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Live forecasts update automatically; written guidance last reviewed 16 June 2026 by the Trade Wire UK weather desk. Data from national met services via Open-Meteo.
Pack for a mix of sun and showers if you’re in the UK this July – expect average highs of 18–22°C, but be ready for sudden rain, especially in the north and west. The month often brings the warmest spells of the year, though a settled heatwave is never guaranteed.
What is the typical weather like across the UK in July?
July is usually the warmest month in the UK, with southern England seeing daytime highs around 22°C and northern Scotland closer to 16°C. Rainfall varies widely: London and the South East average about 50mm, while western Scotland and upland areas can see double that. Sunshine hours peak in the south, with up to seven hours a day, but cloud cover is common even on fine days. If you’re planning ahead, a 10-day weather forecast UK will give you a clearer picture of any settled spells or thundery outbreaks.
Could July bring heatwaves or unsettled conditions?
Heatwaves are possible – the Met Office defines them as three consecutive days above a regional threshold (often 25–28°C in southern England). However, July can also deliver cool, wet interludes thanks to Atlantic low pressure. For longer-range planning, a 30 day weather forecast UK offers a broad trend, though accuracy drops beyond a week. The weather in july uk met office outlook typically highlights a split between a drier, warmer south-east and a wetter, cooler north-west.
Is July the hottest month in the UK?
Yes, July typically has the highest average maximum temperatures across the UK, though August is very close. The warmest recorded UK temperature (40.3°C) occurred in July 2022, but such extremes remain rare.
Does it rain a lot in the UK in July?
Rainfall in July is generally lower than in autumn or winter, but it can still be frequent – expect rain on roughly 10–14 days of the month depending on location. The south-east is driest; western Scotland is wettest.
How does July compare to June and August?
July is usually warmer and sunnier than June, with less rain in many areas. August is similar but can be slightly cooler in the north and more prone to thundery downpours. For a broader view, see our 10-day forecast and check the weather in june uk and weather in august uk pages for seasonal comparisons.