London edges it in October. Edinburgh averages 7–13°C with low crowds; London 11–16°C with moderate crowds.
By Daan · Last reviewed October 2026
Edinburgh and London
The verdict for October
Cooler, wetter and settling into autumn.
+Low crowds + good prices
–Edinburgh’s rainfall picks up
October is a quiet, good-value month, well suited to whisky bars, the National Museum of Scotland and other indoor attractions as the weather turns wetter.
Autumn calm
+Autumn atmosphere, cultural events and easier access to major sights.
–Rain increases and daylight drops quickly.
Parks in autumn colour and a strong theatre and gallery season.
Scores and crowd levels are my own judgement; temperatures are monthly averages. Higher scores are better: quieter, cheaper and more pleasant.
Another month