Best time to visit London | A month-on-month guide
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Things to do in London London Travel Guide Best Time To Visit London
London, the multicultural hub of the United Kingdom, embodies a vibrant mosaic of diversity. Its essence is painted with hues from every corner of the globe, with a significant portion of its populace hailing from foreign lands, rendering it a genuine cosmopolitan center. Remarkably, amidst this cultural tapestry, London retains a profound reverence for its storied heritage.
For those seeking a captivating blend of cultural richness, picturesque landscapes, and quintessential English charm, London stands unparalleled. While the city offers enchantment throughout the year, discerning the optimal time to experience its allure is key. Consult our comprehensive guide and seize the perfect moment to explore London—you won't be disappointed!
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Know Before You Plan Your Trip to London
Best Time of the Year to Visit London
London is brimming with breathtaking sights that captivate visitors year-round. However, if forced to pick an optimal time, the period spanning from March to May emerges as particularly enchanting. During this window, spring blooms in its full splendor, adorning the parks of London with vibrant blossoms. As the chill of winter subsides, summer begins to beckon. While the city may be bustling with crowds, London offers abundant delights to cater to every taste.
Best Time To Visit London For Different Kinds Of Travellers
Best Time for Sightseeing & Outdoor Activities: Your prime opportunity hinges on the weather. London shines in early summer and late spring, offering ideal conditions for city exploration with lower chances of rainfall.
Best Time for Museum Buffs: April and May are the prime months, coinciding with the Museums at Night event. This special occasion sees many museums participating, transforming your museum visits into thrilling experiences.
Best Time for Honeymooners: London charms honeymooners during its shoulder seasons, from March to May and from September to October. During these periods, crowds are thinner, and the weather remains pleasant, making it ideal for romantic day trips.
Best Time for Budget Travellers: The low season is a boon for those mindful of their wallets. November and February offer discounted accommodations and flight rates, though some attractions may be closed, and weather can be chilly.
Best Time for Shopaholics: June and July are the prime months for shopaholics, with major sales events happening across the city. Additionally, December during the holiday season is another enticing period for shopping excursions in London.
London Through The Year
Tourist Seasons in London
- High season in London: High season in London is mainly during the summer months. This is the time when the locals try to make the best of the weather. Although the rain and humidity are unrelenting, there are a number of events going on in the city during this time, and the warmer weather encourages the visitors to keep pouring in.
- Shoulder season in London: Placed on either side of the high season, is the time when you can enjoy the city slightly less crowded, albeit in colder weather. The time from March to April, and from Mid-September to October features less rain as well. The shoulder season is for you if you want to take your time (and space) to explore London.
- Low season in London: British weather has a notorious reputation, and this is largely due to the winters. This is why November to February is the low season in London. If you are prepared to brave this weather to secure hotel and flight discounts, you may find a modest London waiting on your arrival. You will be able to enjoy most of London without any interference from the overload of visitors.
Best Season To Visit London
London in Spring
From March to May, London is adorned in the splendor of spring. The city reaches its peak sensory delight during this season. London's parks and gardens burst into vibrant bloom, creating an enchanting atmosphere perfect for leisurely strolls. With the tourist rush still at bay, spring offers a golden opportunity to savor the city's charms without the crowds. If you find yourself in London during this magical time, seize the moment and make the most of your visit.
London in Summer
From June to August, London experiences its summer season, though it's no longer the same as it once was. Previously known for its temperate weather interspersed with occasional showers, it's now prone to heat waves. Nevertheless, London retains its festive spirit throughout the summer months. Visiting the city during this time ensures an abundance of activities to keep you entertained.
London in Autumn
September marks the commencement of autumn in London, extending its embrace until mid-November. During this season, London's foliage is painted with a charming warmth. As temperatures cool, the bustling crowds gradually thin out. This period is cherished by Londoners, as it coincides with school holidays and the anticipation of Halloween festivities, making it a delightful time to experience the city's vibrant atmosphere.
London in Winter
London experiences winter from mid-November through February, bringing with it unforgiving weather conditions. Despite the chill, it's entirely possible to savor your visit during this season. With adept layering, you can discover the city in its purest form, devoid of crowds. The enchanting Christmas lights infuse London with a mystical atmosphere, complemented by enticing off-season sales for added allure.
Weather In London Year Round
TheWeather in London year round has been charted on a graph below. The Highs are depicted in blue and the Lows in orange.
A Month-By-Month Guide To Visiting London
Follow our detailed guide to pick a month for your London exploits.
