London in autumn feels different—cooler days, shorter daylight, and a shift in the city’s overall vibe. Average fall weather in London ranges from mild early September temperatures near 70°F (21°C) to chilly late November days closer to 50°F (10°C), with cloud cover and rainfall chances steadily increasing. This seasonal change not only affects your wardrobe but also shapes how and when you spend time outside.
You’ll notice crisp mornings and gray skies rolling in more often, with the wind picking up as weeks go by. Rain falls often, though it’s usually light, so tossing a jacket and umbrella in your bag just makes sense. The parks glow gold and orange, and even a quick walk feels like you’re stepping into the season.
As daylight fades, London leans into cozy pubs, autumn events, and a slower, more relaxed pace. If you know what to expect from the weather, you can plan for comfort—whether you’re wandering through markets, ducking into museums, or strolling along the Thames.
Overview of Fall Weather in London
Fall in London brings cooler temperatures, shorter days, and cloudier skies. Rain starts showing up more frequently, and winds pick up as autumn rolls on. You’ll end up planning your outfits and outings around these changes.
Defining Fall and Autumn in the UK
People in the UK use both fall and autumn, but “autumn” is the classic British term. The season runs from September to November, marking the shift from late summer’s warmth to early winter’s damp chill.
During autumn, daylight drops off fast. In early September, you get over 13 hours of daylight, but by late November, it’s just over 8 hours. This quick change means earlier sunsets and later sunrises.
At the end of October, the clocks shift from British Summer Time to Greenwich Mean Time, so evenings get darker an hour earlier. Honestly, it makes the season feel even shorter and a bit colder.
Typical Weather Patterns in Autumn
London starts autumn with average highs near 70°F (21°C) in September and ends up around 50°F (10°C) by late November. Nighttime lows dip from 57°F (14°C) to about 42°F (6°C). Freezing temps are rare, but by November, nights feel pretty chilly.
Clouds roll in more often as autumn progresses. September starts clearer, but by late fall, overcast skies seem to win most days. Rain picks up a little, with monthly totals between 1.5 and 2 inches. Wet days come more often, so an umbrella is your friend.
Winds pick up, averaging 10-12 mph. They’re not wild, but gusts can make damp days feel colder. Humidity stays moderate, and you won’t really run into muggy weather.
How London’s Fall Differs From Other Seasons
Autumn feels cooler, cloudier, and wetter than summer. You lose hours of daylight, and evenings suddenly get dark a lot earlier than in July. Outdoor events still happen, but you’ll want warmer clothes and a backup plan for rain.
Winter gets colder and gloomier, with even shorter days and more frost. Autumn usually keeps temperatures above freezing, so it’s still comfortable for walking around and sightseeing.
Spring brings milder, brighter days, and less stubborn cloud cover. In autumn, it’s the opposite—less daylight, more rain, and stronger winds. This shift really changes how you experience the city.
Monthly Breakdown of Fall Weather
London’s temperatures drop steadily in autumn, daylight shrinks fast, and rain becomes more common. Cloud cover thickens as the weeks go by, so the season feels pretty different from start to finish.
September: Late Summer to Early Autumn
September often hangs onto a bit of summer, though cooler air sneaks in. Daytime highs start near 21°C (70°F) and slide down to 18°C (64°F) by month’s end. Nights are still mild, averaging 12–14°C (54–57°F).
You’ll see a decent number of clear or partly cloudy days, especially early in the month. Rain falls moderately, with about 38 mm over September. Showers usually don’t last long.
Daylight fades quickly. Early in September, sunset is around 7:45 PM, but by the end, it’s before 6:45 PM. Evenings suddenly feel cooler and darker.
October: Peak Autumn Changes
October brings the most obvious seasonal changes. Highs drop to about 14–16°C (57–61°F), and lows dip to 8–10°C (46–50°F). Layering becomes essential, since mornings often start chilly and damp.
Clouds take over quickly. By mid-October, most days are overcast, with clouds on about two-thirds of days. Rain increases, averaging 50–56 mm for the month, but it’s usually light rather than heavy.
Winds get stronger, mostly from the west. Gusty days can make it feel colder than the numbers suggest. The clocks go back late in October, so sunsets shift to about 4:45 PM—and evenings get dark fast.
November: Transition to Winter
November edges into winter territory. Highs average 10–12°C (50–54°F), and lows often sink to 5°C (41°F) or below. Frost can show up overnight, but snow is still rare.
Clouds dominate, with overcast skies about 70% of the time. Rain stays frequent, with totals near 50 mm. Drizzle and damp days outnumber any big storms.
