Weather in the Peak District

The weather in the Peak District can be unpredictable so we would always advise to pack for ‘all weathers’. It's advisable to check the weather forecast before heading on a long walk or doing certain outdoor activities. Although just because it is not good weather where you are staying, that may not be true for the whole area so it is worth checking other areas you could spend the day. 

Generally, in Peak District National Park, the summers are cool and partly cloudy and the winters are long, very cold, windy, and mostly cloudy. 

Over the course of the year, the temperature typically varies from 0°C to 19°C and is rarely below -5°C or above 24°C.

Snow is common during the winter months, particularly at higher elevations and the cool season in the Peak District normally lasts for 4 months, from 16th November to 16th March, with an average daily high temperature below 8°C.  The coldest month of the year in Peak District National Park is January, with an average low of 0°C and high of 5°C.

The snowy weather makes for a great walk in the Peaks, with its stunning winter wonderland landscapes, particularly on those crisp winter days when the sunshine makes for excellent walking weather. 

Visiting the Peak District during the Winter months is a great time to explore all it has to offer, from the many caves, castles, and historic buildings, not to mention the many pubs you can reside in if the weather suddenly changes! 

As long as you are well prepared for those winter walks it can be a very enjoyable, peaceful stroll, and Chatsworth House inparticular can be a magical sight to see in the snow! 

The warm season lasts for 3 months, from 12th June to 10th September, with an average daily high temperature above 16°C. The hottest month of the year in Peak District National Park is July, with an average high of 18°C and low of 10°C.

For most tourists, the best time of year to visit the Peak District for warm-weather activities is from early July to late August and the Peak District Landscape puts on quite a show with its flowers and wildlife at it's busiest, and the vibrant hues of colour popping up everywhere, especially the abundance of heather, which makes for some great photography shots!

With longer days and lighter evenings, there is plenty of time to go out and explore during the Summer Months, and cram as much as you like into your days!  Just remember to be well-prepared for the hotter days out walking and also remember the weather can change unpredictably out in the Peaks, so you may need extra items.  

You can see more in-depth information on Weatherspark.

Peak Venues have put together a handy list of essential items to pack when out exploring the Peak District.  

See our Planning a walking weekend blog and our Walking Page for suitable walks. 

Check the latest weather reports through the Met Office.