Birmingham Weather in December

December weather in Birmingham

December feels cold, damp and often grey. Expect highs around 7°C and lows near 2°C, with rain on 15 days. Short daylight and little sunshine can make afternoons feel brief, so plan outdoor sightseeing around the weather.

Birmingham's museums and indoor sights work well on wet days. Try the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, or browse the shops at the Bullring. A walk along the canals can still be pleasant between showers, but muddy paths and chilly rain make longer outdoor plans less appealing.

Christmas sights and crowds

The Frankfurt Christmas Market fills Victoria Square and New Street with stalls, food and seasonal decorations. It's a popular stop, especially on weekends, so the centre can feel crowded. Christmas Day brings major closures, while opening hours also change around the holiday.

Families who enjoy festive lights and market treats may find the city centre especially fun, though quieter weekdays are easier for browsing. December isn't Birmingham's best month for mild weather; June to September are better for longer days and outdoor plans.

Costs and a local tip

Compared with summer, December can be a mixed bag for prices. The Christmas market and holiday period bring more visitors, and rooms may cost more around busy dates. Outside those peaks, winter can be a quieter time for a city break.

For a simple route between the market and the canals, walk from Victoria Square down to the Mailbox, then follow the water towards Brindleyplace. You can duck into cafés or shops if the rain sets in. Try a Birmingham balti in the Balti Triangle for a warming dinner after a cold day.