Daylight hits its shortest point, with sunsets before 4:00 PM by month’s end. The mix of short days, cooler temps, and constant clouds gives November a real wintry mood, even before winter officially starts.
Temperature Ranges and Climate Data
London’s autumn brings steady temperature drops, more rain, and much shorter days. You’ll adjust your plans and outfits as the season progresses.
Average Daytime and Nighttime Temperatures
Early autumn days often reach 21°C (70°F), but by late November, highs fall to about 10°C (50°F). Nights cool off too, starting near 14°C (57°F) in September and dipping to 5°C (41°F) by season’s end.
It’s pretty rare to see temperatures below 1°C (34°F) in autumn, though it can feel chilly in the mornings. Frost doesn’t show up often, but evenings in October and November definitely get cold.
Just for comparison, London’s hottest summer days average around 23°C (73°F), and the coldest winter days sit at 4–9°C (39–48°F). Autumn lands between those extremes, but you’ll notice the change each week.
Rainfall and Precipitation Trends
Rain picks up as autumn goes on. In early September, the chance of a wet day sits around 22%, climbing to almost 30% by late November. London gets about 38 mm of rain in September, rising to about 50 mm by November.
Showers tend to be light or moderate, not heavy downpours. You’ll run into drizzle on plenty of days, and sometimes a quick burst of heavier rain. Having an umbrella or waterproof jacket is just smart.
The wettest part of autumn usually lands in late October, when average rainfall peaks near 56 mm over 31 days. Still, autumn isn’t London’s wettest season—winter usually takes that title.
Daylight Hours and Sunshine
Daylight drops off fast in autumn. In early September, you get about 13.5 hours of daylight, but by late November, it’s just over 8 hours. Sunsets shift from 7:45 pm in early September to 3:55 pm in late November—that’s a big change.
Sunshine becomes less reliable as clouds take over. You’ll see more clear skies in early September, but by November, overcast days are the norm.
Don’t forget, daylight saving time ends in late October, moving sunset an hour earlier. Suddenly, evenings feel much shorter, and you may want to rethink late outdoor plans.
What to Pack for Fall in London
Autumn in London is mild but unpredictable. You’ll want layers, shoes that can handle wet pavement, and a few things to keep you dry and warm without overpacking.
Essential Clothing for Autumn Weather
London’s fall weather swings between cool mornings, damp afternoons, and milder evenings. Layering is the best way to stay comfortable.
Pack light long-sleeve shirts and short-sleeve tops for layering under sweaters or cardigans. A medium-weight jacket usually does the trick, but a water-resistant coat is a lifesaver during rainy spells.
Bring 2–3 sweaters, preferably in wool or cotton blends. They add warmth without making your bag too heavy. A scarf is handy for both style and warmth, especially as October and November get colder.
Go for dark jeans or trousers that work for day or night. If you like variety, add some casual pants or leggings. A light dress or skirt with tights is a nice option if that’s your style.
Footwear and Accessories
London’s sidewalks can stay damp for hours after rain. Choose water-resistant shoes or ankle boots with decent grip. Skip suede unless you’re ready to waterproof it.
Bring comfortable walking shoes for long days out. If you’re heading to a nice dinner or the theatre, toss in a pair of dressier shoes.
Accessories matter. A compact umbrella is a must, but pick one that won’t flip inside out in the wind. By late autumn, gloves and a hat can make evenings much more pleasant.
A crossbody bag or small backpack keeps your hands free and your stuff safer on busy transport. Pick one with zippers for extra security.
Weather-Proofing Your Trip
Rain falls often in autumn, but it’s usually not heavy. A packable rain jacket or trench coat with a hood is more practical than lugging around a heavy coat. Waterproof layers dry fast and don’t take up much space.
Throw in quick-dry fabrics for shirts and socks. If you get caught in a shower, you’ll be glad your clothes dry overnight.
Keep a travel-sized umbrella in your day bag, even if the sky looks clear. Weather can change quickly. A lightweight scarf can give you extra warmth or shield you from a drizzle.
If you’re doing outdoor stuff like walking tours or park visits, stash a spare pair of socks in your bag. Wet feet can ruin your day, and swapping socks is a simple fix.
Seasonal Activities and Events
London in autumn offers a colorful mix of seasonal sights, cultural highlights, and both outdoor and indoor fun. Parks look their best, festivals pop up, and there’s plenty to do whether you want to stay cozy or explore outside.
