United Kingdom in May: Weather, Crowds & What to Expect
Climate Map for May
Average temperature across United Kingdom in May.
City Weather in May
| City | High | Low | Rain | UV | Feels |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| London | 18° | 8° | 50 mm | high | Cool |
| Birmingham | 16° | 6° | 62 mm | high | Cool |
| Glasgow | 15° | 6° | 65 mm | high | Cool |
| Manchester | 16° | 8° | 55 mm | high | Cool |
| Sheffield Cathedral | 16° | 7° | 54 mm | high | Cool |
| Leeds | 16° | 7° | 51 mm | high | Cool |
| Edinburgh | 14° | 6° | 48 mm | moderate | Cool |
High / low are average daily temperatures (°C). “Feels” reflects how hot or cold it feels, allowing for humidity.
Southeast England & London
Late spring in the city and the southeast is usually mild and increasingly dry, with May offering some of the region’s most reliably pleasant weather - perfect for exploring Greenwich, Cambridge or country houses in Kent. London gets lively as outdoor dining and rooftop bars reopen; pollen counts rise sharply, so hayfever sufferers should bring antihistamines. Occasional heat-peaks push temperatures into the low twenties; light layers, sun protection and a foldable umbrella cover most contingencies.
Southwest England (Cornwall, Devon, Somerset)
May is often one of the more reliable months for the southwest, with mild, settled weather making it excellent for surfing around Newquay, visiting Tintagel or hiking across Dartmoor. Late-spring lambs dot the fields and the sea begins to warm; evening temperatures are pleasantly cool and crowds are still lower than July. Bring layered clothing and a light waterproof - occasional showers remain possible.
Wales & the Marches (Snowdonia, Brecon Beacons, Cardiff)
Late spring in May brings long, often pleasantly warm days to Cardiff, Tenby and the South Wales coast; festivals return and coastal paths are increasingly walkable. Mountain routes on drier spells are attractive and less crowded than in summer, but the higher tops still see showers and cold winds. Bring layered clothing, sun protection for coastal walks, and expect some muddy stretches on farm trails.
Northern England (Lake District, Yorkshire Dales, Northumberland)
Late spring in May often produces mild, pleasant conditions and long daylight perfect for exploring the Dales, the North York Moors and the coast around Bamburgh. Rivers and waterfalls are full after spring rains, making places like Aysgarth Falls very photogenic. Expect cool nights; layers are useful and book ahead for popular cottages and country pubs on bank holidays.
Scotland (Lowlands, Highlands & Islands combined)
May is often one of Scotland’s most pleasant months: longer, mostly calm days and warming lowlands make it ideal for touring whisky distilleries, Edinburgh’s architecture, and coastal drives on the Moray Firth. Midges begin to appear in sheltered lochs and reedbeds as temperatures rise, especially in the west and on Skye - bring repellent. Hill conditions improve though snow patches may linger on the highest Munros.
Northern Ireland
May brings longer, mostly pleasant days with mild conditions perfect for walking the Causeway Coast Path and visiting castles inland; sea temperatures have little warmth but the air is comfortable for exploring. Spring lambs and wildflowers brighten valley walks in the Sperrins and the Mournes. Tourist numbers increase slowly; book accommodation early for bank-holiday weekends and bring layered clothing for variable days.