Best Time to Visit London: Weather, Crowds & Prices Guide
"Planning a trip to London? May is when the best weather begins — perfect for long walks and exploring without the crowds. Immerse yourself in a blend of modern culture and local traditions."
We built this guide using recent climate data, hotel price trends, and our own trips, so you can pick the right month without guesswork.
On This Page
Quick Answer
Best months: May, June, and September
These months offer the perfect balance: mild temperatures (14–21°C / 57-70°F), long daylight hours, manageable tourist crowds, and hotel prices 15–25% lower than peak summer. You'll experience London's parks in full bloom or autumn colors without the July–August crush of tourists.
May sees London's parks burst with spring flowers and outdoor festivals. September brings cooler weather, fewer tourists, and Totally Thames—a month-long river festival. Both are excellent value.
Shoulder Season Sweet Spot
The best value window is where good weather overlaps with lower prices. Visit during May or June for near-peak weather at shoulder-season prices — typically 20–30% cheaper than peak summer with manageable crowds. For maximum savings, Jan–Feb offer the lowest prices of the year.
Why Timing Your London Visit Matters
London is a year-round destination, but your experience varies dramatically by season. Here's what timing affects:
Weather & Daylight
Summer days stretch until 21:00 with sunset Thames walks. Winter? Dark by 16:00 and temperatures around 5°C (41°F). Spring and autumn hit the sweet spot with 14–16 hours of daylight and 14–20°C (57-68°F).
Crowds & Queue Times
July–August means hour-plus waits at the Tower of London for the Crown Jewels, even if you've pre-booked tickets. Visit in June and you're more likely to get through in 30–45 minutes. At the British Museum, peak-season days can feel roughly twice as busy as quiet November weekdays.
Hotel Prices Swing 40%+
A 3-star hotel in Westminster costs $253 / £188/night in August, $154 / £114 in May, and $119 / £88 in February. Multiply that by your trip length and the savings are significant.
Seasonal Experiences
Cherry blossoms in Hyde Park (April), Wimbledon tennis (late June–July), Notting Hill Carnival (August bank holiday), Christmas markets (November–December)—each season has unique draws.
| Month | High | Low | Rainy days | Condition |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 8°C | 3°C | 11 | Good |
| February | 10°C | 4°C | 11 | Good |
| March | 11°C | 5°C | 12 | Good |
| April | 14°C | 6°C | 8 | Good |
| May | 18°C | 9°C | 10 | Excellent ((best)) |
| June | 21°C | 12°C | 9 | Excellent ((best)) |
| July | 22°C | 14°C | 10 | Good |
| August | 22°C | 14°C | 8 | Good |
| September | 20°C | 12°C | 11 | Excellent ((best)) |
| October | 16°C | 10°C | 13 | Wet |
| November | 11°C | 6°C | 11 | Good |
| December | 9°C | 5°C | 12 | Good |
Weather data: Open-Meteo Archive (2020-2025) • Historical avg. 2020–2025
London by Season
Spring in London (March-May): Best Overall Season
Spring is when London shines. Parks burst with daffodils and cherry blossoms, outdoor café seating returns, and the city shakes off winter's grey. April and May are the sweet spot—warm enough for outdoor exploring but not yet the summer tourist rush.
What's Great
- • Cherry blossoms peak in early April at Greenwich Park, Kew Gardens, and along the Serpentine in Hyde Park
- • Chelsea Flower Show (late May): Britain's most prestigious horticultural event
- • Outdoor dining returns—South Bank, Borough Market, and Shoreditch terraces reopen
- • Marathon & sports: London Marathon (late April), FA Cup Final (May), Cricket season starts
- • St. George's Day (April 23): English national day with parades and events
- • Long daylight: Sunset moves from 18:30 (March) to 21:00 (May)
Watch Out For
- • Rain is frequent—expect roughly 8–12 wet days a month in spring, so pack a compact umbrella
- • Easter holidays (late March/early April) bring UK school holidays and family crowds
- • Unpredictable weather—layers are essential. A sunny morning can turn into a rainy afternoon
- • Early March is still chilly (8–11°C / 46-52°F) and feels more like winter
Summer in London (June-August): Peak Tourist Season
Summer brings the longest days, warmest weather, and most tourists. June is lovely—warm but not yet crowded. July and August are peak season: school holidays mean packed museums, expensive hotels, and 90-minute waits at major attractions.