Best Places to See Autumn Leaves
London’s big parks put on the best autumn show. Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens turn brilliant yellow and orange, while St. James’s Park gives you gorgeous views with Buckingham Palace in the background.
For a quieter stroll, check out Greenwich Park—the Thames framed by colorful trees is pretty special. Richmond Park is also a top pick, with red deer wandering among golden oaks and chestnuts.
If you like a more curated vibe, Kew Gardens is a must. The Japanese maples and arboretum areas really stand out in autumn.
For the brightest colors, aim for early to mid‑October, though the timing can shift a bit depending on the year’s weather.
BFI London Film Festival and Other Events
The BFI London Film Festival really stands out as one of the city’s big cultural moments every autumn. It usually runs in October and brings international films, documentaries, and premieres to several venues, like the Southbank Centre and Leicester Square cinemas.
You can catch public screenings, join panel talks, or dive into special events. Tickets sell out fast, so it’s smart to book early.
Other seasonal highlights? Bonfire Night pops up in early November with fireworks lighting up the city, and Thames Festival events sometimes carry over into autumn. Museums and galleries also roll out new exhibitions, so it’s honestly a strong season for culture lovers.
Markets like Borough Market bring in seasonal produce—think pumpkins, apples, and mulled drinks—which really adds to that autumn vibe.
Outdoor and Indoor Activities
With cooler weather, autumn feels perfect for walking tours. You can wander through historic neighborhoods like Westminster or Shoreditch without fighting summer crowds. As the days get shorter, evening ghost walks pick up in popularity.
If rain starts falling, you’ve got plenty of indoor choices. The British Museum, Tate Modern, and Natural History Museum all let you spend hours inside, safe from the weather.
Sports fans can grab tickets to Premier League football matches. Theatergoers can catch the West End, where new productions often debut in autumn.
If you want something a bit more laid-back, maybe try afternoon tea in a hotel lounge or duck into a traditional pub. Both give you a cozy break from the chilly air outside.
Travel Tips for Visiting London in Fall
When you plan a trip to London in fall, you’ll want to think about where you’ll stay, how you’ll get around in the cooler, wetter weather, and what little steps can make your visit smoother. Paying attention to these details really helps you enjoy autumn in London without too much stress.
Accommodation Recommendations
Hotels and rentals in London typically cost less in autumn than in summer or around Christmas. You can usually find good deals in central areas like Bloomsbury, South Bank, or Paddington, so you’re close to public transport and major sights.
If you’re after quieter surroundings, try neighborhoods like Greenwich or Hampstead. These spots offer some local charm, green spaces, and easy train or Tube rides into central London.
It’s still a good idea to book early, especially for weekends in September or late November—festivals and holiday events can drive up demand. Many hotels offer flexible cancellation, which is handy if your plans change.
For budget stays, check out chain hotels or serviced apartments with kitchens. That way, you can save money on meals and get a bit more comfort if you’re sticking around for a while.
Navigating the City During Autumn
London’s public transport system runs well all year, but fall weather can nudge your choices a bit. Rain showers happen often, so carrying a small umbrella and waterproof shoes makes walking between stations or sights a lot easier.
The London Underground (Tube) moves you across the city fastest. Buses might take longer, but you’ll get nice views of autumn leaves along routes past places like Hyde Park or Regent’s Park.
Shorter daylight hours in October and November mean you should plan outdoor sightseeing earlier in the day. By late afternoon, it’s probably already dark, so evening activities indoors—like theatre shows or museum visits—work best.
Using an Oyster card or contactless payment gets you the lowest fares without any fuss. Walking tours still feel great in September and early October, but layer up—temperatures can flip fast.
Local Insights and Practical Advice
Autumn in London can throw all sorts of weather at you, so it really helps to pack layers. I’d say a light sweater, a waterproof jacket, and some sturdy shoes will get you through most days.
Evenings get chilly, especially once November rolls around, so tossing in a warm scarf or hat isn’t a bad idea.
Markets like Borough Market or Camden Market stay lively during the fall, and honestly, they’re great spots to try whatever’s in season.
If you head to parks like Hampstead Heath or Greenwich Park, you’ll catch some gorgeous autumn colors. Just be ready for muddy paths after it rains.
You’ll notice the crowds thin out compared to summer, which makes sightseeing a lot more relaxed. Still, places like the Tower of London or the London Eye can draw lines, so I’d book tickets online to avoid waiting around.
Thinking about a day trip? Trains usually run on schedule in the fall, but I’d double-check times, since the daylight doesn’t last as long.
Keep a small umbrella handy, because London showers can show up out of nowhere and disappear just as quickly.