Temperatures take a jump in March in Edinburgh, but they may still be too cold for some holiday seekers. However, as long as you can brave the cold, this can be a good time to visit as airlines and hotels are still offering lower fares and the city is beginning to awaken after a long winter slumber. Additionally, you will be saving money without having to fight the crowds that descend on the city during the summer months.
Despite the warmer conditions, you will still need to bring some rain gear in order to be truly comfortable while exploring the city. After seeing slightly drier conditions in February, rainfall amounts climb again during this time of the year. On average, the city will experience 70mm of precipitation over a period of 22 days. With most days seeing some rainfall, a raincoat or umbrella should be one of the first things packed. However, there is more sun now than the region has experienced in months. On average, the city will see 6 hours of sunshine per day.
Even with the sun and slightly warmer temperatures, the sea surface temperatures are still some of the coldest of the year. In fact, water temperatures have remained steady from the previous month to this one at 7°C (45°F). It will still be a few more months before the local beaches are open for business.
Heavy jackets, sweaters and scarves are still a necessity this time of the year, especially in the early morning hours. The average overnight low is just 2°C (36°F). The warmer weather is felt in the afternoon hours where the afternoon high has jumped significantly from the previous month to a current average of 9°C (48°F). Overall, the average daily temperature is 6°C (43°F). From here on out, temperatures will continue to climb through the rest of spring and into summer.
Where to Stay
Built in 1883, the Malmaison Hotel Edinburgh offers 100 guestrooms that are all lavishly appointed and have stunning views of the harbour. Located in a prime spot to easily access all the major sites, the hotel is home to an award-winning restaurant and one of the best bars in the city. Be sure to book early as this boutique hotel fills up quickly.
If you need a little more room for your March holiday, then the Knight Residence is the answer. These luxurious apartments are located in the center of the city and offer all the comforts of home. Guests have the choice of one, two or three bedroom units that come with a fully equipped kitchen, washer and dryer and much more.
The Bonham is a boutique, four-star hotel offering just 49 guest rooms. Perfect for a quick holiday, the hotel is stylish and contemporary with each room being individually decorated. There are several different room types available that are perfect for a family or for a couple.
Restaurants and Nightlife
Mixing new and old techniques along with fresh ingredients Purslane Restaurant is one of the finest in the city. With a casual fine dining experience, guests are treated to a warm, relaxing atmosphere with a friendly staff that will be there for anything you need throughout the meal.
Guests at Meze Meze are treated to some of the best Turkish food in all of Edinburgh. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, the atmosphere is warm and inviting and dishes include the freshest ingredients. Because it is a small restaurant, reservations are highly recommended.
With over 310 single malts, one of the best bars in the city is known as Bow Bar. You will not be disappointed at this bar, which won Edinburgh Pub of the Year in 2012 and has been named as one of the best whiskey bars in the world. This authentic Scottish pub is a favourite of both locals and tourists and keeps not only a huge selection of scotch and whiskey, but also beers from around the world.
Things to Do
Explore the underground tunnels and chambers of Gilmerton Cove in order to escape the cold of March in Edinburgh. While there are many theories as the origins of the passageways, no one quite knows for certain why they are there. Opened to the public as a tourist attraction in 2003, visitors can now explore this underground world. Just be sure to make an appointment first as there are no walk up tickets available.
One of the most fun tours in the city, for adults only, is The Scotch Whiskey Experience. Various tours of differing lengths are available as become a whiskey connoisseur and get to taste the final product. One tour even includes a master class in order to become more of an expert. Reservations are recommended, especially for the longer tours.
