The United Kingdom can be visited all year round: the climate is mild, without great heat or extreme cold, but very changeable, so that in a single day you may see sun, rain and wind. The choice of season depends on what you want to do: cities and museums are fine at any time, while for nature, the Highlands and the coast the warmer months are best. For climate data see the climate of the UK.
Spring (March-May)
Spring is one of the loveliest seasons: parks and gardens burst into flower, with daffodils in March, bluebells in the woods in late April and wisteria on façades in May. The days lengthen quickly and prices are lower than in summer, except during the Easter holidays. In May the famous Chelsea Flower Show takes place in London. The weather is still cool and unsettled, but often drier than in autumn.
Summer (June-August)
This is high season: the days are very long, especially in the north, where in June the Scottish sky stays light until almost midnight, and the calendar is full of events: the Wimbledon tennis championships in late June and July, big music festivals such as Glastonbury, the Edinburgh Festival and the Notting Hill Carnival in August. Temperatures are pleasant, generally between 20 and 25 degrees, but in recent years heatwaves have become more frequent. It is also the most expensive and crowded period, especially during the British school holidays, from late July to early September. In Scotland, in summer, watch out for the biting midges.
Autumn (September-November)
September is often a splendid month, still mild and less crowded. In October the woods turn colour and cities return to the rhythm of cultural life, with the new season of theatre and concerts. November is the wettest month in many areas, but on 5 November Bonfire Night lights up the sky with fireworks across the country.
Winter (December-February)
Winter is grey and the days are short, but rarely very cold, except in the mountains and the north of Scotland. December is the month of Christmas markets, lights in the shopping streets and pantomimes in the theatres. In Edinburgh, New Year's Eve, Hogmanay, is one of the biggest parties in Europe. January and February are the cheapest months for flights and hotels, ideal for a city and museum break.
Holidays
Public holidays, called bank holidays, number eight in England and Wales, nine in Scotland and ten in Northern Ireland: they include Good Friday, Easter Monday, two Mondays in May and the last Monday in August, as well as Christmas Day and Boxing Day. On these days transport may be reduced and prices higher. If possible, avoid the British school holidays, when tourist destinations are busiest.
See also when to visit London, itineraries and travel tips.