The Scots - proud and welcoming people
The multicultural population makes Scotland a vibrant and inclusive place to live. We like to think of ourselves as a friendly and welcoming nation. We’ll help you to make the most of UK culture, discover what life in Scotland is like and find out more about the famous Scottish weather.
Weather in Scotland
As Scotland is in the more northerly part of the UK, it has more annual rainfall and snow in winter. Average temperatures in summer range from 14°C to 22°C. Average temperatures in winter range from 0°C to 6°C.
When you’re living in Scotland, you’ll notice differences in the weather between each of the four seasons: spring, summer, autumn, winter. What you might not expect however, is that you can experience all these in the same day. The motto in Scotland is definitely to dress in layers!
Spring
Spring runs from March to May Although temperatures during these months generally range from about 5 to 15°C (41° - 59°F) Springtime weather in Scotland can be unpredictable!
Summer
Summer runs from June to August Expect longer days and warmer temperatures in the region of 15 to 25°C (59° - 77°F)
Autumn
Autumn is from September to November Temperatures are around 5 to 15°C but with some colourful displays as the leaves change colour and drop for winter.
Winter
Winter runs from November to March Expect cold weather, rain, sometimes snow and fog. Winter days in the UK the days are short 8am - 4 pm. Temperatures are around 0 to 7°C (32° - 45°F). Fife usually gets a few cm of snow and it does not last more than a day or two.
Essentials to pack for Scotland
The weather can be changeable in Scotland, so having a range of clothing that you can layer up or dress up or down is key! Below are some suggestions that you might consider packing:
- Waterproof jacket – that’s your must-have!
- Warm jacket or coat
- Waterproof waking shoes – another must-have!
- Jeans
- Leggings/lighter trousers
- Warm hoodie or fleece jacket
- Sweatshirt or jumper
- Trainer shoes
- Shirts or blouses
- T-shirts
- One nicer dress/outfit for going out + smarter shoes
- Hat, scarf, and gloves
- Thermal clothing/underwear for winter - this can be purchased here.
Other accessories to consider packing:
- Umbrella – always! Although sometimes it might be too windy to use it!
- Small Backpack – can be easier to carry and ideal for town and country
- Travel adapter – for the British plugs with three rectangular pins
Finance & Money
It is also important that you bring with you enough money to keep you going until you get paid by NHS Fife. Read more in our Finance section.
