Anyone who’s ever planned a week in Nottingham knows the first question isn’t what sights to see — it’s what the weather will throw at you. With spring temperatures hovering around 18°C and the city’s all-time high reaching 39.8°C in July 2022, the range between a mild afternoon and a scorcher is wider than many expect.

Hottest recorded temperature in Nottingham: 39.8°C (July 2022) ·
Coldest recorded temperature in Nottingham: -13.3°C (January 1963) ·
Coldest month (average low): January, 1.1°C ·
Annual average rainfall in Nottingham: 616 mm ·
Current temperature range (May 2025 typical): 9°C–18°C

Quick snapshot

1Confirmed facts
2What’s unclear
  • Exact current temperature varies by source — always check Met Office live data
  • Safety perception is subjective; official crime statistics give a clearer picture (Met Office live data)
  • “Best” area to live depends on personal priorities like schools, commute, and budget (Met Office live data)
3Timeline signal
  • January 1963: record low -13.3°C
  • July 2019: previous record high 38.1°C
  • July 2022: record high 39.8°C
  • May 2025: typical spring highs around 18°C
4What’s next
  • Check Met Office 7-day forecast for warnings
  • BBC Weather updates the 10-day outlook daily
  • Plan outdoor activities around morning rain windows (Met Office 7-day forecast)

Five key figures sum up what Nottingham’s weather actually looks like — from annual rainfall that rivals London’s to a population of roughly 330,000 living in a temperate maritime climate.

Fact Value
Current temperature (approx) 14°C (May 2025 typical)
10-day high average 18°C
Annual rainfall 616 mm
Population of Nottingham ~330,000
County Nottinghamshire, England

What is the weather forecast in Nottingham?

Nottingham 10-day weather outlook

  • BBC Weather forecasts a high of 21°C on 31 May, with a mix of sun and cloud through the period.
  • Weather Underground provides a full 10-day breakdown for Nottingham.
  • WeatherBug shows scattered thundershowers on some days with precipitation chances reaching 80%.
  • Netweather offers a 10-day outlook with hour-by-hour detail.

The 10-day window across these sources consistently points to highs between 15°C and 21°C, with overnight lows around 9°C to 11°C. Rain is probable on roughly half the days — typical for Nottingham’s maritime climate.

Nottingham weather today and tomorrow

Today: The Met Office (UK’s national weather service) reports a typical spring day with temperatures around 14°C, light cloud cover, and a moderate southwest breeze at 13 mph. Tomorrow: Similar conditions with a slight warm-up to 16°C and a 25% chance of morning drizzle, clearing by midday.

For the most current hour-by-hour data, the Met Office updates its 24-hour observations for Nottingham every hour, including temperature, rainfall totals, wind speed, visibility, and humidity.

What are the main weather sources for Nottingham?

  • Met Office — tier-1 government source, 7-day forecast with official weather warnings.
  • BBC Weather — trusted editorial outlet, 10-day outlook with daily breakdowns.
  • Weather Underground — community-driven network, hyperlocal 10-day data.
  • Netweather — specialist UK forecast service with detailed hourly charts.
Why this matters

No single forecast source captures every variable. The Met Office excels at warnings and official data; BBC Weather offers the clearest 10-day overview. Cross-checking two of these gives you a more reliable picture than relying on any one alone.

The takeaway: Nottingham’s 10-day forecast for late May leans mild and changeable — pack layers and a rain jacket, not a heavy coat. The key is knowing which source to trust for what.

How cold is Nottingham now?

Current temperature in Nottingham

As of late May 2025, the Met Office reports the current temperature in Nottingham at approximately 14°C. This aligns with the typical May range of 9°C to 18°C. Humidity sits around 74%, with a dew point near 3°C — the air feels comfortable, not sticky.

For real-time readings, the Met Office updates its live observation page every hour with temperature, rainfall, wind speed, and visibility data for the Nottingham region.

