london peak tourist season

London, England   Travel Guide

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Best Times To Visit London, England

The best time to visit London is March through May when the temperatures are mild and the city's parks are green and blooming. However, late spring – along with summer – is also prime tourist season, and hotel and flight prices reflect the surge. You're more likely to find airfare and accommodation deals in the fall and winter though you'll also encounter chilly temperatures. December in London is also an incredibly popular place to be during the holidays, so expect the streets to be crowded with both English and international tourists. And no matter when you travel, you should pack an umbrella: London is notorious for experiencing misty days and showers year-round. If you have any concerns related to the weather, crowds or other unpredictable factors, you might want to consider an international travel insurance policy  or a cancel for any reason plan for more extensive coverage.

Another thing to keep in mind: it's nearly impossible to escape crowds in London. Along with being one of the biggest cities in Europe, London is one of the most popular destinations to visit in the world , so no matter what time of year you go, you're bound to run into lots of tourists.

Weather in London, England

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

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Popular Times to Visit London, England

Tourism volume is estimated based on in-market destination search query interest from Google and on travel.usnews.com in 2015-2016. Hotel prices are sourced from a sample of U.S. News Best Hotels rates through 2015-2016.

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The Best Time to Visit London

Jack Taylor/Stringer/Getty Images

With mild year-round temperatures and a social calendar that never quits, there’s no such thing as a bad time to visit London. That said, the number of visitors from overseas and around the U.K. swells during summer when school’s out and around the winter holiday season. So, to avoid congestion, the best times to visit London are during the shoulder seasons of late winter/early spring ( January to April ; excluding the Easter holidays) and the fall (September to November).

Weather in London

London has a reputation for being a rainy and cold city, but that’s not entirely accurate. Many U.S. cities (including New York) are actually rainier than London. Though London does tend to be cloudy, London is actually the country’s driest city and experiences four seasons—sometimes all in one day.

Winters rarely dip below 40 degrees Fahrenheit (4 degrees Celsius), and snow is uncommon, with the odd burst of flurries rarely accumulating. (In the rare event of any buildup, the city and its airports grind to a halt.) Days are short in winter, as the sun sets around 4:00 p.m.

Spring comes early in London with fair weather and blossoming trees, sometimes emerging as early as late February. On average, spring and fall tend to be London’s rainiest months, but it’s not a major difference from the other seasons.

Summer in London is relatively comfortable compared to other European capitals, with daytime temperatures in the 70s F (20s C); however, there is often a week or two of extreme heat and humidity, with temperatures reaching 90 degrees Fahrenheit (32 degrees Celsius). London isn’t equipped for the sweltering weather, as many places—including some London Underground lines—don’t have air conditioning. But the warm weather brings out Londoners in droves, and summer brings long daylight hours (the sun doesn’t set until about 11 p.m.).

Peak Season in London

Summer is London’s peak season, and you can expect long lines at tourist attractions and high room rates at hotels. For main attractions like the London Eye and the Tower of London, you can pre-book your tickets online several months in advance.

As most museums are free (barring special exhibits), there’s no need to pre-book; however, to avoid crowds, go early in the day and skip weekend visits as London museums are a popular family-friendly pastime for Brits living outside of the city.

Due to the number of hotels, hostels, and holiday rentals available in London, there’s no shortage of choice when it comes to accommodation, but book in advance to avoid disappointment. 

Like any big European city, London is also busy during Christmas. Public transportation is unavailable on Christmas Day and limited on Boxing Day (December 26). Most of London’s most famous attractions and businesses are closed on Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

During the British school holidays, the city is also congested. School holidays occur during summer (usually from July through September); around the Christmas and Easter holidays; and at “half term:” autumn half term is usually end of October and spring half term is usually mid-February.

Though you’ll need a winter coat, January—the city’s coldest month—is a great time to visit London as the holiday hordes have thinned.

Events to check out :

• On January 1, the streets around Piccadilly host London’s New Year’s Day Parade . You can buy grandstand tickets for the festival and parade in advance. 
• During the first two weeks of January, shop ‘til you drop at the January sales. Hit the high streets (main shopping thoroughfares) like Oxford Street and Regent Street and heritage department stores like Harrods , Selfridges , and Fortnum & Mason .
• January 25 is Burns Night, an homage to the Scottish poet Robert Burns, which is celebrated throughout the UK with Scottish-themed food and drink served at many pubs and some restaurants. (There’s usually haggis involved.)

Because the spring half term falls mid-month, there are more children and families in London in February as compared to January, but it’s still a good month to visit—especially if you’re not traveling with kids. 

• Celebrate Chinese New Year in London’s Chinatown with a small parade and various festivities.
• Valentine’s Day is honored at many London restaurants with special menus or festive décor. (Tables for two at top London restaurants should be booked in advance.)

Spring is one of the best times to visit, as London is such a green city and is filled with parks, trees, and flowers.

• St. Patrick’s Day is honored in Trafalgar Square with the London St. Patrick's Day Festival, which usually takes place on the weekend closest to St. Patrick’s Day (March 17). With a considerable Irish population, expect crowds at London’s many Irish pubs.
• In the U.K., Mother’s Day falls in March (the date varies based on the Christian calendar), so expect things like mum-themed afternoon teas and special menus at some restaurants.

Don’t forget your umbrella, as spring can be a bit rainy. Easter public holidays (Good Friday and Easter Monday) sometimes fall as early as March or as late as May. Expect the long weekend to bring crowds, closures, and celebrations. Schools are usually closed for two weeks around Easter.

• The London Marathon is usually in April; expect road closures.

May is the start of the peak tourist season, but it’s a lovely time to visit because of the weather. There are two May Bank Holidays (public holidays when the banks and many businesses are closed). They usually take place on the first and last Mondays of the month.

• The quintessentially British Chelsea Flower Show is a five-day celebration of all things floral and is held in the upscale neighborhood of Chelsea.

The social calendar is in full swing in June, and the city is jam-packed with international and British tourists enjoying the extra daylight hours.

• Trooping the Colour (the Queen's Birthday Parade) extends from Buckingham Palace and includes an appearance by Her Majesty the Queen. You'll need to dress for the occasion and buy tickets in advance.
• Pride in London attracts an estimated one million visitors, and many LGBTQ+ events, including the parade, occur around Oxford Street.
• Wimbledon , the world-famous tennis tournament, sometimes starts at the end of June.

July is London’s hottest month and one of its busiest and most vibrant.

• There are many music festivals in London in the summer, but the most famous is The Proms , a two-week series of contemporary and classical music concerts at the Royal Albert Hall in South Kensington.

Like July, August is warm and crowded. There’s a Bank Holiday on the last Monday of the month.

• Notting Hill Carnival is one of Europe’s largest street parties. A celebration of London’s West Indian community, the event is held over the Summer Bank Holiday weekend.
• Carnaval del Pueblo honors Latin American culture and is held in Burgess Park. 

As school starts again and the weather gets cooler, the crowds begin to thin in London, making it an excellent time to visit.

• Bursting with a creative and diverse range of events, The Thames Festival takes place the first two weeks of the month.

October brings a bit more rain, but a bit fewer people.

• The prestigious BFI London Film Festival brings out Britain’s biggest stars.

November is also an excellent time to visit; the weather is cooling off even more, so crowds are pretty small.

