London Weather

London has a temperate maritime climate: temperatures are moderated by the surrounding seas, while cloud, wind and showers can arrive in any season. The city does not simply rain all day every day. Conditions vary, so use the Met Office forecast close to departure and pack for changeable weather.

Spring in London

March through May brings lengthening days and gradually milder conditions, though early spring can feel cold and wet. Parks and gardens become more colorful, and walking becomes pleasant on brighter days. Bring a light waterproof layer, comfortable shoes and an extra layer for evenings.

Summer in London

June through August usually offers the longest daylight and many outdoor events. Warm or occasionally hot spells can make crowded Tube platforms and older buildings uncomfortable; shade, water and breaks help. Rain showers remain possible. Book popular timed attractions and theatre performances ahead when dates matter.

Autumn in London

September and October often begin mild before cooler, wetter and windier weather develops. Daylight shortens through the season. Parks, galleries and indoor attractions balance outdoor walks, while a compact umbrella or waterproof jacket is useful.

Winter in London

November through February is generally cool, damp and relatively dark. Frost can occur, but persistent snow in central London is uncommon. Seasonal lights and indoor culture can make winter rewarding, while early sunsets mean outdoor sightseeing should start earlier in the day. Check for service disruption during severe weather.

Rain, daylight and packing

Rainfall can be light and intermittent or heavier during passing fronts. A hooded waterproof layer is often more practical than a large umbrella in wind and crowds. Wear shoes suitable for wet pavement. In summer, daylight lasts late; in winter, plan parks and viewpoints around shorter afternoons. Heatwaves and cold snaps are possible, so check the forecast for the exact dates rather than relying only on monthly averages.

Best time to visit London

• May, June or September for a walking-led visit: a useful starting choice when your priority is parks and riverside routes. This is an editorial preference; event dates, prices and the forecast may change your decision.
• Summer for long outdoor days: leave exposed walks flexible during heat and make sure the room's cooling arrangements suit you.
• Winter for museums and theatre: place the outdoor photograph or park stop earlier in the day, then use the afternoon for an indoor booking. Shorter daylight limits a long sequence of outdoor stops.
• An event-led trip: use the organiser's date first, then plan clothing and an indoor alternative for that season.

Weather and day trips

Coastal, countryside and heritage excursions can be more exposed to wind and rain than central London. Check the forecast for the destination as well as the city, and leave flexibility for outdoor sites such as Stonehenge or the South Downs. Explore options in Day Trips From London.

For activities suited to different conditions, see things to do in London. For practical clothing, transport and health notes, read London Travel Tips and the London Travel Guide.

Climate descriptions are broad seasonal guidance. Consult the Met Office London forecast before travel.

Heat and cold

Some older buildings and Underground platforms can retain heat during a warm spell. Carry water, use shaded parks and avoid overloading a day with enclosed queues. In winter, damp air and wind can make moderate temperatures feel colder than expected; a warm outer layer and dry shoes make a large difference. Weather alerts and public transport disruption are best checked on the day.

Rain does not have to cancel a day

• South Bank: reduce the riverside distance and choose Tate Modern rather than transferring to a museum across town.
• South Kensington: select one collection at the V&A, Natural History Museum or Science Museum; large museums are full visits, not quick shelter stops.
• West End: pair the National Gallery with a nearby meal or performance. Reserve any fixed activity before committing to the day.

Choose the alternative in the same district. In high winds or severe weather, follow the venue and transport operator's notices rather than assuming an indoor attraction remains accessible.

Forecasts and climate averages

The table uses Met Office Heathrow station averages for 1991–2020, rounded to one decimal place. Heathrow is a west London reference station, not a measurement of every neighbourhood. Average daily highs and lows describe the climate; they are not the expected temperature on your travel date.

Rain occurs in every season. Summer averages do not rule out heatwaves, and winter averages do not rule out frost. Use the Met Office forecast for your actual outdoor plans.

Light and photography

For river architecture, compare Westminster Bridge and the South Bank in the morning with Tower Bridge later in the day only if your itinerary already reaches that area. Cloud can give façades more even light; clearing weather can add reflections on wet paving, but slippery surfaces need care. In winter, choose one outdoor photo walk before the museum visit instead of leaving it until after closing time. The London Eye twilight photograph in the main guide shows one possible evening setting, not a promise of matching light.

Check conditions for the actual day

Before a long walking day, look at rain probability, wind, temperature and any weather warnings rather than relying on a single high-temperature number. A light shower may not affect your plan, while persistent rain changes the comfort of open-air sites. If you have tickets for an outdoor experience, save the operator’s contact details and know whether you can reschedule.

Research and update: Photos4Travel planning guide, updated 30 September 2026. Official visitor, venue and transport sources are linked where relevant. Suggested routes and visit allowances are editorial planning examples; live schedules, menus and access conditions come from the linked providers.