer months, July and August, the average temperature rarely exceeds +13°C, so the main principle when packing your suitcase is layering. Regardless of the season, your base should be a high-quality windproof and waterproof jacket with a hood: an umbrella here often proves useless due to the strong wind gusts characteristic of the northern UK islands.

For a trip in the autumn-winter period, when the number of rainy days reaches its maximum, be sure to take thermal base layers, a warm fleece jumper, a beanie, and gloves. In summer, the weather is milder, but the cool sea breeze will still require a sweater or light jacket for evening walks. Pay special attention to footwear: sturdy trekking boots with water-repellent treatment are ideal for exploring the island's natural beauty, ensuring comfort and dryness on damp trails.