Last updated: March 17, 2025
In Bristol, United Kingdom, December presents a tapestry of winter weather characterized by a maximum temperature of 14°C (58°F), an average of 7°C (44°F), and a chilling minimum that dips to -5°C (24°F). During this month, precipitation is a frequent occurrence, with a total accumulation of 90 mm (3.5 in) spread over 15 days, contributing to the city's lush and vibrant atmosphere. Wrapped in a shroud of 89% humidity, December in Bristol offers a mix of brisk chill and the cozy charm of a city preparing for the festive season.
In December, Bristol experiences a cool and somewhat brisk climate, with temperatures typically ranging from a chilly -5°C (24°F) at night to an average daytime high of 7°C (44°F). As winter takes hold, the city's temperatures begin to drop, reflecting the trend of colder months that culminates in January's peak frosts. Despite the chill, daily highs can still reach around 14°C (58°F), offering a mild respite during the day. This month notably marks a transition, where the average temperature hovers at its lowest point for the year, juxtaposed with the festive atmosphere that encompasses the city. While the frosty nights might call for extra layers, the charm of Bristol in December—coupled with its mix of winter spirit and historic ambiance—makes it a unique and inviting time to explore.
December in Bristol marks a notably wet transition into winter, with precipitation reaching 90 mm (3.5 in) over an average of 15 days. This significant uptick in rain is part of a broader trend observed throughout the year, where late autumn and early winter months experience higher precipitation levels. In fact, December's rainfall surpasses that of November and is only slightly lower than the exceptionally wet October. As the year closes, residents can expect the skies to be frequently grey, reflecting a seasonal shift that brings the damp chill of winter. This pattern indicates that while Bristol is accustomed to its fair share of rain, December stands out as a particularly soggy month in the city's climatological calendar.
As winter settles in, December in Bristol, United Kingdom, continues the trend of high humidity, with levels reaching a notable 89%. This marks a slight decrease from the previous month's peak of 90%, but still keeps humidity well above the milder summer months, which saw lows of 70% in July. The data reflects a cool, damp climate typical for the region during this time of year, as the air remains moist and carries the signature chill of winter. Intriguingly, Bristol's humidity in December closely mirrors the patterns seen at the start of the year—both January and February also boast high levels of 88%. Overall, the persistence of elevated humidity throughout the colder months contributes to the city's reputation for a damp winter setting.
As December rolls in, Bristol experiences a significant drop in UV exposure, reflecting the seasonal shift towards cooler weather. With a UV Index of 1, the risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure remains low, allowing for a comfortable burn time of 45 minutes. This marks a return to the safety levels seen in January and November, contrasting sharply with the intense sunshine of the summer months when the UV Index peaked at 8. Overall, the monthly trends reveal a gradual decline in UV levels as the year comes to a close, making this a perfect time for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy the crisp air without the worry of sunburn. For more detailed insights on UV levels throughout the year, check out Bristol UV Index.
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As December ushers in the winter chill in Bristol, the city experiences a gentle decline in sunshine, with just 108 hours of bright days to savor. This marks a notable contrast to the summer months, where July shines the brightest with 395 hours of sun, making it the peak of warmth and light. Following the vibrant spring and summer, the days grow shorter, leading to a gradual reduction in sunlight through autumn. Even during December’s dwindling days, Bristol's charm remains, inviting residents and visitors alike to embrace the cozy atmosphere as they await the gradual return of longer days in the new year.
In Bristol, the likelihood of experiencing sunny weather in December is relatively low, sitting at just 20%. This trend reflects a gradual decline in sunshine opportunities as the year winds down, with only January and February sharing similar statistics. Interestingly, the possibility of sunshine peaks during the spring months, especially in April, which enjoys a significantly higher 52% chance, while the summer months, particularly July, also offer a modest boost. As we transition from the vibrant warmth of autumn into winter's embrace, December may present a gloomy atmosphere, aligning with the city's overall trend towards less sun in the colder months.