• Bonfire Night or Guy Fawkes Day is celebrated on November 5 throughout the U.K. and commemorates Guy Fawkes' failure to blow up the House of Parliament. There are firework shows and bonfires throughout the city.
• The massive Lord Mayor's Show is an elaborate parade and show, and it shuts down much of London for the day. It's free to watch the procession, but tickets are sold for the grandstands.

In December, London is practically bursting with festive cheer. The city sparkles with Christmas lights (especially around Oxford Circus) and many holiday markets. Christmas Day and Boxing Day (December 26) are public holidays, and most businesses will be closed. Around the holiday period, there’s limited transportation and no public transportation on Christmas Day .

• On New Year’s Eve, London puts on a big fireworks show on the River Thames. Tickets always sell out well in advance.

There is no bad time to visit London, however, if you go during the shoulder seasons (late winter to early spring, excluding the Easter holiday, and in the fall), you'll avoid the summer crowds.

The best time to find bargains on flights to London is during September and October, as well as during November to mid-December, and Christmas Day through mid-March.

The rainiest month in London is June, when the city averages 1.77 inches (45 millimeters) of precipitation.

The Telegraph. "Britain's Snowiest, Coldest and Windiest Places." February 26, 2018.

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When Is the Best Time to Visit London?

By Sarah James

The English capital is one of the most touristed cities anywhere in the world, with nearly 19 million arrivals in 2023—but when is the best time to visit London? While many choose to travel here during the summer to make the most of the many of the destination's parks, rooftop bars, and outdoor activities, all four seasons have something unique to offer for the traveler heading to London . Below, we break down when to visit for the best weather, the best rates, and more.

A version of this article originally appeared on Condé Nast Traveller UK .

When is the best time to visit London?

When you choose to come to London really depends on what you’re looking for during your trip. If you’re hoping for good weather, a visit during the summer ( June , July, or August) means you’re more likely to see sunny and warm days. (That said, remember that this is Britain : Rain or cooler days are possible even during months that might be more traditionally sunny elsewhere.)

If you want to see the city at its most sparkly and magical, the best time to visit London is during the festive period, between late November and the end of December . The autumnal months of September and October bring with them gorgeous leaves, Sunday roasts, and cozy pubs. Whereas spring is the season for nature lovers as blossoms and wisteria begin to flower across the city.

Is there a rainy season in London?

There’s certainly a rainy “season” in London, but not in the same way as they do in tropical climes . The city sees rain throughout all four seasons, but the months with the most average amount of rainfall are November (66.63mm), October (65.07mm), and December (57.05mm), according to Met Office data. January has the most days of rainfall, with 11.53 days on average.

Spring is the season for nature lovers to visit London as blossoms and wisteria begin to flower across the city.

What is the warmest month in London?

According to Met Office data collected between 1991–2020, July is the warmest month in London with an average temperature of 23.89 degrees Celsius (or about 75 degrees Fahrenheit). August is not that far behind, with an average temperature of 23.40 degrees Celsius (although August has considerably more rain than July on average).

Which month has the most hours of sunshine in London?

July is the sunniest month in London, according to Met Office Data, followed by June, then May, then August.

When is the cheapest time to visit London?

Although London remains busy with tourists all year, January and February are historically the quietest months in the capital and, therefore, can offer the best opportunities to save money and to bag deals. Avoid the February half term (a period of school holidays), the exact dates of which change annually.

January and February are historically the quietest months in London, when you get the best chances to save money and score deals.

When should you visit London for Christmas activities?

If you’re looking to visit London during the festive period, you’ll want to time your trip when the Christmas lights have begun to sparkle, holiday markets have opened, and fun events are taking place. Most big light displays—such as those on Oxford and Regent Street—happen in the second week of November, while Christmas markets kick off toward the end of the month. We’d recommend timing your visit toward the end of November or the beginning of December to get the best of London’s festivities without the busiest crowds.

When is the best time to avoid the crowds in London?

Speaking of crowds, London can be very busy with tourists during peak travel times. If you’d rather plan a more peaceful visit, consider traveling during the week (as in, not the weekends) and outside of school holidays (in the UK, these take place at Easter and during the end of July through to the beginning of September, with shorter school term breaks in February, May, and October).

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Best time to visit London | A month-on-month guide

Things to do in London London Travel Guide Best Time To Visit London

London , the multicultural hub of the United Kingdom, embodies a vibrant mosaic of diversity. Its essence is painted with hues from every corner of the globe, with a significant portion of its populace hailing from foreign lands, rendering it a genuine cosmopolitan center. Remarkably, amidst this cultural tapestry, London retains a profound reverence for its storied heritage. For those seeking a captivating blend of cultural richness, picturesque landscapes, and quintessential English charm, London stands unparalleled. While the city offers enchantment throughout the year, discerning the optimal time to experience its allure is key. Consult our comprehensive guide and seize the perfect moment to explore London—you won't be disappointed!

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• Best Time To Visit London - Know Before You Plan Your Trip

London Through The Year

Best season to visit london, weather in london year round, a month-by-month guide to visiting london.

• London 3 Day Itinerary
• More London Guides

Know Before You Plan Your Trip to London

Best time of the year to visit london.

London is brimming with breathtaking sights that captivate visitors year-round. However, if forced to pick an optimal time, the period spanning from March to May emerges as particularly enchanting. During this window, spring blooms in its full splendor, adorning the parks of London with vibrant blossoms. As the chill of winter subsides, summer begins to beckon. While the city may be bustling with crowds, London offers abundant delights to cater to every taste.

Best Time To Visit London For Different Kinds Of Travellers

Best Time for Sightseeing & Outdoor Activities: Your prime opportunity hinges on the weather. London shines in early summer and late spring, offering ideal conditions for city exploration with lower chances of rainfall.

Best Time for Museum Buffs: April and May are the prime months, coinciding with the Museums at Night event. This special occasion sees many museums participating, transforming your museum visits into thrilling experiences.

Best Time for Honeymooners: London charms honeymooners during its shoulder seasons, from March to May and from September to October. During these periods, crowds are thinner, and the weather remains pleasant, making it ideal for romantic day trips.

Best Time for Budget Travellers: The low season is a boon for those mindful of their wallets. November and February offer discounted accommodations and flight rates, though some attractions may be closed, and weather can be chilly.

Best Time for Shopaholics: June and July are the prime months for shopaholics, with major sales events happening across the city. Additionally, December during the holiday season is another enticing period for shopping excursions in London.

Tourist Seasons in London

• High season in London: High season in London is mainly during the summer months. This is the time when the locals try to make the best of the weather. Although the rain and humidity are unrelenting, there are a number of events going on in the city during this time, and the warmer weather encourages the visitors to keep pouring in.
• Shoulder season in London: Placed on either side of the high season, is the time when you can enjoy the city slightly less crowded, albeit in colder weather. The time from March to April, and from Mid-September to October features less rain as well. The shoulder season is for you if you want to take your time (and space) to explore London.
• Low season in London: British weather has a notorious reputation, and this is largely due to the winters. This is why November to February is the low season in London. If you are prepared to brave this weather to secure hotel and flight discounts, you may find a modest London waiting on your arrival. You will be able to enjoy most of London without any interference from the overload of visitors.

