London Weather Guide
United Kingdom
Best Time to Visit
June, July, August, September
Avoid
November, December, January
Climate
Temperate oceanic — mild, cloudy, and notoriously changeable year-round
Annual Rainfall
23 inches (585 mm) — spread evenly year-round
Overview
London's weather is famously mild but grey. It rarely gets very hot or very cold, but expect cloud cover most of the year. Summer (June–August) brings the best sunshine and warmth. Rain falls year-round but rarely in heavy bursts.
Seasonal Weather Breakdown
Spring
March–May
45–61°F
7–16°C
Variable but increasingly sunny. April showers are real but often brief. Parks burst into bloom by late April.
- →Layers are key — can vary 20°F in a day
- →Chelsea Flower Show (May) is peak spring
- →Carry a compact umbrella always
Summer
June–August
63–73°F
17–23°C
London's best weather. Warm, long days (sunset past 9 PM in June). Occasional heat waves push temps above 85°F. Most buildings lack AC.
- →Book accommodation with fans or AC during heat waves
- →Hyde Park, Greenwich Park: peak season
- →Evening thunderstorms possible in July–August
Fall
September–November
49–61°F
9–16°C
Cooling rapidly. September is still pleasant; November turns dark and rainy. Fog becomes common.
- →A light waterproof jacket is essential
- →Foliage in Hyde Park and Hampstead Heath peaks in October
- →Tourist crowds thin out — good value
Winter
December–February
38–46°F
3–8°C
Grey, damp, and dark. Snow is rare but freezing rain and frost are common. Very short days — sunset before 4 PM in December.
- →A proper wool coat and waterproof shoes
- →Christmas markets are worth braving the cold for
- →Museums are excellent and free
What to Pack for London
- ✓Waterproof jacket every season
- ✓Compact umbrella
- ✓Layers — London's microclimates vary by neighborhood
- ✓Comfortable walking shoes
London Weather FAQ
What is the best time to visit London for weather?
June through August is London's warmest and sunniest period. July is the peak with average highs of 73°F (23°C). September is also lovely with fewer crowds.
Does it rain a lot in London?
London gets about 23 inches (585mm) of rain per year — less than New York City or Miami — but it drizzles frequently. Rain is spread evenly year-round with no true dry season. A compact umbrella is essential year-round.
Does London get snow?
Rarely. London averages 4–5 snow days per year, mostly in January and February. Significant snowfall (over 2 inches) happens only once every few years due to the maritime climate.
Is London warmer or cooler than other European capitals?
London is warmer than Copenhagen, Oslo, and Warsaw in winter due to Atlantic currents, but cooler than Madrid, Rome, and Lisbon. Its oceanic climate means very mild extremes in both directions.
Neighborhoods in London
Each neighborhood in London has its own microclimate. Check real-time conditions below: