Grantown-on-Spey, located in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park in Moray, Scotland, experiences a temperate oceanic climate with distinct seasonal variations. Its inland position and elevation (around 220 metres above sea level) result in cooler temperatures and higher rainfall compared to coastal areas. This article provides a detailed month-by-month overview of average rainfall, temperature, and daylight hours, using data from the Met Office and local weather stations.
Annual Climate Summary
Grantown-on-Spey has an average annual rainfall of approximately 900–1000 mm, with the wettest months typically from October to January. The driest period is late spring to early summer (April to June). Average temperatures range from a low of around 1°C in January to a high of about 17°C in July. Daylight hours vary dramatically from under 7 hours in December to over 17 hours in June.
For a broader perspective, see our annual weather guide for Grantown-on-Spey.
January
January is the coldest month, with average daily maximum temperatures around 5°C and minimums dropping to -1°C. Frost and snow are common, with an average of 10–12 frost days. Rainfall averages 80–90 mm over about 18 rainy days. Daylight hours are at their shortest, with sunrise around 08:45 and sunset near 15:55, giving just over 7 hours of daylight.
February
February remains cold, with average highs of 6°C and lows of -1°C. Snow cover is still possible. Rainfall is similar to January, around 70–80 mm. Daylight begins to increase, with about 9.5 hours by month end. Sunrise moves to 07:30 and sunset to 17:30.
March
March sees a gradual warming, with average highs of 8°C and lows of 1°C. Rainfall is around 70 mm. Daylight hours increase to about 12 hours by the equinox. Snow becomes less frequent, but frosts still occur.
April
April is a transition month with average highs of 11°C and lows of 3°C. Rainfall drops to around 55 mm, making it one of the drier months. Daylight extends to 14–15 hours, with sunrise near 06:00 and sunset at 20:30 (BST).
May
May is mild, with average highs of 14°C and lows of 5°C. Rainfall is low, about 60 mm. Daylight hours are long, reaching 16–17 hours. This is a popular month for outdoor activities. Check our spring walking guide for trail recommendations.
June
June brings the longest days, with over 17.5 hours of daylight (sunrise around 04:15, sunset at 22:00). Average highs reach 17°C, lows around 9°C. Rainfall is moderate, around 65 mm. Thunderstorms are possible.
July
July is the warmest month, with average highs of 18°C and lows of 10°C. Rainfall is similar to June, about 70 mm. Daylight begins to decrease slightly, but still offers over 16 hours. It's the peak tourist season.
August
August remains warm, with highs of 17°C and lows of 10°C. Rainfall increases slightly to 75 mm. Daylight hours drop to about 15 hours. The Grantown-on-Spey Highland Games take place in August.
September
September sees autumn begin, with average highs of 14°C and lows of 7°C. Rainfall rises to 80 mm. Daylight hours are around 13 hours. The weather is often pleasant for walking.
October
October is wetter, with rainfall averaging 90 mm. Temperatures drop to highs of 10°C and lows of 4°C. Daylight hours fall to 10–11 hours. Autumn colours peak. See our autumn colours guide for best viewing spots.
November
November is cold and damp, with highs of 7°C and lows of 1°C. Rainfall is high, around 85 mm. Daylight hours shrink to 8–9 hours. Snow becomes possible toward month end.
December
December is the darkest month, with only 6.5–7 hours of daylight. Temperatures average 5°C max and -1°C min. Rainfall is around 85 mm. Frost and snow are common. For festive events, see our Christmas in Grantown-on-Spey article.
Seasonal Weather Patterns
Spring (March–May)
Spring is a time of increasing daylight and temperatures. Rainfall is relatively low, especially in April. Frosts can persist into May. Average temperatures rise from 8°C in March to 14°C in May.
Summer (June–August)
Summer is mild and pleasant, with long daylight hours. July is the warmest month. Rainfall is moderate, but showers can be frequent. Thunderstorms occur occasionally.
Autumn (September–November)
Autumn sees cooling temperatures and increasing rainfall. September can still be pleasant, but October and November are wet. Daylight decreases rapidly.
Winter (December–February)
Winter is cold with short days. Snow and frost are common. January is the coldest month. Rainfall is high, often as snow in higher areas.
Microclimate and Local Variations
Due to its location in the Spey Valley, Grantown-on-Spey can experience temperature inversions, leading to fog in the valley while hills are clear. The surrounding Cairngorms influence rainfall patterns, with orographic enhancement on windward slopes. Localised frost hollows can make minimum temperatures lower than official averages.
For the most accurate forecasts, check the local weather forecast sources page.