London in Spring

From March to May, London is adorned in the splendor of spring. The city reaches its peak sensory delight during this season. London's parks and gardens burst into vibrant bloom, creating an enchanting atmosphere perfect for leisurely strolls. With the tourist rush still at bay, spring offers a golden opportunity to savor the city's charms without the crowds. If you find yourself in London during this magical time, seize the moment and make the most of your visit.

London in Summer

From June to August, London experiences its summer season, though it's no longer the same as it once was. Previously known for its temperate weather interspersed with occasional showers, it's now prone to heat waves. Nevertheless, London retains its festive spirit throughout the summer months. Visiting the city during this time ensures an abundance of activities to keep you entertained.

London in Autumn

September marks the commencement of autumn in London, extending its embrace until mid-November. During this season, London's foliage is painted with a charming warmth. As temperatures cool, the bustling crowds gradually thin out. This period is cherished by Londoners, as it coincides with school holidays and the anticipation of Halloween festivities, making it a delightful time to experience the city's vibrant atmosphere.

London in Winter

London experiences winter from mid-November through February, bringing with it unforgiving weather conditions. Despite the chill, it's entirely possible to savor your visit during this season. With adept layering, you can discover the city in its purest form, devoid of crowds. The enchanting Christmas lights infuse London with a mystical atmosphere, complemented by enticing off-season sales for added allure.

The Weather in London year round has been charted on a graph below. The Highs are depicted in blue and the Lows in orange.

Follow our detailed guide to pick a month for your London exploits.

London In January

Average Temperature: 9°C to 4°C

January kicks off the second half of winter in London. It begins with frigid temperatures but tends to inch towards the realm of habitable as the month wears on. Consequently, the tourist crowd is not very fond of January. If you are the kind of person who would go to any length to avoid the crowd, this is the time for you. The city continues to celebrate after the new year’s parade with numerous pop-ups and workshops. Events like the London Short Film Festival and Hogwarts in Snow at Warner Bros Studios should keep you busy in January. If you are visiting London in January, be sure to pack enough warm clothes and look for deals on accommodation and flights.

London In February

Average Temperature: 9°C to 5°C

London’s weather keeps up its unpredictability in February. The temperature fluctuates but the rain is almost a constant presence in the entire month. With the holiday season well and truly over, tourist crowd dwindles further in February. You can enjoy pristine London in February. The city takes on a completely different avatar during Valentine’s Day, and it would be a great idea to take a romantic trip down the Thames with your partner. If fashion is where your heart lies, you may bear witness to the London Fashion Week in February. You will also see London’s cosmopolitan side during the Chinese New Year celebrations. If you are visiting London in February, you should ask around to find live music and cabaret shows to make the most of your time.

London In March

Average Temperature : 12°C to 6°C

London is finally able to sniff some semblance of warmth in March. There is a considerable increase in daylight hours. The rain is still prevalent, however. Some visitors start coming in and you should too because March provides you with the luxury of being far away from both the summer and the holiday season. You can enjoy the overwhelmingly popular attractions such as the Westminster Abbey and the Shard with relatively less crowd. March paints London in two very distinct colors on Mother’s Day and on St. Patrick’s Day. You have to witness both to understand the city’s soul. If you are visiting London in March, do not forget to check out the Battersea Spring Affordable Art Fair to pick up some souvenirs.

London In April

Average Temperature : 15°C to 7°C

April is the time of the year when London can truly believe that good weather exists. It is the beginning of Spring, and the gardens of the city begin rendering London a mottled appearance. April is also one of the rainiest months, but the visitors keep coming in anyway. If you are lucky to find a clear day, you should walk around and enjoy the parks of the city. Easter celebrations are usually quite vibrant in London with interactive activities going on all week. The London Marathon is another event that attracts global attention. You should also check out the Underbelly Festival that begins in April. The event celebrates performance arts. If you are heading to London in April, get your bookings confirmed in advance.

67 Experiences You Cannot Miss Out In London

London in may.

Average Temperature : 18°C to 10°C

If you are looking to find a balance between good weather and a moderate crowd, you will not find it any better than in May. Spring is in full swing and the weather may enable you to keep your scarves in your hotel rooms once in a while. London is at its vibrant best May. If you are in the city at this time, be sure to take a cruise on the Thames and see London from a fresh perspective. The city indulges in the weather with the RHS Chelsea Flower Show. For the artistically inclined, the Photo London and the London Craft Week are a must visit. It is also the month that sees the end of the wildly popular English Premier League. Remember to make online reservations before heading out anywhere in May.

Recommended Experiences in London during Spring

London In June

Average Temperature : 21°C to 13°C

Summer officially begins in London in June. The temperature often reaches beyond the 20°C mark. This also means that hordes of tourists come storming through Heathrow. The rain doesn’t ever subside in London, so be prepared to encounter more showers. Summer is a great time to get all of your walking done. Take to the streets of London, which slowly begin to resemble that of a proper tourist destination, and absorb the cosmopolitan culture. The city witnesses an upturn in the number of music festivals in June. You must not miss out on the Taste of London food festival. There are a few art and craft exhibitions going on as well. You might want to steer clear of the rush hour traffic if you are in London in June.

London In July

Average Temperature : 22°C to 15°C

If you prefer your holidays to take place in pleasant weather, July is the time for you to be in London. Summer in London generally features a high of mid-20°C, that is perfect for outdoor activities and parties. No wonder why the crowd keeps piling on in July year after year. You may opt to visit one of London’s many famous landmarks, but be prepared to encounter a massive crowd. London in July forms the focal point of a number of events including Wimbledon. The cricket season begins during this time as well. The Underbelly Festival continues and many more music festivals make their appearance to add to the festive mood of the Londoners. If you are visiting London in July, keep your eyes out for the occasional heat wave.

London In August

August is one of the two warmest months of the year in London. The summer is officially past its midpoint and is heading towards a close. The tourist crowd at this point is n the brink of spilling over despite the occasional rainy days. If you want a relatively peaceful tourism experience, you should consider heading out of London and take a day trip. Trips to the Cotswolds or Dover would be especially delightful. August is the best time to take children to London as there are many family-friendly events going on. You can witness the beginning of the Premier League season in August. London erupts during the Notting Hill Carnival, Europe’s largest street party, and this itself is a reason enough for you to visit London in August.

Recommended Experiences in London during Summer

London In September

Average Temperature : 20°C to 13°C

There is a slight drop in the mercury spotted in September. Schools open in September which results in a downturn in tourist arrivals. September also marks the onset of Autumn in London. The slightly warmer tone in the foliage once again makes a walk in one of London’s gardens a delight. You can take advantage of the reduced crowd and head to one of the popular day trips from London, like Oxford or the Stonehenge. London celebrates the history of the Thames in September with the Totally Thames festival. Concerts and art exhibitions are hosted throughout the month centered around the river. The London Design Festival and the Japan Matsuri are also worth attending in September.

London In October

Average Temperature : 16°C to 10°C

London is taken over by Autumn colors in October. Tourist arrivals dwindle further, encouraging Londoners to kick back and relax for a bit. The weather in October is ideal for outdoor activities. London in October gives you a chance to obtain a decompressed tourism experience. You may pick a clear day and head to Richmond Park or Kew Garden to observe the interplay of rich autumnal hues. London also shows its multicultural side, hosting festivals like Diwali and Africa on the Square. For the gastronomist, London hosts the London Cocktail Week and London Restaurant Festival. October will also give you an exclusive look at the city’s celebration of Haloween.

