Ireland has a mild and damp climate with no extremes of temperature. Average winter temperatures are between 35 and 45 degrees F, and average summer temperatures between 65 and 75 degrees F. Ireland owes its lush scenery to the high rainfall which is experienced all year round, especially in the mountainous regions. The months from August to January have the heaviest rainfall. Snow is very rare in the lowland areas, but more common in the mountains.

Due to its northern latitude, Ireland has long daylight hours during the summer months, when it is often light until 11 p.m. In early summer (May and June) there are often more than seven hours of sunshine each day, but for much of the year days are overcast.