What's Great
- • Wimbledon (late June–early July): Tennis grand slam with big-screen viewings across London
- • Pride in London (4 July 2026): Massive celebration and parade through central London
- • Notting Hill Carnival (August bank holiday): Europe's biggest street festival—Caribbean food, music, parades
- • Summer festivals: Wireless (July), British Summer Time Hyde Park (June–July), Proms concerts (July–Sept)
- • Long days: Sunset at 21:15 (June)—perfect for evening walks along the Thames
- • Outdoor cinema: Rooftop film screenings in Peckham, Somerset House, and Regent's Park
- • Parks at peak: Green everywhere, perfect for picnics in Hyde Park, Hampstead Heath, Richmond Park
Watch Out For
- • Crowds everywhere—Tower of London, British Museum, and Westminster Abbey hit capacity by noon
- • Hotel prices spike 30–40% compared to May/September
- • School holidays (late July–August): UK and European families flood attractions
- • Heatwaves are rare but uncomfortable (no AC in most older buildings)
- • August bank holiday (last weekend): Millions leave London for seaside—city empties, some restaurants close
Autumn in London (September-November): Second-Best Season
Autumn is underrated. September feels like an extended summer with fewer tourists and lower prices. October brings autumn colors and Halloween events. November is grey and damp but very affordable and authentic.
What's Great
- • September = best value: Warm weather (15–20°C / 59-68°F), fewer tourists, 20% cheaper hotels than August
- • Totally Thames (all September): Month-long river festival with arts, walks, boat events, and installations along the Thames
- • Autumn colors peak in October at Kew Gardens, Richmond Park, and Hampstead Heath
- • London Film Festival (October): Premieres and screenings across the city
- • Bonfire Night (November 5): Fireworks displays in parks across London
- • Theater season kicks off—new West End shows premiere September–October
Watch Out For
- • November is grey—shortest days (sunset by 16:30), frequent drizzle, and overcast skies
- • Rain increases from September onward—pack waterproof layers
- • Some outdoor attractions close or reduce hours after October
- • Halloween crowds in late October—avoid if you dislike costume chaos
Winter in London (December-February): Festive & Budget-Friendly
Winter is London's off-season—cold, grey, and dark by 4pm—but also magical around Christmas and incredibly affordable in January–February. If you can handle the weather, you'll have museums and theaters almost to yourself.
What's Great
- • Christmas markets (late Nov–early Jan): Winter Wonderland Hyde Park, Southbank Centre, Leicester Square
- • Festive decorations: Oxford Street lights, Covent Garden tree, Trafalgar Square tree
- • January sales: Huge discounts at Harrods, Selfridges, and high-street shops
- • Cheapest prices: Hotels 30–50% cheaper than summer; flight deals common
- • Theater at its best: New shows, no tourist crowds, easy to get tickets
- • Museums are quiet: British Museum, V&A, Natural History—wander empty galleries
Watch Out For
- • Dark by 16:00—sunset around 15:50 in December. Plan indoor activities for evenings.
- • Cold and damp—5–8°C (41-46°F) with wind chill feels colder. Layers + waterproof jacket essential.
- • Christmas week chaos (Dec 20–26): Packed shops, expensive hotels, many restaurants closed Dec 25–26
- • January–February depression—grey skies, short days, and quiet streets. Not for everyone.
