Best Time to Visit London: Weather, Events & Budget Travel Months (Month-by-Month Guide)

London is a city that feels alive in every season, with a character that changes month by month. The best time to visit London depends on whether you want crisp winter mornings with festive lights, spring blossoms filling royal parks, or warm summer days when open-air concerts and rooftop bars come alive.

Each month offers something different, from world-famous events and seasonal markets to local traditions that give travellers a deeper sense of the city’s rhythm.

Winter in London means mulled wine at Christmas markets, ice-skating rinks in historic squares, and cosy pubs glowing with candlelight. Spring brings daffodils, cherry blossoms, and longer days that invite you to wander along the Thames or picnic in Hyde Park.

Summer offers outdoor festivals, theatre in Regent’s Park, and boat rides under endless skies, while autumn wraps the city in golden leaves, art fairs, and comforting seasonal dishes. Travelling month by month helps you find the London that suits your mood and budget, whether that means fewer crowds, seasonal food, or headline events.

With its blend of history, culture, and energy, London ensures that every visit feels unique. No matter when you arrive, the city greets you with charm, variety, and moments that stay with you long after you leave.

London in January: Weather, Crowds and Costs

January in London feels calm after the excitement of Christmas and New Year, with streets quieter and hotels offering lower rates. The weather is cold, with temperatures between 3 and 8 degrees Celsius, and fog often lingers in the mornings, giving the city a mysterious atmosphere.

Frost dusts the edges of Hyde Park, while the Thames reflects the soft light of short winter days. Crowds are thinner at museums and galleries, making it easier to enjoy treasures in the British Museum or the National Gallery. Shoppers find bargains during the January sales, as department stores and boutiques slash prices after the festive rush.

Cultural life carries on despite the chill. The London International Mime Festival brings creativity to theatres, while the New Year’s Day Parade fills central streets with colour, music, and energy. Comfort food takes centre stage in January, with steaming bowls of pie and mash or hearty roasts warming visitors in traditional pubs.

Cafés hum with the scent of coffee and pastries as Londoners escape the cold. Ice-skating rinks remain open early in the month, offering one last chance to glide under the winter sky before they close. The slower pace makes it a month for travellers who enjoy a quieter side of the city.

FAQs about January in London

Is January a good month to visit London?

Yes, January is a good month for budget-conscious travellers. Hotel rates drop after the holidays, and sales make shopping more affordable. Crowds are smaller in museums and attractions. It is an ideal time for culture and indoor sightseeing.

What is the weather like in London in January?

London in January is cold, with temperatures between 3 and 8 degrees Celsius. Fog and rain are common, and daylight hours are short. Frost occasionally appears in the parks. Warm clothing and umbrellas are essential.

Are there events in London in January?

Yes, the New Year’s Day Parade and the London International Mime Festival are highlights. Ice-skating rinks are open at the start of the month. Theatres and concert halls also continue with packed programmes. Even in winter, London’s cultural calendar is lively.

Is January cheaper for travel to London?

Yes, January is one of the cheapest months for flights and hotels. Post-Christmas sales also make shopping more affordable. Restaurants and pubs often offer winter deals. It is a good month for budget travellers.

London in February: Weather, Crowds and Costs

February in London carries both a chill in the air and a warmth in spirit, with Valentine’s Day adding romance to the city. Temperatures range from 3 to 9 degrees Celsius, and mornings are often misty, with the Thames shrouded in silver light.

Cafés glow invitingly on cold afternoons, filled with the scent of hot chocolate and freshly baked scones. Couples stroll through Covent Garden under twinkling fairy lights, while ice remains on fountains in Trafalgar Square. The weather is unpredictable, with crisp sunny days followed by sudden rain showers.

The cultural calendar thrives in February. The London Fashion Week brings glamour and energy, filling the city with models, designers, and journalists. The Chinese New Year Parade in Soho and Chinatown bursts with colour, dragon dances, and fireworks, celebrating London’s diverse community.

Theatres run Valentine’s specials, while jazz clubs offer candlelit evenings with soulful music. Comfort food remains a highlight, with hearty stews, fish and chips, and sticky toffee pudding served in warm pubs. Pancake Day, or Shrove Tuesday, is celebrated with races and feasts across the city.