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Dec
London In January
Average Temperature: 9°C to 4°C
January kicks off the second half of winter in London. It begins with frigid temperatures but tends to inch towards the realm of habitable as the month wears on. Consequently, the tourist crowd is not very fond of January. If you are the kind of person who would go to any length to avoid the crowd, this is the time for you. The city continues to celebrate after the new year’s parade with numerous pop-ups and workshops. Events like the London Short Film Festival and Hogwarts in Snow at Warner Bros Studios should keep you busy in January. If you are visiting London in January, be sure to pack enough warm clothes and look for deals on accommodation and flights.
London In February
Average Temperature: 9°C to 5°C
London’s weather keeps up its unpredictability in February. The temperature fluctuates but the rain is almost a constant presence in the entire month. With the holiday season well and truly over, tourist crowd dwindles further in February. You can enjoy pristine London in February. The city takes on a completely different avatar during Valentine’s Day, and it would be a great idea to take a romantic trip down the Thames with your partner. If fashion is where your heart lies, you may bear witness to the London Fashion Week in February. You will also see London’s cosmopolitan side during the Chinese New Year celebrations. If you are visiting London in February, you should ask around to find live music and cabaret shows to make the most of your time.
London In March
Average Temperature : 12°C to 6°C
London is finally able to sniff some semblance of warmth in March. There is a considerable increase in daylight hours. The rain is still prevalent, however. Some visitors start coming in and you should too because March provides you with the luxury of being far away from both the summer and the holiday season. You can enjoy the overwhelmingly popular attractions such as the Westminster Abbey and the Shard with relatively less crowd. March paints London in two very distinct colors on Mother’s Day and on St. Patrick’s Day. You have to witness both to understand the city’s soul. If you are visiting London in March, do not forget to check out the Battersea Spring Affordable Art Fair to pick up some souvenirs.
London In April
Average Temperature : 15°C to 7°C
April is the time of the year when London can truly believe that good weather exists. It is the beginning of Spring, and the gardens of the city begin rendering London a mottled appearance. April is also one of the rainiest months, but the visitors keep coming in anyway. If you are lucky to find a clear day, you should walk around and enjoy the parks of the city. Easter celebrations are usually quite vibrant in London with interactive activities going on all week. The London Marathon is another event that attracts global attention. You should also check out the Underbelly Festival that begins in April. The event celebrates performance arts. If you are heading to London in April, get your bookings confirmed in advance.
London In May
Average Temperature : 18°C to 10°C
If you are looking to find a balance between good weather and a moderate crowd, you will not find it any better than in May. Spring is in full swing and the weather may enable you to keep your scarves in your hotel rooms once in a while. London is at its vibrant best May. If you are in the city at this time, be sure to take a cruise on the Thames and see London from a fresh perspective. The city indulges in the weather with the RHS Chelsea Flower Show. For the artistically inclined, the Photo London and the London Craft Week are a must visit. It is also the month that sees the end of the wildly popular English Premier League. Remember to make online reservations before heading out anywhere in May.
Recommended Experiences in London during Spring
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Stonehenge Half-Day Tour from London
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£53
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Tower of London Tickets with Crown Jewels & Beefea...
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London Eye Standard Experience Tickets
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£28
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Windsor, Salisbury Cathedral, Stonehenge and Bath ...
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£65
London In June
Average Temperature : 21°C to 13°C
Summer officially begins in London in June. The temperature often reaches beyond the 20°C mark. This also means that hordes of tourists come storming through Heathrow. The rain doesn’t ever subside in London, so be prepared to encounter more showers. Summer is a great time to get all of your walking done. Take to the streets of London, which slowly begin to resemble that of a proper tourist destination, and absorb the cosmopolitan culture. The city witnesses an upturn in the number of music festivals in June. You must not miss out on the Taste of London food festival. There are a few art and craft exhibitions going on as well. You might want to steer clear of the rush hour traffic if you are in London in June.
London In July
Average Temperature : 22°C to 15°C
If you prefer your holidays to take place in pleasant weather, July is the time for you to be in London. Summer in London generally features a high of mid-20°C, that is perfect for outdoor activities and parties. No wonder why the crowd keeps piling on in July year after year. You may opt to visit one of London’s many famous landmarks, but be prepared to encounter a massive crowd. London in July forms the focal point of a number of events including Wimbledon. The cricket season begins during this time as well. The Underbelly Festival continues and many more music festivals make their appearance to add to the festive mood of the Londoners. If you are visiting London in July, keep your eyes out for the occasional heat wave.
London In August
Average Temperature : 22°C to 15°C
August is one of the two warmest months of the year in London. The summer is officially past its midpoint and is heading towards a close. The tourist crowd at this point is n the brink of spilling over despite the occasional rainy days. If you want a relatively peaceful tourism experience, you should consider heading out of London and take a day trip. Trips to the Cotswolds or Dover would be especially delightful. August is the best time to take children to London as there are many family-friendly events going on. You can witness the beginning of the Premier League season in August. London erupts during the Notting Hill Carnival, Europe’s largest street party, and this itself is a reason enough for you to visit London in August.
