London edges it in May. Edinburgh averages 7–15°C with moderate crowds; London 11–18°C with moderate crowds.
By Daan · Last reviewed October 2026
Edinburgh and London
The verdict for May
Long days, mild weather and before the festival crush.
+Edinburgh’s best shoulder-season weather
–Rain is always a possibility
May offers some of Edinburgh’s most reliable weather, with long daylight hours and a city that is lively but not yet overwhelmed by the August festivals.
The best overall month
+Mild weather, long evenings, parks in bloom and major events arrive before summer peak.
–Bank holidays and popular events can create busy weekends.
Everything good about a London summer, before the summer prices.
Scores and crowd levels are my own judgement; temperatures are monthly averages. Higher scores are better: quieter, cheaper and more pleasant.
Another month