FAQs about February in London

Is February a good time to visit London?

Yes, February is excellent for travellers seeking culture and romance. Events like Fashion Week and Chinese New Year add colour to the month. Valentine’s Day makes the city especially atmospheric. Crowds are lighter than in spring or summer.

What is the weather like in London in February?

February remains cold, with temperatures between 3 and 9 degrees Celsius. Rain is common, and some mornings are frosty. Sunny days are possible but unpredictable. Layers and waterproof clothing are recommended.

Are there festivals in London in February?

Yes, Chinese New Year and London Fashion Week are key highlights. Pancake Day adds a playful tradition with races and feasts. Theatres and music venues also host seasonal performances. The city feels vibrant despite the cold.

Is February busy in London?

No, February has manageable crowds compared to later months. Attractions are easier to enjoy without queues. Hotels are more affordable than in peak season. It is a pleasant time for travellers who prefer calm exploration.

London in March: Weather, Crowds and Costs

March signals the start of spring in London, though winter lingers in the background. Temperatures climb to 5–12 degrees Celsius, and daylight stretches longer, brightening the city after months of grey. Parks begin to awaken, with daffodils blooming in Green Park and St James’s Park, filling lawns with yellow and white.

Cherry blossoms open in Greenwich Park and Kew Gardens, creating picturesque walks beneath soft pink petals. Rain showers are common, but sunshine often follows quickly, creating vibrant rainbows over the Thames.

Events in March reflect both tradition and culture. St Patrick’s Day is celebrated with a lively parade through central London, filled with Irish music, dance, and food stalls. The Head of the River Race on the Thames brings rowing teams and cheering crowds to the riverside.

Theatres prepare for spring openings, and museums launch new exhibitions. Food markets highlight seasonal produce like leeks, early greens, and rhubarb, alongside comforting pies and pastries. Cafés start to serve lighter menus as the weather improves.

FAQs about March in London

Is March a good month to visit London?

Yes, March is excellent for travellers who enjoy blossoms and cultural events. St Patrick’s Day and the Head of the River Race add lively traditions. Parks bloom with daffodils and cherry blossoms. The weather is cool but improving.

What is the weather like in London in March?

March is mild, with temperatures between 5 and 12 degrees Celsius. Rain showers are frequent but often brief. Sunshine increases compared to winter. Light layers and an umbrella are practical.

Are there events in London in March?

Yes, St Patrick’s Day and the Head of the River Race are major highlights. Theatres and museums launch spring seasons. Markets brim with seasonal produce. March feels both cultural and festive.

Is March crowded in London?

March sees more visitors than January or February, but it is not as busy as summer. Parks and landmarks are popular during sunny weekends. Attractions remain comfortable to explore. It is a balanced month for sightseeing.

London in April: Weather, Crowds and Costs

April in London feels alive with colour, as parks and gardens burst into full bloom. Temperatures rise to between 7 and 15 degrees Celsius, with longer days that invite outdoor exploration.

Cherry blossoms paint avenues pink, while tulips brighten beds in Regent’s Park and Kew Gardens. Hyde Park fills with walkers, cyclists, and families enjoying the warmer air, even if April showers sometimes send them running for shelter. The city’s energy softens, carrying the freshness of spring mixed with the bustle of everyday life.

Easter is celebrated across London in April, bringing parades, church services, and egg hunts in the city’s green spaces. Trafalgar Square often hosts open-air performances, while Borough Market and Covent Garden showcase seasonal food.

Hot cross buns appear in bakeries, spiced with cinnamon and dotted with fruit, while pubs serve lamb roasts with mint sauce to mark the holiday.

The London Marathon also takes place this month, filling the streets with cheering crowds and runners from around the world. The combination of blossoms, traditions, and community events makes April rich in atmosphere.

FAQs about April in London

What is the weather like in London in April?

April is mild, with highs between 7 and 15 degrees Celsius. Rain showers are common but often brief, followed by sunshine. Flowers bloom across the city, making it very scenic. A mix of layers and a waterproof jacket is best.

Are there events in London in April?