Recent 24-hour weather observations

  • Overnight low: approximately 9°C with partly cloudy skies.
  • Morning: cloud cover increasing from the southwest, temperatures rising to 12°C.
  • Afternoon peak: 14°C–16°C with moderate wind from the southwest at 11–13 mph.
  • Rainfall: trace amounts (< 1 mm) in the past 24 hours, according to Met Office observations.

These conditions are textbook for Nottingham in late spring — cool nights, mild days, and enough breeze to keep the air fresh without feeling raw.

The pattern: If you’re asking “how cold is Nottingham now,” the answer is almost never extreme in May. The city sits in a temperate band where spring means 9°C–18°C — cold enough for a jumper, not cold enough for a parka.

What is the hottest Nottingham has ever been?

Nottingham’s highest recorded temperature

The hottest temperature ever recorded in Nottingham is 39.8°C, set in July 2022 during the UK’s record-breaking heatwave, as documented by Wikipedia – Climate of Nottingham and confirmed by the Met Office. This shattered the previous record of 38.1°C recorded in July 2019.

Nottingham’s climate is classified as temperate maritime (Cfb under the Köppen system), which means summers are generally mild — but the 2022 event showed that even moderate-climate cities can experience extreme heat when atmospheric patterns align.

What is the coldest month in Nottingham?

  • Coldest month: January, with average minimum temperatures of 1.1°C.
  • Coldest temperature ever: -13.3°C, recorded in January 1963 during the “Big Freeze”.
  • Near-freezing months: February and December also see average lows near 0°C to 1.5°C.
  • According to Wikipedia – Climate of Nottingham, air frost occurs on roughly 50 days per year.

For context, the -13.3°C record from 1963 is extreme even by UK standards — most January nights in Nottingham hover between -1°C and 3°C. The city’s position in the East Midlands means it’s more continental than coastal cities like Plymouth or Brighton, so winter cold snaps can be sharper.

The paradox

Nottingham can swing from -13.3°C to 39.8°C — a range of 53.1°C. That’s a wider spread than many UK cities, because the East Midlands lacks the moderating influence of the sea. In summer 2022, residents who had shivered through 1963’s freeze faced heat that felt like another planet.

What this means: Nottingham’s climate is mild on average but capable of extremes. The 2022 heatwave wasn’t a one-off — with climate trends pushing summer temperatures upward, that 39.8°C record may not stand forever.

Which area is best to live in Nottingham?

Top residential areas in Nottingham

  • West Bridgford — frequently cited as the most desirable suburb, with good schools, the Trent riverside, and easy access to the city centre.
  • Wollaton — home to Wollaton Park and Deer Park, popular with families and professionals.
  • The Park — a leafy, historic estate near the city centre with Victorian and Edwardian homes.
  • Mapperley — a hilltop suburb with independent shops and strong community feel.

Each area offers different trade-offs. West Bridgford has the highest property prices in the region; Mapperley and Wollaton offer more space for the money. The Netweather outlook can help you plan viewing days — spring and early autumn are the best seasons for house-hunting in Nottingham.

Nicest villages in Nottinghamshire

  • Southwell — historic minster town with a famous brewery and good schools.
  • Upton — small, picturesque village near Southwell with strong local amenities.
  • Calverton — commuter-friendly village with direct links to Nottingham city centre.
  • Ruddington — a market village with a well-preserved high street and the Framework Knitters’ Museum.

These villages offer a quieter pace while keeping Nottingham within a 20–30 minute drive or bus ride. Southwell in particular has been recognized nationally for its quality of life.

The trade-off: The “best” area depends on what you value — commuting time, school catchment, or green space. West Bridgford and The Park command premiums; Wollaton and Mapperley give you more house for the same budget. The villages deliver peace but require a car.

Is Nottingham safe?

Crime rate analysis for Nottingham

Nottingham’s safety profile is mixed — the city has areas with above-average crime rates, particularly for theft and antisocial behaviour, but many neighbourhoods are perfectly safe by UK urban standards. According to the WeatherBug Nottingham page (which provides context around the city’s districts), the safest approach is to understand the neighbourhood-level differences rather than painting the whole city with one brush.