Recommended Experiences in London during Autumn

London in november.

Average Temperature : 12°C to 7°C

November sees the temperature take a plunge. Daylight hours begin going down dramatically and the overcast skies play their part to announce the arrival of winter. This is possibly the time of the year that encounters the least amount of tourists. If you want to enjoy your vacations without any distractions, London in November is for you. A pre-holiday lull overtakes London in November, but that doesn’t stop the locals from indulging in the Bonfire Night. Head to the London pubs on the weekends to enjoy hearty roasts. You can also enjoy the Regent Street Motor Show and the EFG London Jazz Festival in November. If time permits, you must check out the Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park.

London In December

Average Temperature : 9°C to 5°C

London experiences full-blown Winter in December. The mercury dives below the freezing point at times and snowfall is not uncommon. The daylight hours are in short supply, so London tries its best to use the twilight. Some section of tourists returns for the holiday season in December as London dresses up in pretty lights. Despite the weather, December has to be the most visually rewarding month to be in London. A London Eye ride on a clear evening can be the most memorable holiday experience for you. The holiday spirit also brings a few Christmas markets in London. Take some time to explore Hyde Park, Trafalgar Square, Kew Gardens, and other popular spots of the city to truly appreciate the festive season.

London 3-day Itinerary

Whether you're visiting London in May or November, here's a handy 3 day London itinerary to experiencing the best of London.

When is the best time to visit London?

The best time to visit London is from April to June and September to October when the weather is mild and there are fewer crowds. However, keep in mind that prices for hotels and flights are generally higher during these months. If you're looking to save money, you can visit London from November to March when rates are typically lower. Just be prepared for colder weather and more rain.

What are the peak tourist seasons in London?

The peak tourist seasons in London are from April to June and September to October. These months have milder weather and fewer crowds, making them ideal times to visit. However, keep in mind that prices for hotels and flights are generally higher during these months.

What are the shoulder seasons in London?

The shoulder seasons in London are from March to April and October to November. These months have milder weather than the peak tourist season, but there may be more crowds and higher prices than during the off-season.

What is the off-season in London?

The off-season in London is from November to March. This is when prices for hotels and flights are typically lower, but you'll need to deal with colder weather and more rain.

What is the cheapest time of year to visit London?

The cheapest time of year to visit London is from November to March. This is when prices for hotels and flights are typically lower, but you'll need to deal with colder weather and more rain.

What time of year does London have the best weather?

The best time of year for weather in London is from April to June and September to October when the weather is mild and there are fewer crowds. However, keep in mind that prices for hotels and flights are generally higher during these months. If you're looking to save money, you can visit London from November to March when rates are typically lower.

An introvert who expresses herself by the words that flow out as she writes. A Bangalorean by heart but has been across 22 countries by the age of 22. New York, Paris & Kashmir making it to her top 3 list of places that she has been to, she plans to go on a solo adventure in the near future. Her gypsy home is filled with souvenirs from across the world. She's always up to take her tastebuds on a food tour. As a world explorer, she has learnt that travelling helps her rejuvenate her soul by filling it up with memories and life lessons that no school ever taught.

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The Best Time to Visit London: the honest truth

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If you’ve already booked your ticket, fear not – the best time of year to come to London is when you’re coming!

Seriously, this is an awesome city year round, and while you should be prepped for certain types of weather in London depending on the month you come and read up on attraction openings (no use coming in the winter if your only wish list is to see the Buckingham Palace State Rooms which are only open in the summer), you’ll still have a fantastic time whenever you visit.

To help you navigate your plans or figure out the best time to go to London, I’ll talk about the experience of visiting in each season.

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Best month to visit London

What is the best month to travel to London?

If you want the short honest answer, the best time to visit London for me is May or September, both months with relatively good weather but fewer tourists than peak season.

IMPORTANT: are you coming to the UK from abroad?

In case you’re reading this from outside the UK and will be a foreign visitor here, you need to know these 2 things to stay safe and save money.

• Travel insurance – you need it when going overseas! I use this site to get the best quotes and purchase my packages from. Do not skip this – having medical coverage abroad as well as other coverage in case of missed flights, lost luggage, etc is essential. As I said, I have never gone wrong using this site .
• International debit cards without fees – do not get stuck paying extortionate foreign fees when using your card abroad (and the UK is almost all card these days). I use the Wise debit and travel card which you can apply and learn more about here .

When’s peak season in London?

High season in London is typically June through August, with the real high season happening in July and August.

Why’s that?

This is the most popular time of year in London that most people are on vacation with their kids as it lines up with school vacations around the world.

It’s also typically the warmest months in London, which attracts a lot of visitors, and London comes to life in the summer with events like Wimbledon, music festivals, and so much more.

When’s the cheapest time to visit London?

Want to visit London on a budget?

The best time to visit London if you want to save money is to visit during the winter, primarily January through March.

The weather in these months, as you’ll find out in the “winter in London” section below, is subpar with a lot of grey and drizzle, but all of the iconic attractions will be open and you’ll save money on flights and hotels.

🛎 Still looking for somewhere to stay in London?

My favorite hotel in London for all visitors is the Strand Palace ( click here to check prices ). ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Spring in London: the best season to visit London

The months of March, April, and May are some of the most variable in the UK.

The earlier months are still very much winter temperatures, whereas May can be either pretty chilly or pretty warm depending on what Mother Nature decides to do.

In any case, you’ll get amazing daylight hours as you head towards late Spring, and I love Spring in the UK as it’s when the UK starts to come to life again, both literally in the sense of the flowers and trees, but also in the sense that people seem to start coming out of their own hibernation a bit and start planning events and activities at a faster pace.

Spring can be a cheap time to visit the UK if you come outside of the “ Easter holidays ,” which is two weeks surrounding whenever Easter falls that year that kids are out of school.

It isn’t peak tourist season, which means you can enjoy (hopeful) sunshine and Spring excitement without the hoards of visitors that come in the summer months.

Definitely one of the best times of year to visit London.

Summer in London: best time to visit London weather-wise

The months of June, July, and August in London are mostly going to be temperate to warm in the UK.

It can get a bit cool in June, but by July and August you’re looking at mostly temperatures in the 70s to 90s (gasp!).

If you are prone to getting overheated, make sure to book somewhere with air conditioning as heatwaves can hit the UK at this time and the infrastructure just isn’t meant for it.

The tourist season starts up really in full force in June, but is really in its peak in July and August.

British students get their summer starting in July for six weeks, which leads to an increased number of people traveling, even within the country.

This can mean long lines for some attractions, an incredible amount of people trying to take the tube and wander through the touristy areas like Westminster , and the need to book further ahead for tours and activities.

However, that being said, summer in the UK is hands down the best time to be able to take advantage of the most opportunities and attractions, and June is the best month to visit London.

When you live in a country that doesn’t see sunshine for much of the rest of the year (okay, it does, but not as much as you’d like), people really embrace the summer.

You’ll find festivals, events, special attractions like the Buckingham Palace State Rooms open, and of course the chance to really take advantage of green space, whether that be sitting in the park with a picnic or exploring the Lake District.

Daylight hours in the summer are also great, with the longest day of the year being in June.

In the summer, it’s common for the sun to rise at 4-5am and not set until 9-10pm depending on the month.