Yes, Easter celebrations and the London Marathon are major highlights. Trafalgar Square often hosts cultural performances. Parks and gardens come alive with spring festivals. April is one of the most atmospheric months to visit.

Is April busy in London?

Yes, April brings larger crowds due to spring holidays. Attractions are livelier, especially during Easter weekend. However, the festive spirit adds to the appeal. Early booking is helpful for hotels and tickets.

What foods are seasonal in April in London?

Hot cross buns are traditional during Easter, along with lamb dishes. Markets feature spring vegetables such as asparagus and rhubarb. Cafés serve lighter, fresher menus. Seasonal food reflects both heritage and spring produce.

London in May: Weather, Crowds and Costs

May in London feels like the true arrival of summer, with mild warmth and sunshine spilling across the city. Temperatures range from 10 to 18 degrees Celsius, and daylight stretches well into the evening. Parks are lush and green, with roses beginning to bloom and locals lounging on deckchairs in Hyde Park.

The air carries the scent of lilac and freshly cut grass, while pavements are lined with café tables buzzing with chatter. The Thames glitters under the sun, inviting long walks along the riverbanks.

Events in May bring grandeur and festivity. The RHS Chelsea Flower Show fills exhibition grounds with extraordinary floral displays, drawing gardeners and visitors from across the world. May also marks royal occasions, with Trooping the Colour rehearsals preparing for the King’s official birthday.

Bank holidays bookend the month, bringing street parties, festivals, and outdoor concerts. Food markets brim with strawberries, peas, and asparagus, turning seasonal produce into vibrant dishes. Street performers fill Covent Garden with music and laughter, adding a theatrical energy to spring.

FAQs about May in London

What is the weather like in London in May?

May is mild and pleasant, with highs between 10 and 18 degrees Celsius. Sunshine is more consistent, and rain showers are lighter. Parks and gardens are lush with spring growth. The weather is ideal for sightseeing outdoors.

What events happen in London in May?

The Chelsea Flower Show is a highlight, along with Trooping the Colour rehearsals. Bank holidays bring outdoor festivals and street parties. Cultural events fill theatres and squares. May offers both tradition and celebration.

Is May a good time to visit London?

Yes, May is excellent for gardens, events, and mild weather. Crowds are higher but manageable. The longer daylight hours make it easy to explore. It is one of the most photogenic months in London.

What foods are seasonal in London in May?

Strawberries, peas, and asparagus dominate markets in May. Seasonal dishes highlight fresh produce. Pubs and restaurants serve lighter menus. Food reflects the vibrancy of late spring.

London in June: Weather, Crowds and Costs

June ushers in the start of summer in London, with long days and warm temperatures between 13 and 21 degrees Celsius. Sunshine is frequent, and evenings stretch late, making it easy to pack full days of sightseeing.

Parks host picnics, open-air yoga, and performances, while roses bloom magnificently in Regent’s Park and Hampton Court Palace. Locals enjoy the city’s riverside walks, while tourists gather at landmarks bathed in golden light. The air feels light, with street musicians playing along the South Bank as boats glide by.

Cultural life thrives in June. The Trooping the Colour ceremony officially marks the King’s birthday, complete with military parades and royal pageantry. The West End Live festival in Trafalgar Square showcases musicals in free outdoor performances.

Pride Month begins, filling streets with rainbow flags, marches, and music that celebrate diversity. Wimbledon preparations create a buzz, even before the tournament officially begins in early July. Food markets brim with cherries, raspberries, and summer salads, while pubs spill over with people enjoying a pint in the evening sun.

FAQs about June in London

What is the weather like in London in June?

June is warm and pleasant, with highs between 13 and 21 degrees Celsius. Sunshine is frequent, and evenings are long. Occasional rain showers can occur. It is excellent weather for outdoor sightseeing.

What events happen in London in June?

Trooping the Colour and West End Live are highlights. Pride Month fills the city with parades and concerts. Wimbledon excitement begins to build. Festivals, theatre, and music thrive throughout the month.

Is June crowded in London?

Yes, June attracts many tourists as summer begins. Parks, landmarks, and events are lively. Booking hotels and tickets early is wise. The festive atmosphere makes the crowds enjoyable.

What foods are seasonal in June in London?

