When you’re planning a trip to London, the weather is usually the biggest thing on your mind. If you want pleasant temperatures and long daylight hours, late spring through summer is your best bet. Parks burst into color, festivals pop up everywhere, and you get to wander the city’s famous sights without having to dodge endless rain or deal with those short, gray days.
Of course, London’s climate changes a lot from season to season. Cooler months mean lower prices and fewer tourists, while autumn brings crisp air and loads of cultural happenings.
Winter might feel damp and dark, but there’s a certain festive charm to it, plus some perks if you’re not a fan of crowds.
If you get a sense of how London’s weather shapes each season, you can pick the months that match your own priorities. Maybe you care most about comfort, saving money, or just soaking up the city’s vibe.
How London’s Weather Influences the Best Time to Visit
London’s climate stays mild compared to a lot of Europe, but it definitely feels damp and a bit unpredictable. Rain falls pretty evenly all year, temperatures don’t swing wildly, and daylight hours can really stretch or shrink depending on the time of year.
All of that shapes when you might want to book your trip.
Typical London Weather Patterns
London has a temperate maritime climate, so winters stay cool and summers are mild, not hot. You probably won’t see much snow, but you’ll get plenty of drizzle and cloudy days.
Rain comes in small amounts on lots of days—not big storms. That’s why people here always seem to have an umbrella handy.
You’ll usually get about 8–12 rainy days each month, with January being the soggiest.
Humidity sits in the moderate range, which makes the cold months feel damper and the warm months a little less sticky. Since the weather rarely gets too extreme, you can visit London almost any time, but your comfort really depends on how you feel about gray skies and light rain.
Temperature and Rainfall by Season
Winter (Dec–Feb): Highs hit about 46–48°F (8–9°C), and lows drop near 40°F (4–5°C). Expect lots of rain and short, gloomy days.
Spring (Mar–May): Temperatures climb from 50°F (10°C) in March up to 64°F (18°C) in May. Rain is moderate, but parks and gardens start to bloom, so it’s a great time to visit if you love scenery.
Summer (Jun–Aug): Highs reach 70–73°F (21–23°C), and lows hover around 59°F (15°C). Rain falls on fewer days, and you’ll get more sunshine. This is when everyone wants to visit, so expect higher prices and bigger crowds.
Autumn (Sep–Nov): Highs drop from 66°F (19°C) in September down to 48°F (9°C) by November. Rain picks up again, and evenings turn chilly fast.
| Season | Avg High | Avg Low | Rainy Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Winter | 46–48°F | 40°F | 10–12 |
| Spring | 50–64°F | 41–50°F | 8–9 |
| Summer | 70–73°F | 59°F | 7–8 |
| Autumn | 66–48°F | 55–42°F | 9–11 |
Daylight Hours Throughout the Year
Daylight in London can really swing from one season to the next. In winter, the sun sets as early as 4:00 pm, so there’s not much time for outdoor activities. The city feels darker and colder than the numbers might suggest.
But in summer, you get those long, golden days—sometimes up to 16 hours of daylight. You can wander parks, check out landmarks, or hit a market well into the evening. That extra light is a big reason so many people pick summer for their London trip.
Spring and autumn fall somewhere in the middle, with 10–14 hours of daylight. These seasons give you a nice balance: plenty of time to see the sights, but fewer crowds than summer. If you prefer things a bit quieter but still want enough daylight for exploring, these could be your best months.
Spring in London: Mild Weather and Blooming Parks
Spring in London greets you with mild temperatures, longer days, and smaller crowds than in summer. You’ll find blooming gardens, seasonal events, and great weather for strolling through historic streets and green spaces.
Weather Conditions in Spring
Spring lasts from March to May. Temperatures climb steadily: 12°C (54°F) in March, 15°C (59°F) in April, and 18°C (64°F) in May. Nights still get chilly, so bring layers.
Rain happens often, about 8–9 days per month, but showers usually don’t last all day. A light waterproof jacket and a small umbrella can make life easier when you’re out and about.
You’ll notice daylight stretching fast. Early March sunsets come before 6 pm, but by late May, the sun doesn’t set until after 9 pm. That means more time outside. British Summer Time starts in late March, so clocks jump forward and you get even longer evenings.
Spring weather is a bit of a wildcard in London. You might get a sunny afternoon, then a sudden shower. Pack flexible clothes and you’ll be fine.
Best Spring Events and Activities
Spring brings a bunch of fun events. In March, you can catch the St. Patrick’s Day Parade winding through the city center.
April usually means Easter celebrations, but some places close on public holidays, so it’s worth checking ahead.
By May, the Chelsea Flower Show is the big draw. It’s famous for its garden displays, and tickets go fast, so book early if you’re interested.
You can also hop on a Thames river cruise to Greenwich for cool views of the city. As the weather warms, locals love to hang out in a riverside beer garden.
The Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre starts its season in late spring. If you’re into theater, it’s a unique way to enjoy a show and soak up the evening air.
Top Parks and Gardens to Visit
London’s parks really shine in spring. Hyde Park is perfect for walking, cycling, or even renting a rowboat on the Serpentine. Regent’s Park has beautiful gardens and sits right by the London Zoo.
If you love plants, Kew Gardens is a must. Spring brings cherry blossoms, magnolias, and carpets of bluebells. Plus, the glasshouses give you a break if it rains.
Greenwich Park offers big lawns and sweeping views of the Thames and city skyline. It’s one of the oldest royal parks and tends to be quieter than the central ones.
If you’re around in late May, the Chelsea Flower Show is a treat. Even if you miss it, smaller community gardens and neighborhood squares are full of spring color.
London’s green spaces let you breathe, spot some wildlife, and see the city in a softer light. Each park has its own vibe, so try to visit a few if you can.
Summer in London: Festivals, Sunshine, and Crowds
Summer in London means long days, mild to warm weather, and a jam-packed schedule of events. You’ll find outdoor activities in every park, parades full of color, and street festivals that spill into the evening. But just so you know, prices go up and the crowds get big at top attractions.
Weather and Daylight in Summer
From June to August, highs usually land between 59°F and 73°F (15°C–23°C), with cooler nights, so a light jacket comes in handy. Rain still shows up, but showers are short and you’ll only see about 7–8 rainy days a month.
Daylight sticks around late. In June, the sun might not set until after 9 pm, so you get up to 16 hours of daylight. That’s plenty of time for sightseeing, outdoor meals, or evening walks along the Thames.
Parks like Hyde Park and Regent’s Park fill up with picnickers, open-air concerts, and people boating on the Serpentine. The riverside near the London Eye and South Bank buzzes from morning till night.
Major Summer Events and Festivals
Cultural events take over in summer. In June, you can catch Trooping the Colour at Buckingham Palace—a big military parade for the monarch’s birthday. Crowds gather along The Mall to watch.
July and August are all about music and celebration. The BBC Proms at the Royal Albert Hall brings daily classical concerts, while London Pride turns Oxford Street and Regent Street into a parade route.
The Notting Hill Carnival in late August is a highlight—think steel bands, wild costumes, and dancing in the streets. Food stalls serve up jerk chicken, curries, and all sorts of Caribbean eats.
Markets are at their busiest. Camden Market, Borough Market, and Covent Garden overflow with food, crafts, and street performers, especially on weekends.
Tips for Visiting Popular Attractions
Since summer is peak season, you’ll hit long lines at places like the London Eye, Tower of London, and Buckingham Palace. Booking ahead saves you from waiting around.
If you want to shop on Oxford Street or Regent Street, go early before things get hectic. For markets like Borough Market, weekdays are much calmer than weekends.
Make the most of those long evenings. Head to Hyde Park later in the day when it’s cooler. For museums or galleries, visit during midday when outdoor lines are at their longest.
Public transport gets packed during big events. Sometimes it’s just easier—and more fun—to walk between nearby spots like Covent Garden and Camden Market instead of squeezing onto the Tube.
Autumn in London: Crisp Air and Cultural Highlights
Autumn in London brings cooler temperatures, shorter days, and a city calendar full of cultural events. Parks and gardens turn bold shades of red, orange, and gold, making it a great season for sightseeing and long walks.
Weather Changes in Autumn
Autumn is when London shifts from mild to chilly. In September, afternoons can hit 20°C (68°F), but by November, highs drop closer to 12°C (54°F). Evenings fall to 7°C (45°F), so pack layers.
Rain is steady, with 8–10 wet days per month, often coming in clusters. Bring a compact umbrella or light waterproof jacket to stay comfortable while exploring.
Daylight disappears fast. In September, sunsets are around 7:45 pm, but by late November, it’s dark by 3:55 pm. You’ll find yourself out after dark more often, so maybe plan some indoor activities or enjoy London’s nightlife.
Key Autumn Events
London’s fall calendar is packed. September has the Totally Thames Festival, which celebrates the river with art, music, and boat parades. Around the same time, Open House London lets you peek inside buildings that aren’t usually open to the public.
October brings the BFI London Film Festival, with international films and screenings across the city. Art fans flock to Frieze London in Regent’s Park, one of the top contemporary art fairs.
In November, traditions take over. Guy Fawkes Night on the 5th lights up the sky with fireworks everywhere. Soon after, the Lord Mayor’s Show brings a parade, pageantry, and more fireworks to celebrate the new Lord Mayor.
These events mix history, culture, and entertainment, making autumn a lively time to visit.
Best Places for Autumn Foliage
London’s parks and gardens really come alive with autumn colors. You’ll spot horse chestnuts, maples, and oaks turning golden in Hyde Park, Regent’s Park, St. James’s Park, and Green Park—all right in the center of the city.