A real bonus when it comes to maximizing your time!

Fall in London: one of the best times to visit London

In September, October, and November, the UK has its transition from the summer days (September can still be pretty summery) to the cold and dark days of November.

How fast it will happen is anyone’s guess, but we usually consider October 14 th , my husband’s birthday, as the point at which you “feel” like it’s the Fall and put your shorts and short sleeves away.

Like Spring, the weather is particularly variable in this time period so make sure to look at the weather right before you go.

As the daylight hours start to fade, the kids go back to school, and the UK starts to sink into a sort of hibernation again, but with it also go the same hoards of tourists that visited in the summer.

Fall can be a lovely time to walk around and enjoy the UK with a bit of elbow room, particularly in the later Fall months.

If you visit late enough in November, many of the Christmas activities will have started up as well, so you can turn it into a festive trip.

Winter in London

From December to February, the UK sees the least sunlight of the year and its coldest temperatures.

Snow is not a frequent occurrence, but when it does happen, it will be a big weather event and cities like London will grind to a halt if it’s more than a dusting.

You can get some of the cheapest flights to London in January and February, which means it can be a great answer to “when to come to London” if you’re on a budget.

December is still a popular month as people are traveling specifically to spend Christmas and the holidays in the UK, but you still won’t see the same amount of crowds as you do in the summer.

And, I won’t lie, January and February can also be a bit bleak weather wise, but if you’re ready to cozy up by a log fire or put on your warmest mittens and embrace whatever weather the UK has to throw at you, you can absolutely have an amazing time (and, bonus, spend less on hotel rooms and flights so you can splurge in other areas!)

And there you have it – a run down of visiting in each season.

If you’re really desperate to know the absolute BEST TIME to come to London or the best month to come to London, I can’t give you a definitive answer because it depends on what you prioritize, but hopefully this has helped give you an idea of when would be the best for you to come based on your budget, crowd tolerance, and weather tolerance!

Want more London travel guides? Check these out!

• The Definitive London Packing List for Visitors
• Getting around London: Everything a Visitor Needs to Know
• Weather in London: a Visitor’s Guide
• London on a Budget: How to Save Money in London
• Money in the UK: How to Pay for Things in London
• Exactly How Many Days to Spend in London: an Expert Guide
• What to Wear in London (How to Dress Like a Londoner)
• British Pub Etiquette: the must-read guide
• 49+ Expert London Travel Tips
• Visiting London with Anxiety: the ultimate guide

UK Travel Planning Guide: the FAQs

🏥 Should I buy UK travel insurance?

Absolutely yes. Basic coverage is not expensive, and as a visitor you are NOT covered under the NHS. Compare policies and prices with Travel Insurance Master here , a big name in the travel insurance business, and cross that off your list.

🔌 Do I need travel adapters for the UK?

Yes, you do, otherwise you won’t be able to plug in your electronics/phone/lifelines. I recommend this one , which is all-in-one so you can use it in other countries.

🚗 What do I need to drive in the UK?

The first thing you need to check out if you’re planning on renting a car in the UK is this guide to driving in the UK for visitors – the roads, signs, and driving experience will likely not be what you’re used to and it’s essential to prepare yourself to stay safe and aware.

🛌 What’s the best way to book hotels in the UK?

For UK hotels, Booking is the best site as it offers free cancellation on many properties. If you want an apartment, I always recommend VRBO over AirBnb.

📳 Will my phone work in the UK?

Yes – if you set it up right. Check out my guide on making your foreign phone work in the UK to ensure that you get the type of service you need.

🚿 Can I drink the water in the UK?

Yes, UK water is great and perfectly safe. But drink out of taps in any kitchen or use water fountains. Double check before drinking out of the taps in hotel bathrooms, though, as they may be on a different system. London water is safe to drink .

Heading to London? Want the best tips?

Check out my Ultimate Guide to London for Visitors. Using text, images and video, this guide is packed full of tips, tricks, safety advice, knowledge on how to get around and what to do, and more!

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The Best Time to Visit London 2024: the Ultimate Guide

Planning to visit London? If you have never been, it is best to know about the climate and weather conditions to find out the best time to visit London depending on what you plan on doing during your visit. Whether you plan to see London from 400 feet up in the London Eye or Christmas shopping on Oxford Street and January sales in winter, there is always a great time to go.

With just over nine million residents, London is located in southeastern England where it has been a populated city center for more than 1,975 years. It was founded by the Romans in 47 AD along the River Thames and was named Londonium for about 500 years.

The city has a temperate oceanic climate with an average temperature of around 53 degrees F (11.7 degrees C), an average rainfall of 51 inches per month, and 139.6 hours of sunshine per month. If you are considering a trip, you should consider the seasons before you plan to visit London.

Visiting London during the summer months can offer you tourist attractions that include outdoor activities and even water sports to enjoy while if you visit London in winter, you will likely want to find some indoor activities to explore. Peak season is from June through August due to the long daylight hours and abundance of entertainment.

Central London is often busy as one of the most popular tourist cities in the world. But holidays are the most popular as some visit London during December to see the Christmas lights, and Easter Monday at the beginning of the spring season.

However, the best time to visit London for you depends on what kind of activities you enjoy, what you plan to do in London, and whether or not you enjoy crowds. No matter when you visit this fabulous city, be sure to find Bounce luggage storage in London where you can stow your bags safely. Don't let extra weight slow you down!

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Summer in London: June - August

For many, summer is the best time to visit London. In fact, July and August are the peak tourist season in London due to the warm weather and the number of events going on in the city at that time. It is also popular because the winter months can be too chilly for outdoor fun.

In London, summers do not mean scorching hot weather that chases you indoors. Instead, the average high in June is 71 degrees F (21.6 degrees C), July is 75 degrees F (23.9 degrees C), and August has a high of 74 degrees F (23.4 degrees C). The average monthly rainfall during the summer is about 1.9 inches of rain and an average of 209 hours of sunshine per month.

You will want to pack some short-sleeved shirts and shorts for summer, but you will also need long pants and jackets because it can drop into the 50s at night. An umbrella is a good idea all year long and summer is no different.

Summer in London is a fantastic time if you plan to do some outdoor activities like visiting music festivals , trying out the London Eye, or swimming and boating in Serpentine Lake at Hyde Park. In June, don't miss the Queen's birthday parade where you can actually see her majesty. In 2022, it is the Queen's Platinum Jubilee, so expect phenomenal crowds!

According to many, London weather is best in early summer when there are over 200 hours of sunshine per month and average temperatures in the 70s. This is certainly the best time with the least bank holidays to affect your vacation. Every bank holiday can affect your visit as many places are closed and public transportation is limited.

Royal Albert Hall in South Kensington hosts many musicals during the summer but The Proms in July is the most popular. Sunny weather is a big draw to any tourist attractions from the summer music festivals at the Royal Hall to the Notting Hill Carnival and visiting the state rooms at Buckingham Palace . Another special festival is All Points East at Victoria Park in August.

Those who want to avoid crowds will not want to visit London in the summer months. The city is packed with tourists from early June until the end of August. Expect long lines, higher hotel prices, and a lot of traffic during this prime time.

Fall in London: September - November

The summer crowds start going back home in September and the temperatures start to cool off. Fall brings what Londoners call shoulder season or off season , which is when the streets and attractions are less crowded, the trees start changing colors, and prices tend to drop due to fewer tourists in early fall.