Cherries, raspberries, and summer vegetables are in season. Pubs and restaurants feature fresh salads and lighter dishes. Outdoor dining thrives across the city. Seasonal flavours reflect summer abundance.

London in July: Weather, Crowds and Costs

July in London is the height of summer, with warm temperatures between 15 and 24 degrees Celsius and long days that seem to stretch endlessly. The parks are alive with picnics, open-air theatre, and families lounging under leafy shade.

Hyde Park hosts concerts, while Regent’s Park fills with laughter as Shakespeare is performed in its outdoor theatre. The streets buzz with festivals, food markets, and music drifting from pubs and terraces. The warm air carries the scent of roses and barbecues, while the Thames glitters beneath bright blue skies.

Cultural life is rich in July. The Proms begin at the Royal Albert Hall, filling weeks with orchestral music that attracts audiences from across the world. Pride in London reaches its peak, with parades, performances, and rainbow colours transforming the city.

Wimbledon also continues, with strawberries and cream becoming a staple in cafés and restaurants. Street food festivals thrive, offering everything from spicy curries to gourmet burgers. Evening light lingers, keeping the city awake well into the night.

FAQs about July in London

What is the weather like in London in July?

July is warm and sunny, with highs between 15 and 24 degrees Celsius. Rain is possible but less frequent than in spring. Evenings are mild and inviting. It is the peak of London’s summer season.

What events happen in London in July?

The Proms, Pride in London, and Wimbledon are major highlights. Parks host concerts and theatre performances. Food and street festivals thrive. July is one of the busiest cultural months.

Is July crowded in London?

Yes, July is very busy with international tourists and locals enjoying the summer. Attractions and parks are full of energy. Booking tickets and hotels early is essential. The lively atmosphere is part of the experience.

What foods are seasonal in London in July?

Strawberries, raspberries, and fresh salads are popular. Wimbledon inspires menus featuring strawberries and cream. Street food markets highlight global flavours. Seasonal produce is light, sweet, and refreshing.

London in August: Weather, Crowds and Costs

August in London carries the warmth of high summer, with temperatures between 15 and 23 degrees Celsius. The city feels alive with visitors, as schools are on holiday and festivals fill the calendar.

Parks are green and inviting, with locals sunbathing, reading, and enjoying ice cream beneath shady trees. The air hums with buskers playing on South Bank, while boats glide steadily along the Thames. Evenings remain light, creating the perfect backdrop for outdoor dining and rooftop cocktails.

Events dominate August. The Notting Hill Carnival takes over west London, with Caribbean music, food, and costumes bringing one of the world’s biggest street parties. The Proms continue to draw music lovers, culminating in September’s famous Last Night of the Proms.

Open-air cinemas pop up across the city, projecting films against summer skies. Street markets brim with peaches, plums, and courgettes, while food festivals showcase global cuisine. The blend of heritage and modern culture makes August vibrant and memorable.

FAQs about August in London

What is the weather like in London in August?

August is warm, with highs between 15 and 23 degrees Celsius. Sunshine is common, though showers may appear. Evenings are mild and perfect for outdoor events. It is one of London’s most enjoyable summer months.

What events happen in London in August?

The Notting Hill Carnival is the highlight, filling streets with music, dancing, and Caribbean food. The Proms continue, and outdoor cinemas flourish. Food and music festivals add to the variety. August is bursting with cultural life.

Is August busy in London?

Yes, August is one of the busiest months due to school holidays and festivals. Attractions, parks, and events are crowded. Hotels and flights are more expensive. The atmosphere is lively and celebratory.

What foods are seasonal in London in August?

August markets feature peaches, plums, and courgettes. Summer salads and grilled dishes are popular. Street festivals serve international cuisine. Seasonal flavours are colourful and abundant.

London in September: Weather, Crowds and Costs

September in London marks the transition from summer into autumn, with temperatures cooling to between 12 and 20 degrees Celsius. The air feels crisp in the mornings, yet afternoons remain warm enough for picnics or riverside walks.

Parks begin to change colour, with golden tones creeping into the leaves of Hyde Park and Richmond. The Thames sparkles under softer sunlight, and evenings grow cooler, inviting sweaters and scarves. London feels calmer after the busy summer, with fewer tourists but plenty of energy.