Recommended Experiences in London during Summer
Best Safety
Windsor Castle Half Day Tour from London
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£55
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Stonehenge and Bath Guided Day Trip From London
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£56
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Warner Bros. Studio Tour with Return Transfers
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£75.65
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Wimbledon Ground Guided Tour & Museum Tickets
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London In September
Average Temperature : 20°C to 13°C
There is a slight drop in the mercury spotted in September. Schools open in September which results in a downturn in tourist arrivals. September also marks the onset of Autumn in London. The slightly warmer tone in the foliage once again makes a walk in one of London’s gardens a delight. You can take advantage of the reduced crowd and head to one of the popular day trips from London, like Oxford or the Stonehenge. London celebrates the history of the Thames in September with the Totally Thames festival. Concerts and art exhibitions are hosted throughout the month centered around the river. The London Design Festival and the Japan Matsuri are also worth attending in September.
London In October
Average Temperature : 16°C to 10°C
London is taken over by Autumn colors in October. Tourist arrivals dwindle further, encouraging Londoners to kick back and relax for a bit. The weather in October is ideal for outdoor activities. London in October gives you a chance to obtain a decompressed tourism experience. You may pick a clear day and head to Richmond Park or Kew Garden to observe the interplay of rich autumnal hues. London also shows its multicultural side, hosting festivals like Diwali and Africa on the Square. For the gastronomist, London hosts the London co*cktail Week and London Restaurant Festival. October will also give you an exclusive look at the city’s celebration of Haloween.
Recommended Experiences in London during Autumn
London In November
Average Temperature : 12°C to 7°C
November sees the temperature take a plunge. Daylight hours begin going down dramatically and the overcast skies play their part to announce the arrival of winter. This is possibly the time of the year that encounters the least amount of tourists. If you want to enjoy your vacations without any distractions, London in November is for you. A pre-holiday lull overtakes London in November, but that doesn’t stop the locals from indulging in the Bonfire Night. Head to the London pubs on the weekends to enjoy hearty roasts. You can also enjoy the Regent Street Motor Show and the EFG London Jazz Festival in November. If time permits, you must check out the Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park.
London In December
Average Temperature : 9°C to 5°C
London experiences full-blown Winter in December. The mercury dives below the freezing point at times and snowfall is not uncommon. The daylight hours are in short supply, so London tries its best to use the twilight. Some section of tourists returns for the holiday season in December as London dresses up in pretty lights. Despite the weather, December has to be the most visually rewarding month to be in London. A London Eye ride on a clear evening can be the most memorable holiday experience for you. The holiday spirit also brings a few Christmas markets in London. Take some time to explore Hyde Park, Trafalgar Square, Kew Gardens, and other popular spots of the city to truly appreciate the festive season.
London 3-day Itinerary
Whether you're visiting London in May or November, here's a handy 3 day London itinerary to experiencing the best of London.
FAQs
When is the best time to visit London?
The best time to visit London is from April to June and September to October when the weather is mild and there are fewer crowds. However, keep in mind that prices for hotels and flights are generally higher during these months. If you're looking to save money, you can visit London from November to March when rates are typically lower. Just be prepared for colder weather and more rain.
What are the peak tourist seasons in London?
The peak tourist seasons in London are from April to June and September to October. These months have milder weather and fewer crowds, making them ideal times to visit. However, keep in mind that prices for hotels and flights are generally higher during these months.
What are the shoulder seasons in London?
The shoulder seasons in London are from March to April and October to November. These months have milder weather than the peak tourist season, but there may be more crowds and higher prices than during the off-season.
What is the off-season in London?
The off-season in London is from November to March. This is when prices for hotels and flights are typically lower, but you'll need to deal with colder weather and more rain.
What is the cheapest time of year to visit London?
The cheapest time of year to visit London is from November to March. This is when prices for hotels and flights are typically lower, but you'll need to deal with colder weather and more rain.
What time of year does London have the best weather?
The best time of year for weather in London is from April to June and September to October when the weather is mild and there are fewer crowds. However, keep in mind that prices for hotels and flights are generally higher during these months. If you're looking to save money, you can visit London from November to March when rates are typically lower.
Arfa Syeda
An introvert who expresses herself by the words that flow out as she writes. A Bangalorean by heart but has been across 22 countries by the age of 22. New York, Paris & Kashmir making it to her top 3 list of places that she has been to, she plans to go on a solo adventure in the near future. Her gypsy home is filled with souvenirs from across the world. She's always up to take her tastebuds on a food tour. As a world explorer, she has learnt that travelling helps her rejuvenate her soul by filling it up with memories and life lessons that no school ever taught.