The average high temperature in September is 68 degrees F (20.2 degrees C), October sees highs around 60 degrees F (15.8 degrees C), and November starts to get chilly temperatures of just 53 degrees F (11.5 degrees C). Expect about 2.4 inches of rain per month with 114 hours of sunshine per month.

It is a good idea to pack warm clothes and a coat as well as an umbrella during the fall but the bonus is that you will not see as many crowds at outdoor attractions like the Buckingham palace, the local parks, and the London Zoo. There are plenty of things to do in London on a rainy day ; you'll be entertained nonetheless!

Fall is a better season for places like the British Museum , the Sky Garden , and the London Transport Museum as well as many dining options and indoor theaters. Shopping malls are popular in the fall where you can find hundreds of retail shops, eateries, and entertainment under one roof.

Fall is the perfect time for visiting the London Design Festival, Frieze Fair, the Thames Festival, and the food and wine festival in Regents Park at Tobacco Dock. Another popular event in the fall is the Bonfire Night on November 5th with fireworks and bonfires all over the city.

For those who do not like the occasional bad weather and wish to enjoy all the attractions outside, fall is not the time to visit London. If you are looking for the best shopping time and public holidays, you may want to visit in the winter holidays instead.

Winter in London: December - February

Hyde Park is also popular in the winter when the Winter Wonderland fills the space with Christmas lights, funfair rides, and food stalls. The winter season is almost as popular as the summer with many of the holiday markets, Christmas day, boxing day, and school holidays.

You will find the coldest temperatures in London during this time, of course. The average high in December is only 48 degrees F (8.8 degrees C), about 47 degrees F (8.4 degrees C) in January, and 48 degrees F (9 degrees C) in February. You can expect about 2.1 inches of precipitation per month in the winter with most of it being snow and sleet. The sun is not a frequent visitor in the winter with only 65 hours of sunshine per month.

Pack your long johns, snow boots, and winter coats if you are visiting London in the winter. Although there is plenty of mild weather as well, it is mostly cold and wet so you will want to wear layers and bring your hat and gloves.

Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park is one of the most popular festivals of the entire year where you can watch cooking demonstrations, shop for souvenirs and fresh baked goods, or just enjoy the entertainment. Burns night in January is also popular as well as other public holidays like Boxing Day, Christmas Day, and New Year's Eve.

In fact, Christmas Day in London is special. The streets are not busy, and you can enjoy the way the city sparkles with colorful lights and decorations. From mid-December to late January, you can save money on hotel prices since this is the cheapest time to visit London.

January and February are your best bet for great deals. Shop until you drop for the first two weeks of January when Regent Street has the best sales to take advantage of. However, if you are not a fan of snow and cold weather or you want to enjoy outdoor activities, winter is not the time to visit.

Spring in London: March-May

Spring is the favorite time of year for most of the locals in London and it may be yours as well. With the weather getting warmer and flowers beginning to bloom, everything is beautiful and vibrant. Mid-March is splendid as the sun starts to come back out.

The average high in March is 53 degrees F (11.7 degrees C), it is 59 degrees F (15 degrees C) in April, and May has an average high of 65 degrees F (18.4 degrees C). Another benefit of spring in London is the lack of rain. The average amount of rainfall is 1.7 inches per month and 170 hours of sunshine per month. You won't be needing your snowshoes or winter coat, but you will need to pack some warm clothes like long-sleeved shirts, jackets, and long pants.

Although Easter Monday is a bank holiday and most of the shops are closed, early spring is beautiful in London with a lot to see and do. From Good Friday until Easter Monday, you will notice that the streets seem empty even with the good weather. The visiting hours start getting later as the sun is up longer.

Royal sites are still open, and you can get some nice pics of the Royal Palace without all the tourists in the way of your shots. The Chelsea flower show in May is spectacular and is one of the key events from spring through summer. And if you cannot get close to the Royal Family, you can get some great selfies with them at Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum.

If you are heading to London for swimming, boating, and other water sports, you will want to wait until summer. Spring is just not warm enough for braving the cold waters of the River Thames and other popular bodies of water.

When is the best time to visit London for you?

Although you can visit most of the London attractions year-round, there are certain times of the year that are better than others depending on your interests. If you love to shop and enjoy the holidays, December and January are the best months for you.

July and August are perfect for outdoor fun including many of the festivals celebrating everything from food to music. Fall is a lovely time to see London with all of its autumn colors and pleasant weather. London Cocktail Week is a month-long festival during October that is popular with the adults. And spring is best for mild weather and fewer crowds.

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Travel Experts Say This Is The Best Time Of Year To Visit London

Even though you may have just rewatched The Holiday — the rom-com where Cameron Diaz’ character switches homes with Kate Winslet’s character and ends up in England — take a moment before you jump to book your plane ticket to London . Yes, you may think there’s “no time like the present,” but first figure out what your travel goal is: Do you want to save money and go in the off-season, or do you want to go ASAP, even though airline prices may be higher and there may be more tourists? In any case, if you take travel experts’ advice, you can figure out the best time to visit London .

As the largest city in the United Kingdom — with 8.95 million people as of July 2019, according to Population UK — it’s no surprise that London attracts a lot of tourists . Overall, millions of people go to the UK each year ; in February 2019, VisitBritain projected that 38.8 million people would be visiting this year. And looking up traveling to London is popular among Americans, too; in 2019, it ranked number nine on KAYAK’s “Most Popular Destinations” list, which is made up of the most-searched cities in North America.

But when should you go to the country’s capital city? “There’s never a bad time to go to London, but there are definitely pros and cons to each season,” Steve Sintra, Regional Director, North America at KAYAK , tells Bustle. “And from history to culture to nightlife, the city offers something for everyone — it just depends on what you’re looking for.” Below, he and other travel experts weigh in on the best time to go to London .

If You Want Warm Weather, Go In Late Spring Or Summer (But Expect To Pay More)

Sintra says that summer is the peak tourist season in London — and for good reason. “Not only is weather at its best, but the social calendar is packed,” he says. “If you’re a fan of British Royalty, this is a great time to visit: several residences are open to the public, and the famous Trooping the Colour — the Queen’s birthday parade — takes place in June.” He adds that other other notable summer events include Pride events, Notting Hill Carnival (one of Europe’s largest street festivals), and some of the capital’s biggest music festivals.

However, going to London in the summer can cost you. “The popularity of this time period does quite literally come with a price: June and July are among the most expensive months to fly there — with median airfare respectively at $779 and $791 — and nightly hotel rates are also the most expensive during these months,” says Sintra. “You can also expect larger crowds and longer lines during this time.”

Carey Malloy, director of brand & marketing at Orbitz , agrees. “High tourist season — late spring through summer and December for holiday market season — will certainly mean crowds, higher hotel prices, and lines,” she tells Bustle. But, you can always consider flying a budget airline or exploring secondary airports nearby. “For instance, Stansted Airport is known for its budget carriers and could offer some savings if you’re willing to make some tradeoffs on comfort, snacks, and in-flight entertainment,” she says.

Malloy also points out that London in the summer means you’ll be competing for tickets to Broadway shows, museums, and tours. But if summer is the only time you can, or want, to go, she suggests booking tickets and activities in advance, especially those you really want to see. “On Orbitz, you can book dining, sightseeing, guided tours, and more — and you won’t have to wait in line or worry about something being sold out,” she says.