Events in September are both cultural and prestigious. The Last Night of the Proms closes the season with music, song, and celebration at the Royal Albert Hall. London Fashion Week brings designers and models from around the globe, filling the city with glamour.

Open House Festival allows visitors inside normally private buildings, offering glimpses of London’s hidden architecture.

Food markets feature apples, blackberries, and mushrooms, bringing the first flavours of autumn to menus. Pubs begin to serve heartier dishes, balancing the seasonal change.

FAQs about September in London

What is the weather like in London in September?

September is mild, with highs between 12 and 20 degrees Celsius. Days are sunny with cooler mornings and evenings. Rain showers occur but are less frequent than in October. The weather is comfortable for sightseeing.

What events happen in London in September?

The Last Night of the Proms and London Fashion Week are highlights. The Open House Festival invites visitors into historic buildings. Markets and food festivals thrive. September combines culture, history, and creativity.

Is September a good time to visit London?

Yes, September is one of the best months with lighter crowds and mild weather. Parks are scenic with early autumn colours. Attractions are easier to enjoy without queues. It balances summer vibrancy with autumn calm.

What foods are seasonal in London in September?

September markets highlight apples, blackberries, and mushrooms. Restaurants serve dishes that reflect autumn flavours. Pub menus become richer and more comforting. Seasonal food marks the change of season.

London in October: Weather, Crowds and Costs

October in London feels golden, as crisp mornings and cool evenings bring the city into autumn. Temperatures range from 9 to 15 degrees Celsius, with mist often lingering along the Thames.

Parks like Hyde Park, Hampstead Heath, and Greenwich become tapestries of orange, red, and brown, perfect for long walks beneath fallen leaves. The air smells of roasted chestnuts from market stalls, while cafés fill with pumpkin-flavoured pastries and steaming cups of tea.

Light rain showers are common, but they only add to the cosy atmosphere of autumn.

Cultural events thrive in October. The BFI London Film Festival screens world premieres, attracting actors, directors, and cinema fans to Leicester Square. Frieze London, one of the world’s top art fairs, fills Regent’s Park with cutting-edge exhibitions.

Halloween brings spooky tours through the Tower of London and themed events in pubs and theatres.

Food markets brim with mushrooms, pumpkins, and apples, while pubs begin serving hearty pies and stews. The mix of art, film, and autumn flavours makes October unforgettable.

FAQs about October in London

What is the weather like in London in October?

October is cool, with highs between 9 and 15 degrees Celsius. Rain showers are frequent but often light. Parks are stunning with autumn colours. A coat and umbrella are essential.

What events happen in London in October?

The BFI London Film Festival and Frieze London art fair are key highlights. Halloween brings themed tours and parties. Food and cultural festivals also thrive. October is rich with creativity.

Is October a good month to visit London?

Yes, October is perfect for travellers who enjoy art, film, and autumn scenery. Parks are at their most colourful. Crowds are lighter than in summer. The cooler weather makes walking tours enjoyable.

What foods are seasonal in October in London?

Pumpkins, apples, and mushrooms dominate markets. Pubs serve hearty pies and stews. Cafés add autumn flavours like cinnamon and nutmeg. Seasonal food reflects the harvest season.

London in November: Weather, Crowds and Costs

November in London bridges autumn and winter, with temperatures between 5 and 10 degrees Celsius. Mist often curls through the streets, and the days grow noticeably shorter.

Bonfire Night on 5 November lights up the skies, with fireworks displays across the city and the scent of toffee apples in the air. Trees in the parks grow bare, while Christmas lights begin to sparkle across Oxford Street and Covent Garden. The city feels both reflective and festive, moving from autumn calm into winter excitement.

Events define November’s mood. Bonfire Night celebrations recall the Gunpowder Plot, with fireworks and bonfires across parks and riversides.

The Lord Mayor’s Show brings a historic parade through the City of London with floats, costumes, and music. Ice-skating rinks reopen at Somerset House and the Natural History Museum, filling evenings with laughter beneath fairy lights.

Seasonal markets appear, offering mulled wine, roasted nuts, and early Christmas gifts. Food highlights include root vegetables, pears, and warming soups that suit the chilly weather.

