Sheffield weather by month
Sheffield Weather Overview
Welcome to our deep dive into Sheffield’s climate, one of the UK’s most scenic and vibrant cities. Whether you’re planning a trip, moving, or simply curious about local weather patterns, this guide breaks down the weather by month, highlights what to expect, and provides helpful resources for staying comfortable all year round.
January
January is Sheffield’s coldest month, with average highs hovering around 4 °C (39 °F) and lows dipping to –1 °C (30 °F). Snowfall is common, especially in the higher hills, and misty mornings are a familiar sight. Pack woolly layers, waterproof outerwear, and a hat for walking through the historic town centre or the surrounding moors.
February
Temperatures remain chilly, though there’s a slight uptick in sunshine. Average highs are about 5 °C and lows stay near 0 °C. Rainfall continues, but the city experiences fewer snow patches, making February an ideal time for winter sports in nearby Wath Brow or visiting the Sheffield Winter Festival.
March
Spring starts to creep in. Average highs rise to 9 °C, lows to 2 °C. Rain is still frequent, but the days lengthen and more sunshine arrives, especially later in the month. Gardens begin to bloom, giving the city a fresh, vibrant feel—perfect for exploring the Royal Botanical Gardens.
April
April brings a mix of sunny afternoons and occasional showers. Average highs climb to 12 °C, lows to 4 °C. It’s a great month to visit the internationally renowned Sheffield Winter Garden or the historic Bontock Museum during a mild day. Avoid the soggy April showers by carrying a light umbrella.
May
May is the start of true spring. With average highs at 16 °C and lows of 8 °C, the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities. The city’s parks, such as Kelham Island, become lush and inviting—ideal for picnics and cycling. Early May also hosts the popular May Day Festival.
June
Summer kicks off with mild days. Average highs reach 19 °C while lows float around 10 °C. Rainfall decreases, but intermittent showers are still possible. This is prime season for visiting the UNESCO-listed Sheffield Cathedral or enjoying waterfront walks along the River Don.
July
July holds the warmest temperatures: highs near 21 °C and lows around 12 °C. The city buzzes with cultural festivals, including Sheffield’s International Festivals, and the University of Sheffield hosts a vibrant student atmosphere. Outdoor concerts at the Round House are frequent.
August
Temperature stays warm with highs around 21 °C and lows of 13 °C. Sunshine stretches longer, making it ideal for hiking in the Peak District or cycling in the scenic Sheffield Hills. Occasional thundershowers are common during the afternoon.
September
Early autumn begins to soften the heat. Average highs drop to 18 °C; lows sit at 11 °C. Rainfall slightly increases, but evenings remain comfortably mild. It’s an excellent month for exploring the City Hall’s art exhibits or attending the Autumn Fair.
October
Cooler autumn days: highs around 14 °C, lows 7 °C. The city’s streets turn golden, especially during early October. A typical day involves brisk walks in the city parks, coupled with hearty soups in local pubs. Be prepared for occasional rain; a waterproof jacket is essential.
November
The cold starts to firmly settle. Average highs are 9 °C and lows 3 °C. Rainfall is high, and the first snowfall may arrive, especially in higher ground. Despite chilliness, the festive spirit is strong with market stalls featuring winter crafts around the historic market square.
December
The coldest month, December sees highs around 5 °C and lows dropping to –1 °C. Snowfall in the hills is expected, and the city glows with Christmas lights during the holiday season. Snowy walks along the River Don and cozy cafés make for memorable experiences.
Sheffield Weather by Month: Quick Reference
| Month | Avg High (°C) | Avg Low (°C) | Rain Days | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 4 | –1 | 12 | Snow, misty mornings |
| February | 5 | 0 | 11 | Slightly sunnier, fewer snow patches |
| March | 9 | 2 | 9 | More sunshine, early spring bloom |
| April | 12 | 4 | 9 | Garden growth, occasional showers |
| May | 16 | 8 | 8 | Mild, park-friendly |
| June | 19 | 10 | 8 | Warmest early summer |
| July | 21 | 12 | 7 | Festival season, music events |
| August | 21 | 13 | 7 | Outdoor activities, possible showers |
| September | 18 | 11 | 10 | Early autumn, vibrant foliage |
| October | 14 | 7 | 11 | Autumn colours, drizzle |
| November | 9 | 3 | 12 | First snow, festive markets |
| December | 5 | –1 | 12 | Snow, holiday lights, cold nights |
How to Plan Your Visit According to the Weather
- Pack in Layers – Sheffield’s temperatures can swing dramatically in a single day, so layers are a must.
- Carry a Waterproof Jacket – Even in summer, showers arrive unannounced.
- Check Weather Forecasts – Local services like the UK Met Office offer daily updates.
- Plan Indoor Options – Museums, the Winter Garden, and the Sheffield Institute of Art & Design are great rainy‑day escapades.
- Explore Outdoor Trails – The Peak District and Sheffield Hills are spectacular in mild weather; snow routes are best in winter.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: When is the best time to visit Sheffield for mild weather?
A: May through October offer pleasant temperatures (14–21 °C) and lower rainfall—ideal for outdoor activities.
Q2: How often does it snow in Sheffield?
A: Snow mainly falls from November to February, with January being the coldest. Snow on the hills is common, while the city center sees occasional patches.
Q3: Will I need a coat in summer?
A: Even summer evenings can dip to 12 °C, so a light jacket or sweater is advisable for evenings and early mornings.
Q4: Are there any sunny festivals?
A: The July and August periods hold many outdoor festivals. The July Summer Carnival and the August Sheffield Food Festival are popular events.
Q5: What’s the typical rainfall amount per month?
A: Sheffield averages roughly 60–90 mm of rainfall monthly, peaking in November and December.
Resources
- UK Met Office Weather Forecast – https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/weather/forecast
- Sheffield City Council – Weather & Climate – https://www.sheffield.gov.uk/living-here/environment/weather
- Visit Sheffield – Visitor Guide – https://www.visitsheffield.com
- Peak District National Park – Weather & Conditions – https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/peak-district-np/what-to-do/weather
- Sheffield Winter Garden – Calendar & Events – https://sheffieldwintergarden.org.uk
Enjoy your time in Sheffield, wherever the weather takes you—and stay prepared with this handy month‑by‑month overview!