- • Some attractions close Dec 25–26 and reduce hours through winter
Month-by-Month Weather
Here's a month-by-month breakdown with real weather data, crowd levels, and insider tips:
Month-by-Month Weather — Methodology:
Jan January
5°C (41°F) · Low · $98–$154 / £72–£114/night 5.9 Cheapest Month—Budget Travelers' Dream
January
Pros
- + Lowest hotel prices all year—40-50% off summer rates
- + January sales—massive discounts at Harrods, Selfridges, Oxford Street
- + Museums are empty—British Museum, V&A without crowds
- + West End theater easier to get tickets
- + Cozy pub culture at its peak with fireplaces and Sunday roasts
Cons
- − Very short days (sunset at 16:00)
- − Cold and damp (5-7°C / 41-45°F)
- − Grey and gloomy—least sunny month
- − Some attractions have reduced hours
- − Not ideal for first-timers wanting sunny London
Practical Tips
- → Pack warm layers and waterproof jacket—London damp feels colder than the thermometer
- → Hit the January sales at department stores—best deals Jan 2-15
- → Book museum tickets online even though it's quiet—skip any queues
- → Try a traditional pub Sunday roast (served noon-6pm)—perfect winter meal
Feb February
6°C (43°F) · Low · $105–$161 / £78–£120/night 6.4 Still Budget-Friendly, Slightly Warmer
February
Pros
- + Still 35-45% cheaper than summer
- + Chinese New Year celebrations in Chinatown (late Jan-mid Feb)
- + Valentine's Day brings romantic package deals
- + Days getting noticeably longer
- + Museums and attractions remain uncrowded
Cons
- − Still cold and grey (similar to January)
- − Valentine's weekend (Feb 12-16) sees hotel price bumps
- − Limited outdoor activities
- − Weather can be unpredictable—rain, wind, occasional sun
Practical Tips
- → Valentine's Day: book romantic restaurants 2-3 weeks ahead
- → Chinese New Year parade in Chinatown is colorful and free
- → Half-term school holiday (mid-Feb) brings slight crowd increase
- → Check theater schedules—some shows close briefly for maintenance
Mar March
8°C (46°F) · Moderate · $133–$197 / £99–£146/night 6.9 Spring Awakening Begins
March
Pros
- + Spring arrives—daffodils bloom in Hyde Park and Regent's Park
- + Daylight hours increase noticeably (clocks forward late March)
- + Shoulder season pricing (20-25% below summer)
- + St. Patrick's Day festivities (March 17)
- + Museums still relatively uncrowded
Cons
- − Weather is unpredictable—can be 5°C (41°F) or 15°C (59°F)
- − Still quite rainy (9 wet days)
- − Easter can fall in late March, bringing crowds
- − Parks aren't at peak bloom yet
Practical Tips
- → Pack both winter coat and light layers—weather swings wildly
- → Check Easter dates—if late March, book hotels 4-6 weeks ahead
- → Daffodils typically peak mid-March at Kew Gardens and St. James's Park
- → Mother's Day (4th Sunday) = restaurants busy, book ahead
Apr April
10°C (50°F) · High · $168–$252 / £125–£187/night 7.4 Peak Spring Magic
April
Pros
- + Cherry blossoms peak (mid-April) in Greenwich Park and Kew Gardens
- + London Marathon (last Sunday)—amazing city energy
- + Parks come alive—tulips, magnolias, green lawns
- + Perfect walking weather (10-15°C / 50-59°F)
- + Easter school holidays bring festive atmosphere
Cons
- − Popular month—book hotels 2-3 months ahead
- − Easter holidays (dates vary) bring European and domestic crowds
- − Still 9 rainy days on average
- − Tower of London and Westminster Abbey book out fast
Practical Tips
- → Book Tower of London first entry slot (09:00) online 2-3 weeks ahead
- → Cherry blossom peak is mid-April—Kew Gardens and Greenwich Park are best
- → Marathon Sunday (last Sun) closes streets—plan transport accordingly
- → Pack umbrella—April showers are real in London
May May
13°C (55°F) · High · $197–$280 / £146–£208/night 6.7 The Best Month Overall
May
Pros
- + Consistently pleasant weather (13-18°C / 55-64°F)
- + Parks are lush and green—perfect for Hyde Park, Regent's Park
- + Chelsea Flower Show (late May)—world-famous garden event
- + Early May Bank Holiday (first Mon)—long weekend
- + Outdoor dining and rooftop bars in full swing
Cons
- − Very popular—hotels book out fast
- − Two bank holidays (first and last Mon) mean shop closures but museums stay open
- − Still 9 rainy days despite pleasant temps
- − Tourist crowds building toward summer peak
Practical Tips
- → Book 3-4 months ahead for good hotel rates
- → May Bank Holidays (first & last Mon) = Monday closures, plan accordingly