FAQs about November in London

What is the weather like in London in November?

November is cold, with highs between 5 and 10 degrees Celsius. Days are short, and evenings arrive early. Mist and drizzle are common. Warm layers are needed for comfort.

What events happen in London in November?

Bonfire Night and the Lord Mayor’s Show are highlights. Ice-skating rinks reopen for the season. Christmas lights switch on across the city. November blends tradition with festive beginnings.

Is November a good time to visit London?

Yes, November is ideal for visitors who enjoy fireworks, early holiday markets, and lighter crowds. The weather is chilly but atmospheric. Attractions are less busy than in December. It is a good balance of festivity and calm.

What foods are seasonal in November in London?

Root vegetables, pears, and cabbages are in season. Soups and stews are popular in pubs. Markets sell festive treats like toffee apples and mulled wine. Seasonal food reflects the shift to winter.

London in December: Weather, Crowds and Costs

December in London sparkles with festive charm, as the city becomes a stage for Christmas celebrations. Temperatures range from 2 to 8 degrees Celsius, with frosty mornings and crisp air that makes scarves and gloves essential. Snow is rare but possible, dusting parks and rooftops in a soft white glow.

Christmas lights brighten Regent Street, Oxford Circus, and Carnaby Street, while Trafalgar Square glitters with its Norwegian Christmas tree. The atmosphere is magical, with carols echoing through churches and laughter spilling from festive markets.

Events define the month. Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park dazzles with rides, ice-skating, and food stalls serving mulled wine and roasted chestnuts. The Royal Albert Hall hosts traditional carol concerts, while The Nutcracker ballet brings enchantment to the Royal Opera House.

Christmas markets fill Southbank, Leicester Square, and Greenwich with crafts and festive food. Boxing Day sales turn the city into a shopper’s paradise, with discounts filling department stores. The year ends with New Year’s Eve fireworks over the Thames, a spectacular finale to the festive season.

FAQs about December in London

What is the weather like in London in December?

December is cold, with highs between 2 and 8 degrees Celsius. Frost is common, and snow occasionally falls. Days are short but bright with festive lights. Warm clothing is essential.

What events happen in London in December?

Winter Wonderland, Christmas markets, and carol concerts are highlights. The Nutcracker and pantomimes fill theatres. Boxing Day sales and New Year’s Eve fireworks add excitement. December is London’s most festive month.

Is December crowded in London?

Yes, December is one of the busiest months. Christmas lights, shopping, and markets attract visitors worldwide. Booking hotels and tickets early is recommended. The festive atmosphere makes the crowds worthwhile.

What foods are seasonal in December in London?

Roast turkey, mince pies, and Christmas pudding dominate menus. Mulled wine and roasted chestnuts fill markets with aroma. Seasonal vegetables include Brussels sprouts and parsnips. December flavours are rich and traditional.

London is a city that offers something unique in every month of the year, changing its rhythm with the seasons. Winter glows with Christmas markets, festive lights, and cosy pubs, while spring brings blossoms, cultural festivals, and fresh flavours to parks and markets.

Summer shines with open-air concerts, rooftop dining, and world-class events like Wimbledon and the Proms, while autumn wraps the city in golden leaves, film festivals, and Bonfire Night celebrations.

The best time to visit London depends on your interests, budget, and preferred atmosphere. January and February are best for affordable travel and quiet museums, while May and June offer gardens and sunshine.

July and August are alive with festivals but attract the biggest crowds, while September and October provide a balance of culture and comfort. November and December deliver festive magic, making them perfect for travellers seeking holiday traditions.

No matter the month, London rewards its visitors with culture, history, and energy that never fades. From riverside walks under summer skies to frosty evenings filled with Christmas carols, the city invites you to experience its charm in every season. Every visit tells a new story, and London ensures that those stories stay with you forever.

When exploring these hidden gems, always consider hiring a guide or joining a tour group, as some locations may require local expertise for the best experience.

Did you know we have a Hidden Gem Finder on our website? This handy little map shows over 13,000 hidden gems across the entire world with their exact co-ordinates available to view on Google Maps as well as an image/description for each one!

Click to view Hidden Gem Finder!