If you want more space to roam, head to Richmond Park. Deer wander through wide open fields, making the autumn leaves feel even more magical.
Greenwich Park offers incredible city views, and the trees there put on a colorful show in the fall.
If you’re after a more curated experience, you should check out Kew Gardens. The place is packed with trees and plants from around the world, so photographers will have a field day with all those autumn shades.
Quieter spots like Kynance Mews or Notting Hill make for lovely, picturesque walks this time of year.
Winter in London: Festivities and Off-Peak Advantages
Winter in London means chilly, short days, but there’s a bright side. The city bursts with festive celebrations, and you’ll notice fewer tourists and lower travel costs.
You can dive into seasonal events, explore top-notch indoor attractions, and wander quieter streets than you’d find in the busy summer months.
Typical Winter Weather
London winters feel cool and damp. Daytime highs usually sit around 7°C to 9°C (45°F to 48°F), and at night, it drops to about 2°C to 4°C (36°F to 39°F).
Snow hardly ever sticks, but you’ll run into light frosts and some biting winds. Rain is pretty common, so pack waterproof shoes and maybe a small umbrella.
Daylight is in short supply, with the sun setting before 4:30 p.m. in December. Sightseeing can feel a bit rushed, but those long evenings are perfect for indoor fun and taking in the city’s festive lights.
Definitely bring layers. A warm coat, scarf, gloves, and something waterproof will keep you comfortable whether you’re walking along the Thames or catching a show in the West End.
Seasonal Events and Celebrations
London really goes all out for the holidays. Christmas in London lights up Regent Street, Oxford Street, and Covent Garden. Major spots like the Natural History Museum set up popular ice rinks, and Christmas at Kew turns the gardens into a glowing wonderland.
The markets at Southbank Centre and Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland serve up food, crafts, and entertainment. December gets busy, so it’s smart to book tickets and hotels early.
When New Year rolls around, the London New Year’s Day Parade takes over the streets with floats, bands, and performers. Crowds gather for fireworks by the Thames, but you could also catch the show from The Shard or another high-rise if you want to avoid the thickest crowds.
Indoor Attractions and Activities
When it’s cold, indoor spots become extra appealing. London’s museums are first-rate—think Victoria and Albert Museum, Natural History Museum, and the British Museum. Most don’t charge for entry, which is great if you’re watching your budget.
You can also treat yourself to traditional afternoon tea at London hotels, or wander indoor markets like Borough Market for seasonal bites and mulled wine.
Theater lovers are in luck. The West End offers musicals, plays, and festive performances—a cozy way to spend a winter evening. If you’d rather see the city from above without freezing, head to the viewing platforms at The Shard for sweeping views.
Comparing Seasons: Pros and Cons for Travelers
London’s weather changes a lot throughout the year. Each season comes with its own perks and drawbacks, so it’s worth thinking about what matters most to you—weather, prices, or crowds—before you pick your travel dates.
Best Months for Pleasant Weather
Late spring and summer, especially May to August, usually bring the mildest and most reliable weather. Highs range from the upper 50s °F in May to the low 70s °F in August.
Rain can still happen, but you’ll probably see fewer wet days than in winter.
You get long daylight hours—sometimes over 15 hours in midsummer—which means more time to explore. Parks and gardens bloom, and outdoor events like the Chelsea Flower Show and Notting Hill Carnival liven things up.
The downside? It gets pricey. Central London hotels, especially the fancy ones, bump up their rates in June and July. If you want the best combination of good weather and reasonable prices, May and early June usually hit the sweet spot.
Cheapest Time to Visit London
If you’re looking to save, January through March is the cheapest time to visit. Hotel prices drop a lot, and even 5-star places can cost hundreds less per night than in summer. Flights often follow suit.
You’ll have to deal with the weather, though. Daylight is short—sunset comes as early as 4:00 p.m. in January. Highs hover in the upper 40s °F, and January is usually the wettest month.
You’ll want to stick to indoor attractions like museums, theaters, and galleries.
Events are a bit sparse, but you can still catch the New Year’s Day Parade or Chinese New Year celebrations. If you don’t mind the cold and damp, your money goes furthest during these months.
Busiest and Quietest Periods
Tourist numbers really spike in July and August. Families on school break and travelers chasing the sun fill up major attractions, so you’ll probably face longer queues and steeper prices.
If you’re planning a summer trip, you’ll want to book hotels and tickets well ahead of time. It’s not the best moment for last-minute plans.
The least busy period runs from October to early December. You’ll find fewer visitors, and that means shorter lines at places like the Tower of London or Westminster Abbey.
The weather? It’s usually cool and rainy, with about 10–12 wet days each month. Not exactly ideal, but some folks don’t mind the drizzle.
Even in this quieter season, you can catch cultural events like the London Film Festival or wander through early Christmas markets. Hotel prices might not fall as much as you’d hope, but the slower pace and easier access to big sights make up for it, at least in my opinion.