- → Chelsea Flower Show tickets sell out—book 6+ months ahead
- → Perfect month for all outdoor activities—Thames walk, parks, markets
Jun June
16°C (61°F) · Very High · $224–$323 / £166–£239/night 7 Excellent Weather, Rising Crowds
June
Pros
- + Longest days of the year (sunset at 21:15)
- + Wimbledon Tennis Championships (late June-early July)
- + Trooping the Colour (King's official birthday, mid-June)—military parade
- + Perfect weather for outdoor activities
- + Pride in London (late June)—massive celebration and parade
Cons
- − Tourist season in full swing
- − Hotels 30-35% more expensive than April
- − Popular attractions require advance booking
- − Wimbledon fortnight (last 2 weeks) spikes SW London hotel prices
Practical Tips
- → Book 4-5 months ahead (January-February) for best rates
- → Wimbledon tickets: queue overnight or enter ballot months ahead
- → Pride Parade (last Sat)—huge crowds in Soho, book hotels early
- → Sunset at 21:15 means you can sightsee until 20:30
Jul July
18°C (64°F) · Very High · $252–$364 / £187–£270/night 8.8 Peak Summer—Long Days, Big Crowds
July
Pros
- + Warmest month (18-24°C / 64-75°F)
- + BBC Proms classical music festival begins (mid-July-Sept)
- + Long daylight for maximum sightseeing
- + Outdoor cinema and theater in parks
- + Summer sales begin late July
Cons
- − Most expensive month for hotels
- − Huge tourist crowds at all major sights
- − School holidays begin mid-July—families everywhere
- − Heat waves (25-30°C / 77-86°F) can hit with no AC in many buildings
- − Book everything 4-6 months ahead or pay premium
Practical Tips
- → Avoid July 20-August 31 if possible—peak school holiday chaos
- → Book Tower, Abbey, British Museum timed slots weeks ahead
- → Tube can be unbearable in heat waves—walk or use buses
- → Consider staying in Zone 2-3 for 25-30% savings
Aug August
18°C (64°F) · Very High · $238–$351 / £176–£260/night 8.7 Busiest Month—Avoid If You Can
August
Pros
- + Still warm and pleasant
- + Notting Hill Carnival (last weekend of Aug)—Europe's biggest street festival
- + Late Summer Bank Holiday (last Mon)—long weekend
- + BBC Proms continue (classical concerts)
Cons
- − Absolute peak crowds—worst month for lines
- − Many Londoners away on holiday—city can feel touristy
- − Highest tourist-to-local ratio
- − Prices remain high throughout the month
- − Some local restaurants and pubs close for holidays
Practical Tips
- → Notting Hill Carnival (last weekend)—book hotels 6+ months ahead, expect noise and crowds
- → Late August (after 25th) is slightly better as families prep for school
- → Major attractions stay open but expect 90+ minute waits
- → If visiting in August, embrace the chaos or pick a different month
Sep September
16°C (61°F) · Moderate · $183–$266 / £135–£197/night 6.1 One of the Best Months—Great Value
September
Pros
- + Perfect weather (16-20°C / 61-68°F)—warm but not hot
- + Crowds drop significantly after Labor Day
- + Totally Thames (all Sept)—month-long river festival
- + London Fashion Week (mid-Sept)
- + Hotels 25-35% cheaper than August
Cons
- − Daylight hours decreasing noticeably
- − Can have rainy spells
- − Some outdoor venues close for the season
- − Fashion Week (mid-Sept) spikes certain hotel prices
Practical Tips
- → Book 2-3 months ahead (June-July) for best rates
- → Early Sept still feels like summer; late Sept is autumn
- → Totally Thames is free and features changing events all month
- → Perfect month for all London activities—walking, museums, parks
Oct October
12°C (54°F) · Moderate · $154–$238 / £114–£176/night 6.8 Autumn Gold—Beautiful Parks
October
Pros
- + Autumn foliage peaks (mid-late Oct) in Richmond Park, Kew Gardens, Hampstead Heath
- + London Film Festival (early-mid Oct)
- + Halloween events (Oct 31)
- + Still pleasant weather (12-15°C / 54-59°F)
- + Half-term week (late Oct) aside, crowds are manageable
Cons
- − Rainy days increase (11 wet days)
- − Sunset at 18:00 (getting dark earlier)
- − Can be chilly mornings and evenings (8-10°C / 46-50°F)
- − Half-term school holiday (late Oct) brings brief crowd spike
Practical Tips
- → Pack layers—mornings are cold, afternoons can be 15°C (59°F)
- → London Film Festival screenings book up fast
- → Autumn foliage best Oct 15-Nov 5—Richmond Park is stunning
- → Half-term week (usually last week of Oct)—avoid if you hate crowds
Nov November
8°C (46°F) · Low · $112–$183 / £83–£135/night 6.8 The Grey Month (But Cheap)
