Weather in Westray

Planning a journey? Discover the weather awaiting you in Westray to perfectly plan your holiday. Below, you will find up-to-date forecasts and detailed meteorological charts.

The climate of Westray island can be characterized as temperate maritime, with a strong oceanic influence that acts to smooth out temperature fluctuations. There is no exhausting heat or severe frost here: the weather remains surprisingly stable throughout the year. Even in the coldest winter months, the average temperature holds around 6°C, while in summer, the air warms up to a comfortable, albeit cool, 13°C.

Travelling to this part of the country, which is the United Kingdom, involves high humidity and regular precipitation. Rainy days are frequent, especially in the autumn-winter period, when they can reach 24 days per month. However, the rains themselves are usually not highly intense. Summer and late spring are considered the most favourable times for a visit: during this period, the number of rainy days decreases, allowing tourists to explore the local beauty more comfortably.

The lowest temperature readings on Westray are recorded in February and March, when the air warms up on average to only +6°C. The winter period generally passes without extreme cold: in December and January, the thermometer usually stays in the range of +6...+7°C. Severe frosts are uncharacteristic for this area, so even in the coldest months, the weather remains relatively mild, although cool.

Summer here is fresh and invigorating, with no scorching heat. The warmest month is August with an average value of +13.1°C and daytime highs reaching +14°C. July and September are almost on par with the leader, showing a stable +12...+12.5°C. Such conditions are hardly suitable for a beach holiday, but they create a comfortable atmosphere for active tourism and long walking tours.

An interesting feature of the local temperature regime is the extremely small amplitude of daily fluctuations. The difference between day and night temperatures often amounts to just 1–2 degrees. For example, in January, the average minimum (+5.1°C) is almost equal to the maximum (+7.3°C), ensuring a very even temperature background around the clock.

When setting off for Westray, it is important to remember that precipitation here is distributed fairly evenly throughout the year, although its character changes from season to season. For this region, where the United Kingdom is located, a high frequency of rain with a relatively small total volume is typical. This means that instead of powerful tropical downpours, travellers are more often met with light drizzle or short-term rain, creating a special atmosphere.

The wettest period lasts from mid-autumn to the end of winter. October and December are record holders for precipitation frequency — rain can fall up to 24 days a month. In January and November, the situation is similar: statistics record about 23 days with precipitation. At this time of year, an umbrella and waterproof clothing will be mandatory elements of your wardrobe.

If you prefer drier weather, it is better to plan your trip for spring or early summer. April and June are considered the most favourable months: the number of days with precipitation drops to 12, which gives excellent chances for comfortable walks along the coast. May and July are also relatively dry (about 13 rainy days), and even if it rains, its intensity usually remains minimal.

A trip to Westray requires a careful approach to wardrobe selection, as the weather here is distinguished by coolness and high humidity throughout the year. The main principle of outfitting is layering. Be sure to take a high-quality windproof and waterproof jacket with a hood, as precipitation falls often here: even in the driest months, the number of rainy days rarely drops below twelve. An umbrella may prove useless due to the strong winds characteristic of the British Isles, so a reliable raincoat will be the best solution.

For a trip in the winter period (from November to March), when the temperature stays around +6...+7°C, it is worth stocking up on thermal underwear, thick woollen sweaters, a hat, and gloves. Summer here is also quite fresh: in July and August, the air warms up on average only to +13°C. Therefore, even in the warm season, do not forget about fleece jackets and long trousers, although light t-shirts may come in handy for rare sunny days when the wind dies down.

Pay special attention to footwear. For walks along the picturesque coasts and hills, comfortable trekking boots with water-repellent impregnation and non-slip soles are ideal. If you plan long hiking routes, bring spare warm socks so that your feet always remain dry. Despite the cool weather, sunscreen and sunglasses will also not be superfluous, especially in windy weather when the effect of ultraviolet radiation can be imperceptible but significant.