As December descends upon Bristol, the daylight duration dwindles to a modest 7 hours, marking the year's lowest point. This reduction follows a gradual decline from the lush brightness of 16 hours in June and July, gradually tapering through the autumn months. After enjoying the late sunsets of summer, the shift to 8 hours in November reveals the melancholic approach of winter, where daylight slips further each day. With shorter days, the arrival of December brings a cozy intimacy as the city prepares for the festive season, contrasting with the longer days of spring and summer that soon lie ahead.
As December sweeps into Bristol, the wind picks up slightly, averaging 4.4 m/s (10 mph), marking a slight increase from the calm of late autumn months. This trend reflects a return to the generally brisk winds characteristic of winter, as seen in earlier months like January and October, which also boast similar averages. Interestingly, the overall wind speed tends to fluctuate throughout the year, with the calmest periods occurring in the height of summer; July and August see a dip to just 3.1 m/s (7 mph). As the year draws to a close, December’s winds remind us that winter is just around the corner, invigorating the air and preparing Bristol for the chilly days ahead.
The weather in Bristol changes throughout the year, offering a unique experience in each season. Below is a month-by-month comparison of December's weather with other months, highlighting differences in temperature, precipitation, and other key factors. Click on each section to discover seasonal trends in Bristol and find detailed weather information for every month.
December and January both feature cool temperatures, but January tends to be slightly milder on average. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -5°C (24°F) to a maximum of 14°C (58°F), while January shows a minor increase with temperatures ranging from -4°C (25°F) to the same maximum. Precipitation also differs, with December receiving about 90 mm (3.5 in) over 15 days compared to January's 56 mm (2.2 in) over 10 days, indicating a drier month. Humidity remains high in both months, hovering around 88% in January and rising slightly to 89% in December. For more specifics on January weather in Bristol, you can refer to Bristol weather in January.
December and February present distinct yet somewhat similar weather patterns. In December, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -5°C (24°F) to a more moderate maximum of 14°C (58°F), with an average around 7°C (44°F). The month experiences around 90 mm (3.5 in) of precipitation spread over 15 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 89%. In contrast, February sees slightly milder conditions, with temperatures from -5°C (23°F) to a peak of 18°C (64°F), averaging at 6°C (44°F). Additionally, February has less rainfall at 67 mm (2.6 in) across 13 days, while maintaining a similarly high humidity of 88%. For more details, check out the specifics of Bristol weather in February.
December and March exhibit distinct weather characteristics that reflect the transition from winter to spring. In December, temperatures range from a chilly -5°C (24°F) to a milder max of 14°C (58°F), with an average temperature around 7°C (44°F). The month is marked by significant precipitation of 90 mm (3.5 in) over 15 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 89%. In contrast, March shows a slight increase in average temperature, remaining around 7°C (46°F) but sees higher maximum temperatures reaching up to 21°C (71°F). With 74 mm (2.9 in) of precipitation over 14 days and a slightly lower humidity of 86%, March begins to hint at the upcoming warmth of spring. For more detailed insights, you can check Bristol weather in March.
December and April present quite different weather experiences. In December, temperatures range from a chilly -5°C (24°F) at night to an average of 7°C (44°F) during the day, peaking at 14°C (58°F). This month also tends to be wetter, with around 90 mm (3.5 in) of precipitation over 15 days, and a high humidity level of 89%. In contrast, April enjoys milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from -3°C (27°F) to a warmer average of 9°C (49°F) and a maximum of 23°C (74°F). The rainfall drops significantly, totaling just 50 mm (2.0 in) across 8 days, and humidity is slightly lower at 84%. For more detailed insights on April weather, check out Bristol weather in April.
When comparing the weather in December and May, we see distinct differences in temperature and overall climate conditions. In December, temperatures can drop to a minimum of -5°C (24°F), with an average of 7°C (44°F) and a maximum reaching 14°C (58°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 89% and significant precipitation, totaling 90 mm (3.5 in) over approximately 15 days.
In contrast, May offers a more temperate climate, with minimum temperatures starting at 0°C (33°F) and an average reaching 12°C (55°F). Daytime highs can soar to 26°C (79°F), and while precipitation is present, it is less intense at 73 mm (2.9 in) over 11 days and with lower humidity at 80%. For more detailed information about Bristol weather in May, you can check Bristol weather in May.
December and June present stark contrasts in weather. In December, temperatures typically range from a chilly -5°C (24°F) to a mild 14°C (58°F), with an average of 7°C (44°F). The month experiences considerable precipitation, totaling 90 mm (3.5 in) over about 15 days, and high humidity at 89%. In contrast, June boasts much warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 6°C (44°F) to a maximum of 31°C (88°F), averaging around 16°C (61°F). Although June receives less precipitation at 72 mm (2.8 in) over approximately 12 days, the humidity is slightly lower at 80%. For a detailed look at June weather in Bristol, you can check Bristol weather in June.
In December, the weather is notably colder, with temperatures ranging from a brisk -5°C (24°F) at night to a milder 14°C (58°F) during the day, while July offers a much warmer experience with temperatures varying from 7°C (46°F) to a maximum of 30°C (87°F). December sees higher humidity levels at 89% and more frequent precipitation, averaging 90 mm over 15 days, compared to July's lower humidity of 70% and 68 mm of rainfall spread over 11 days. For a detailed look at summer conditions, check out Bristol weather in July.
December and August present a stark contrast in weather conditions. In December, temperatures can dip as low as -5°C (24°F) and average around 7°C (44°F), peaking at a mild 14°C (58°F). This month sees significant precipitation, with about 90 mm (3.5 in) spread over 15 days and a high humidity level of 89%. In comparison, August offers much warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 8°C (46°F) and an average of 17°C (63°F), reaching a maximum of 32°C (90°F). Although August has slightly less rainfall at 78 mm (3.1 in) over 12 days, the humidity is notably lower at 73%. For more details on the August weather, visit Bristol weather in August.
December's weather contrasts sharply with September's milder conditions. While December boasts temperatures ranging from a chilly -5°C (24°F) to a maximum of 14°C (58°F), September enjoys a much warmer average of 15°C (59°F) and peak temperatures reaching up to 29°C (84°F). Moreover, December is marked by increased precipitation, averaging 90 mm (3.5 in) over 15 days, compared to September's lighter rainfall of 55 mm (2.2 in) spread across 9 days. Humidity levels also differ, with December at a damp 89% versus September's more comfortable 79%. For more details, you can check Bristol weather in September.
When comparing the weather in December and October, we see notable differences in temperature and precipitation. December tends to be colder, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -5°C (24°F) to a maximum of 14°C (58°F), while October is milder with an average low of -1°C (31°F) and highs reaching up to 23°C (73°F). Precipitation is relatively similar, with December experiencing 90 mm (3.5 in) over 15 days compared to October's 101 mm (4.0 in) across 14 days. Interestingly, both months maintain a high humidity level of 89%. For a closer look at October's climate, you can check out the details here: Bristol weather in October.
In comparing the weather conditions of December and November, December tends to be slightly colder and wetter. The minimum temperature in December dips to -5°C (24°F), while November remains milder with a low of -2°C (28°F). Average temperatures are almost similar, with December averaging 7°C (44°F) compared to November’s 8°C (47°F). December experiences considerably more precipitation, totaling 90 mm (3.5 in) over 15 days, whereas November sees only 66 mm (2.6 in) across 13 days of rainfall. Humidity levels remain high in both months, with December at 89% and November at 90%. For a more detailed understanding of November's weather, you can visit Bristol weather in November.
As December settles over Bristol, the city experiences a distinct shift in weather patterns compared to other months. Temperatures dip to a cool average around 7°C (44°F), with occasional frosty mornings plunging to as low as -5°C (24°F). This month is characterized by frequent precipitation, with rain gracing the city on nearly half the days, resulting in an overall humidity level of 89%. While the maximums can still reach a mild 14°C (58°F), December brings a chill that heralds the onset of winter. To learn more about Bristol's climate and how it varies throughout the year, visit Bristol Climate.