November
Pros
- + Very low crowds—tourist season over
- + Hotels 35-40% cheaper than summer
- + Bonfire Night (Nov 5)—fireworks displays across London
- + Christmas markets begin late November
- + Museums are gloriously empty
Cons
- − Grey, damp, and gloomy (11 wet days)
- − Very short days (sunset at 16:30)
- − Cold but not cold enough for snow charm (8-10°C / 46-50°F)
- − Some outdoor attractions closed for winter
- − Post-autumn, pre-Christmas lull
Practical Tips
- → Avoid mid-November (Nov 10-20) if you need sunshine—dreariest period
- → Bonfire Night (Nov 5)—fireworks at Alexandra Palace, Battersea Park (free or cheap)
- → Embrace cozy London: pubs, museums, theaters, afternoon tea
- → Best month for visiting British Museum with zero crowds
Dec December
6°C (43°F) · Moderate (High Dec 20-31) · $140–$224 / £104–£166/night ($252–$351 / £187–£260 Christmas week) 5.9 Holiday Magic—If You Time It Right
December
Pros
- + Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park (late Nov-early Jan)—Europe's biggest Christmas market
- + Christmas lights on Oxford Street, Regent Street, Covent Garden
- + Ice skating at Somerset House, Natural History Museum, Tower of London
- + Festive atmosphere throughout the city
- + West End Christmas shows and pantomimes
Cons
- − Christmas week (Dec 20-Jan 2) prices spike 40-60%
- − Very short days (sunset at 15:50)
- − Cold and damp (5-8°C / 41-46°F)
- − Many restaurants and shops closed Dec 25-26
- − Transport limited Dec 25
Practical Tips
- → Visit Dec 1-19 for Christmas vibes without peak prices
- → Book Christmas week 6+ months ahead if committed
- → Winter Wonderland is free entry but rides cost—budget $28–$57 / £21–£42
- → Everything closes Dec 25—plan accordingly, few restaurants open
- → Boxing Day (Dec 26) sales are legendary but chaotic
So... When Should You Actually Visit London?
First-Timer Seeking Classic London
May or early June. Perfect weather (14-20°C / 57-68°F), parks in full bloom, long daylight hours (sunset at 20:30–21:00), and manageable crowds. Chelsea Flower Show (late May) adds extra magic.
Budget Traveler
Late January-February. Lowest prices all year (40-50% off summer), museums are empty, West End theater available, cozy pub culture. Just pack warm layers and embrace grey London.
Families with School-Age Kids
June or late August-early September. June has perfect weather and long days before peak crowds. Late August (after 25th) has families heading home while weather stays pleasant.
Couples Wanting Romance
Early May or early December. May brings spring blooms and perfect walking weather. December 1-18 offers Christmas magic (markets, lights, festive atmosphere) without peak-week prices.
Museum & Culture Lovers
November or January-February. Museums are gloriously empty, West End shows easy to get, afternoon tea culture at its coziest. Grey weather makes indoor cultural experiences even more appealing.
Seasonal Activities in London
Discover the best tours and experiences for each season
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best month to visit London?
Is London worth visiting in winter?
When should I avoid visiting London?
Does it rain a lot in London?
What's the warmest month in London?
When do cherry blossoms bloom in London?
When is the best time for autumn foliage in London?
How do UK school holidays and major events affect London crowds?
Why you can trust this guide
35+ countries • 8 years analyzing travel data
Independent developer and travel data analyst based in Prague. 35+ countries visited across Europe and Asia, 8+ years analyzing flight routes, accommodation prices, and seasonal weather patterns.
- Open-Meteo Archive API (2020-2025)
- Visit London tourism statistics
- Booking.com and Numbeo pricing data
Methodology: This guide combines historical climate data, current tourism patterns, and real traveler budgets to provide accurate, actionable recommendations for London.
Updated: February 20, 2026
Ready to Book Your London Trip?
Use our trusted partners to find the best deals
More London Guides
Weather
Historical climate averages to help you pick the best time to visit
Things to Do
Top attractions and hidden gems
Where to Stay
Best neighborhoods and hotel recommendations
Cost & Budget
Daily costs, money-saving tips, and budget breakdown
Complete London Guide
Overview, practical info, budget breakdown & itineraries