London can be visited in any month of the year: it is never too hot or too cold, and many of its best attractions are indoors. Each season, however, has its own character, events and prices. Here is how to choose.
The climate
London's climate is temperate oceanic: cool but rarely freezing winters, mild summers, rain spread through the year. Let's bust a myth: in London it rains often, but not much. Annual rainfall is around 600 millimetres, less than in Rome or Naples; what characterises the city is grey skies and light drizzle rather than storms. Snow is rare. The weather changes quickly during the day, so dress in layers and always carry a folding umbrella or a waterproof jacket.
Spring (March-May)
One of the best times: days lengthen, parks fill with daffodils, magnolias and cherry blossom, temperatures rise to 18 degrees in May. In April the London Marathon and the Oxford-Cambridge Boat Race take place, in May the Chelsea Flower Show. Easter and half-term holidays push up prices for a few weeks.
Summer (June-August)
The liveliest and busiest season. Days are very long (in June it gets dark after 9.30pm), the city lives outdoors in parks, on terraces and at concerts, and there is Trooping the Colour, Wimbledon, the Proms and the Notting Hill Carnival. Temperatures are pleasant, averaging 23-24 degrees, but in recent years heatwaves have brought peaks above 30 degrees, and many buildings and public transport lack air conditioning. It is also the most expensive period for hotels.
Autumn (September-November)
September is often glorious, with mild days and fewer tourists after the holidays. October brings autumn colours to the parks, November Bonfire Night fireworks and the switching on of Christmas lights. It is a good season for museums, theatres and lower prices.
Winter (December-February)
It is cold and dark early (by 4pm in December), but the Christmas atmosphere is magical: lights on Oxford Street and Regent Street, markets, ice rinks, Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, Christmas concerts in churches. The sales start on 26 December. January and February are the quietest and cheapest months, ideal for museums and shows.
How many days you need
- 2 days: the great icons along the Thames and one museum.
- 3-4 days: the minimum for a full first visit, with museums, neighbourhoods and markets.
- 5-7 days: to discover the city at leisure and make one or two day trips.
See the suggested itineraries, the UK climate, when to visit the UK and the London guide.