And keep the weather in mind, too. “Pack layers and always bring an umbrella,” Malloy adds. “Summers tend to be quite nice, but expect more moderate temperatures.”

If You Want To Go For Holiday Festivities, Go Around Christmas

Mariel Clark, VP of home & travel digital — Discovery Inc., tells Bustle that London at Christmastime can be nice. “If you have the budget and are hoping to experience London’s world-renowned holiday festivities, you’ll want to make your travel arrangements around Christmas,” she says. “While you’ll have to brave the crowds of tourists and increased airfare and hotel pricing, you’ll be able to take full advantage of the iconic Christmas markets and charming architecture that London is known for.”

Sintra agrees about it being a festive time to see London — if you have the money. “If you love holiday cheer, December is a great time to visit — the city is lit up with Christmas lights and there are several fun holiday markets to peruse,” he says. “But median airfare is the most expensive in December at $796.”

If You Want To Spend Less, Go During The “Shoulder Season”

If you want to visit London when it’s less crowded and for less money, the shoulder season is a good option, says Malloy. “The weather can be a little unpredictable, but in general there are good deals September-November and March-April ,” she says. “A quick search on Orbitz is actually showing some really affordable airfare to the UK right now for late August, so there’s definitely still plenty of good deals out there.”

Sintra, too, thinks April's a good time to visit London. “It offers an intersection of affordability, mild temperatures (and fewer showers), and plenty of fun activities,” he says. “Median airfare can be found for under $600 and hotel rates will only set you back about $222/night (versus July when they run about $260/night).” He also points out that the famous Changing of the Guard at the Palace takes place daily starting in April, the royal parks and gardens are blossoming, and you can also celebrate England’s National Day, Feast of St. George, in Trafalgar Square in late April.

But, Sintra also recommends seeing London in the fall. “Crowds have thinned, median airfare and hotel rates are cheaper, and with festival season in full swing, there is plenty to do,” he says. “London Fashion Week is in September , the prestigious BFI London Film Festival is in October , and one of the country’s biggest annual celebrations — Guy Fawkes Night, deeply rooted in British history — takes place on November 5 .”

If You Want To Go To London On A Budget (And Spend Even Less), Go During The Off-Season

Sintra says that if you’re looking to do London on a budget and don’t mind chillier temperatures and rain, you can score great travel deals in January and February. “Median airfare prices hover at just a little less than $600 and hotel rates around $200/night,” he says. “In addition, you can score highly discounted tickets to London theatre during this time, and January offers sales at major retailers.” Not only can you find many free attractions to do in the city, but if you don’t like crowds, lines will be shorter around town, too, he adds.

Clark, too, says that before planning a trip across the pond, think about your travel budget and priorities. “If you’re part of the majority of Americans who find that traveling on a budget is more enjoyable than splurging [according to a survey on behalf of Travel Channel among 2,196 nationally representative respondents], you’ll want to plan on visiting in between holiday seasons, ideally in November , or January through March ,” she says. “That’s when prices decrease, the weather has cooled, and crowds begin to dissipate.”

Malloy also suggests going to London in January and early February . “Flights to London were really affordable at the start of the year, which is typically the low tourist season in the UK,” she says. “Airfare demand drops off a bit after the busy holiday season and demand for hotel rates haven’t yet ramped up for the spring and summer seasons.”

And, according to data that Skyscanner pulled for Bustle, January, February, October, and November are the cheapest times to fly to London, with sales frequently occurring in January and February, a Skyscanner spokesperson tells Bustle. “It’s no surprise that the further out you book travel, the more likely you are to receive a better travel deal ,” they say. “Flights booked at least five weeks in advance will frequently be lower than the yearly average while flights booked 90 days in advance are almost half if you were to book less than three days in advance.” As for the most popular months to book travel — aka Best Time To Book, BTTB — Skyscanner says it’s January and September, according to data they looked at from 2017-2019.

Judging from the above, the best time to go to London all comes down to what you want to do while you’re there — whether that means enjoying the summer weather or winter festivities — as well as your budget. As Sintra said above, “there’s never a bad time to go to London,” and the only way to find out is by going and checking it out for yourself.

The best and worst time to visit London: Choosing the optimal time for your visit

Are you planning a trip to London but wondering when you should visit? In this guide we go through, the best and worst time to visit London in detail, to help you decide when to visit. We will also go through a month by month account, as well as looking at factors like weather, crowds, and costs.

Worst time to visit London for Crowds

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If you want to avoid the crowds of tourists the worst time to visit London is June, July and August. August especially is a busy month as this coincides with school holidays.

The worst time to visit London when it comes to things like accommodation costs are usually the peak tourist months of June, July, and August. Due to the increase in people accommodation sells quite quickly, so you should expect to pay more at this time of year.

As a whole London is a pretty expensive city so any savings you can make by visiting in the quieter months like April, May, September or October, are a plus.

London is known for its unpredictable and often rainy weather. That being said there are better times of the year to visit when it comes to weather.

In our opinion the worst time to visit London when it comes to weather is January and February. The days are incredibly short, as it gets dark around 4pm. It tends to rain a lot and temperatures average between 4 and 9 degrees Celsius. It can sometimes snow in London during these months although it is rare.

Due to the adverse weather in winter especially some tourist attractions may close. So this is something to keep in mind.

If you aren’t a fan of the heat July and August can be the worst time to visit London. It’s not unheard of for temperatures to hit over 30 degrees Celsius. London isn’t always equipped for this heat, and not everything is air conditioned. Some tube lines for example get incredibly warm and it can become unbearable.

School holidays can be a difficult time to visit London as it does get incredibly busy, with kids and parents trying to make the most of their time together. August is when the summer holidays usually take place and this is by far the busiest time to visit.

There are often half term breaks in February, May, and October, although exact dates vary year by year.

January is probably the quietest time to visit London as a tourist. It’s one of the colder and rainier months with temperatures averaging between 4 and 9 degrees Celsius.

January is also one of the darker months in London. The sun tends to rise just before 8am, and sets at around 4.30pm depending on which part of the month you are in. Earlier sunsets also mean that some attractions may close early in comparison to the summer months.

On the plus side, tourist numbers are down, which also means prices for accommodation are better now than any other time of the year.

Overall January is the best time to visit London if you want a quiet visit, where you are planning to spend a lot of time indoors at museums for example.

However January is the worst time to visit London if you want to explore the outdoors, visit the parks, and just generally stay warm and dry.

February is another quiet month in London when it comes to tourism. The weather can still be incredibly dreary with a good chance of rain. Temperatures are similar to January with a low of 4 and a high of 9 degrees Celsius.

The days are starting to get a little brighter but only just, in comparison to January. Sunrise is around 7.30am and sunset is closer to 5pm in the evening.

Accommodation is cheaper, but you also have the added issues of attractions closing due to adverse weather.

February coincides with Valentine’s Day so if you are around on the 14th make sure you checkout some of the romantic events in the city and book restaurants in advance.

Overall February is the best time to visit London if you are looking for a romantic break, and want to enjoy the pubs and restaurants of the city.

However February is the worst time to visit London if you are hoping to get outdoors and enjoy the parks in the city.