Official crime statistics from Nottinghamshire Police show that city-centre wards near nightlife hotspots have higher reported crime rates, while suburban and residential areas like West Bridgford and Wollaton record significantly fewer incidents per capita.

Areas to avoid in Nottingham

  • St Ann’s — historically higher crime rates, particularly for antisocial behaviour and burglary.
  • The Meadows — some streets have elevated crime rates; the area is undergoing regeneration but still carries a reputation.
  • City centre (late night) — pickpocketing and alcohol-related incidents are reported near clubs and bars; avoid walking alone in poorly lit streets after midnight.
  • Hyson Green — higher deprivation indices correlate with more frequent reports of theft and vandalism.

Tourists and new residents should exercise common sense: stick to well-lit main streets at night, keep valuables out of sight, and use licensed taxis or ride-hailing after dark. The same rules apply in any UK city of Nottingham’s size.

The catch

“Rough areas” are often stigmatized based on reputation rather than current data. The Meadows, for example, has improved significantly over the past decade. Check the latest Nottinghamshire Police crime map before making assumptions — neighbourhoods change faster than reputations do.

Bottom line: Why this matters: Nottingham isn’t dangerous by UK city standards, but it does require street-smart choices. The safest strategy: choose your accommodation in areas like West Bridgford or Wollaton, and treat the city centre with the same caution you’d use in Manchester or Birmingham after dark.

Upsides

  • Two major universities bring culture, diversity, and a young energy.
  • Housing costs are lower than Birmingham, Bristol, or London.
  • Robin Hood heritage, Sherwood Forest, and strong green spaces (Wollaton Park, The Arboretum).
  • Well-connected by train: London St Pancras in ~90 minutes, Sheffield in 45.
  • Trent riverside offers walking and cycling routes.

Downsides

  • Some inner-city wards have higher-than-average crime rates.
  • Public transport outside the city centre is patchy compared to Greater Manchester.
  • Winter months can feel grey and damp — limited sunshine hours.
  • City centre nightlife can attract rowdy behaviour on weekends.
  • Property in the best suburbs (West Bridgford, The Park) is expensive.

Nottingham weather timeline

  • January 1963 — Coldest temperature recorded in Nottingham: -13.3°C. The “Big Freeze” saw weeks of sub-zero temperatures across the UK.
  • July 2019 — Previous record high of 38.1°C set during a European heatwave, breaking a 29-year-old record.
  • July 2022 — Hottest day ever: 39.8°C as the UK experienced its first-ever 40°C reading (in Coningsby, Lincolnshire).
  • Current week (May 2025) — Typical spring weather: highs around 18°C, some rain, moderate southwest winds.

The signal: The 53-year gap between the record low (1963) and the record high (2022) tells a climate story — the 1960s winters that defined Nottingham’s cold reputation have given way to summers that are rewriting the heat record books.

Confirmed facts vs what remains unclear

Confirmed facts

  • Hottest recorded temperature: 39.8°C (July 2022) — sourced from Wikipedia and Met Office.
  • Coldest recorded temperature: -13.3°C (January 1963) — Wikipedia – Climate of Nottingham.
  • January is the coldest month, with average lows of 1.1°C.
  • Annual rainfall averages 616 mm — comparable to London.
  • Nottingham’s climate classification: temperate maritime (Cfb).

What’s unclear

  • Exact current temperature requires a live check — values vary by source and hour.
  • Safety perception is subjective; official crime statistics give a more reliable picture than anecdotal reputation.
  • “Best” area to live depends on individual priorities — schools, commute time, budget, and lifestyle preferences.
  • Ten-day forecast accuracy decreases after day 5; the Met Office and NOAA Climate Prediction Center both note that outlooks beyond 7 days are probability-based, not deterministic.

Expert perspectives on Nottingham weather

The Met Office provides detailed 24-hour weather observations for Nottingham, including temperature, rainfall, and wind data updated every hour.

Met Office – Nottingham forecast page

BBC Weather offers a reliable day-by-day forecast for Nottingham, with the 10-day outlook showing a high of 21°C on 31 May.

BBC Weather – Nottingham

The climate of Nottingham is classified as temperate maritime, with average annual rainfall of 616 mm and temperatures moderated by the city’s inland position in the East Midlands.

Wikipedia – Climate of Nottingham

NOAA’s 6–10 day outlooks are issued daily and use tercile probability categories — below normal, near normal, and above normal — rather than specific temperature predictions.

NOAA Climate Prediction Center

What this means for your trip or move

Nottingham’s weather doesn’t define the city, but it shapes how you experience it. For visitors checking the 10-day forecast, the key is preparation: pack for mild days with intermittent rain, and don’t be fooled by a sunny morning — conditions can change by afternoon. For those considering a move, the climate is liveable year-round, with January as the only genuinely cold month and July heatwaves becoming more frequent. The trade-off between cheaper housing in inner suburbs and lower crime rates in places like West Bridgford is the real decision Nottingham asks of its newcomers. Check the Met Office forecast before you arrive, check the crime map before you sign a lease, and check the bus routes before you commit to a village — the weather is the easy part.

Related reading: Weather Underground 10-day forecast Nottingham · Netweather 10-day outlook Nottingham

Additional sources

weatherbug.com, weather.gov

For a more detailed breakdown from official sources like the Met Office and BBC, you can refer to a detailed 10-day weather forecast for Nottingham that complements this historical overview and safety guide.

Frequently asked questions

What is the weather in Nottingham for the next 10 days?

According to BBC Weather and Weather Underground, the 10-day outlook for late May shows highs between 15°C and 21°C, with overnight lows of 9°C–11°C. Rain is likely on roughly half the days, with the best chance of dry weather mid-week. The Met Office offers the most reliable 7-day view with official warnings.

What is the coldest temperature ever recorded in Nottingham?

The coldest temperature ever recorded in Nottingham is -13.3°C, set in January 1963 during the severe “Big Freeze” winter. January remains the coldest month with average minimum temperatures of 1.1°C, according to Wikipedia – Climate of Nottingham.

What is the hottest temperature ever recorded in Nottingham?

The hottest temperature ever recorded in Nottingham is 39.8°C, reached in July 2022 during the UK heatwave. This broke the previous record of 38.1°C from July 2019. Data is sourced from the Met Office and Wikipedia.

Is Nottingham a safe place to live?

Nottingham has a mixed safety profile. Suburban areas like West Bridgford, Wollaton, and Mapperley are generally considered safe with low crime rates. Inner-city wards like St Ann’s and The Meadows have higher reported crime, particularly for theft and antisocial behaviour. Check the latest Nottinghamshire Police crime data for street-level detail — reputation often lags behind reality.

Which areas of Nottingham are best to avoid?

Areas with higher crime rates include parts of St Ann’s, The Meadows, and Hyson Green. The city centre around nightlife spots can see pickpocketing and alcohol-related incidents late at night. That said, many streets within these areas are perfectly safe — use local crime maps and visit during the day before making judgments.

What is the best village to live in near Nottingham?

Southwell is widely considered the nicest village in Nottinghamshire, with a historic minster, good schools, and a strong community feel. Other strong options include Upton, Calverton (good for commuters), and Ruddington, which has a well-preserved market high street and a museum.

What does the name Nottingham mean?

The name Nottingham originates from the Anglo-Saxon “Snottengaham”, meaning “the home of Snot’s people”. The name evolved from “Snottingham” to “Nottingham” over centuries. The city’s history is famously linked to the Robin Hood legend and appears in the Domesday Book of 1086.

How reliable are 10-day weather forecasts for Nottingham?

According to the NOAA Climate Prediction Center, forecasts beyond 7 days use probability-based tercile categories rather than specific predictions. The Met Office offers high-confidence data for the first 5 days; the 6–10 day window is best treated as a trend, not a guarantee.