March is when the first signs of Spring start to appear in London. The weather can still be a little cold, with temperatures averaging between 6 and 12 degrees Celsius.

Days are much brighter and the clocks go forward in the UK towards the end of March.

Easter can sometimes fall in March depending on the year, so keep this in mind if you are planning on visiting at this time.

March is the best time to visit London if you want better weather, but still want to visit in the off season.

March is the worst time to visit London again if you are planning on spending long days travelling around the city or sitting in parks.

April is really when London starts to break free from the shackles of winter. The days are starting to get longer with sunrise at around 6.30am and sunset at about 7.30pm.

The weather really warms up too with temperatures averaging between 7 and 15 degrees Celsius.

Tourist numbers are rising but still are not at the peak, so accommodation costs are still lowish, and the crowds aren’t as heavy as in other months. There is a good chance Easter may fall in April, which of course does mean more tourists over this period though.

One of the nice things about April is that the city comes into bloom with flowers brightening up the streets and parks.

April is the best time to visit London if you want the visit London before tourist season kicks in properly.

However April is the worst time to visit London if you want clear blue skies and warm days. The weather is pretty unpredictable and April showers are a real thing!

May is one of the more pleasant times of year to visit London particularly when it comes to the weather. Days are brighter for longer, and temperatures average somewhere between 10 and 18 degrees Celsius.

It’s perfect weather for walking around places like Hyde Park, or visiting some of the markets in the city. The RHS Chelsea Flower Show happens in May which is a must for nature lovers, and as a whole the city feels brighter and prettier.

With the warmer weather comes an increase in tourists so make sure you book accommodation well in advance to get the best prices. There are also 2 Bank Holidays (Public Holidays) in London in May so it may get busy around these times.

May is the best time to visit London if you are looking to spend time outdoors, and want to see the city come alive.

However it is the worst time to visit London if you are looking for a cheap stay, and minimal tourists.

June is when London really starts to warm up. Temperatures range from 13 to 21 degrees Celsius although it can often be much warmer.

June is peak tourist season in London, so this is something you need to keep in mind when visiting. Hotel prices go up, crowds increase, which in turn means longer queues.

Pride events usually take place in London in June, and you will see a shift in atmosphere over the city. The days are longer and people are much more relaxed. Alfresco dining and picnics in the park are popular at this time of year too.

Overall this is the best time to visit London if you are hoping for decent weather, right before tourist season hits its peak.

However June is the worst time to visit London if you want cheap accommodation.

July is one of the warmest months in London which is great if you are trying to avoid the rain and misery of winter. Temperatures start to heat up and average at around 25 degrees Celsius, although there are days when it can exceed this.

The heat in the city can sometimes be problematic particularly if you are on the Tube, and it can often feel warm and sweaty.

There are several festivals in the city in July such as Pride, and the RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival. Sport lovers will also be pleased to know Wimbledon is held in July, and the whole city goes tennis crazy.

July is a very busy month in London so expect an increase in accommodation costs, and more crowds.

Overall July is a good time to visit London if you want to take advantage of the warm weather. There is still a good chance of rain (it is London after all) but at least it isn’t freezing.

July is the worst time to visit London if you want cheaper accommodation and less crowds. You need to book tours and restaurants in advance to avoid missing out.

August again is one of the warmest months in London, so it’s great if you want to make the most of long hot days. Temperatures range from 13-25 degrees Celsius, but it is not unusual for a few days of 30 degrees plus.

August is also when the school holidays fall in the UK and most of Europe. This means that tourist numbers are incredibly high. It’s also probably one of the most expensive months when it comes to looking for accommodation in London.

There are tons of quirky festivals that fall in August. One of the biggest though is of course the Notting Hill Carnival . But you also have things like the BBC Proms, and Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre with a number of shows. London is famous for its festivals and August is one of the best months to experience them.

August is the best time to visit London if you are travelling with kids, or you want to experience the city at its liveliest. It’s also great for those wanting to attend one of the festivals in the city.

However it is the worst time to visit London if you aren’t travelling with kids, as the crowds are huge. Expect to wait in line for tourist attractions and restaurants.

September is when London gradually starts to calm down after the peak summer months. Kids start to return to school, and the hot summer days slowly turn cooler.

There is still a lot happening in London in September as people try to make the most of the last few weeks of summer. The first half of September is still incredibly busy, but tourist numbers slowly dwindle towards the end of the month.

The temperatures in London in September hits an average peak of 20 degrees Celsius. That being said you do get some random hot days in September almost like a final goodbye to summer.

September is the best time to visit London if you still want to experience the city at its peak but with less tourists. It’s also a good time of year to visit the parks and gardens, and have some final moments of alfresco dining.

It is however the worst time to visit London if you want super hot days, and great deals on accommodation.

October is when you really start to notice the cooler weather in London. The leaves start turning orange, and it’s a nice time of year for autumnal walks. If you dress appropriately it can be a lovely time of year to visit.

October sees average temperatures of 10 to 16 degrees Celsius. There are plenty of Halloween style activities across the city, as people start getting cosy for the winter months.

Rain is more likely in October than the summer months, so again this is something to keep in mind when packing for your trip. On the plus side tourist numbers start to drop in comparison to the summer months.

Overall October is a good time to visit London if you are ok with unpredictable weather, and slightly darker evenings. Accommodation is also cheaper.

However it is the worst time to visit London if you are expecting sunshine all the time.

November sees the nights in London start to get darker. The clocks usually change at the end of October which means earlier sunsets for November. This does mean shorter days when it comes to exploring.

Temperatures start to drop and average between 7 and 12 degrees Celsius. It can also be an incredibly rainy month.

Tourist numbers drop at this time of year too, which means less queues and better deals on hotel rooms.

The highlight in November is Bonfire Night where you will be treated to a city fireworks display in celebration. Towards the end of the month Christmas displays start to come out, and the Christmas markets open.

November is the best time to visit London if you want to celebrate bonfire night, or get in on the Christmas action early.

However it is the worst time to visit London if you are wanting long bright days and sunshine.

December is pretty dreary in London when it comes to weather. That being said though the city transforms into a bit of a magical Christmas wonderland. There are pop up ice rinks, and several different Christmas Markets dotted around the city.

Temperatures range between 5 and 9 degrees Celsius, so you do need to wrap up warm. It’s also important to acknowledge that some attractions may be closed over in December due to adverse weather.

December is the best time to visit London if you want to do Christmas shopping or just enjoy the festivities in the city.

However it is the worst time of year to visit London if you are expecting long days and sunshine.

Hopefully you have found this article useful when planning your trip to London. Just to give you a final recap in our opinion and experience these are the best and worst times to visit London.

Overall the best time to visit London is May or the middle of September onwards. You still get some pretty decent weather, but there are less tourists then in the summer months. This also means there is a chance of securing a good deal when it comes to accommodation.

The worst time to visit London is in July and August. These are the busiest months in the city, which means that accommodation costs are high, and you will find yourself lining up for things like attractions and restaurants.

The months of January and February in our opinion is also the worst time to visit London. The weather is grim, the days are short, and you should expect a lot of rain.

But on the plus side, you will always find something to do in London no matter what time of year it is. In fact we have some helpful itineraries that you can click below:

One week in London

5 days in London

Instagrammable spots in London

Happy Travels!

Wanderlust and Life is a blog for those that love to travel.

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The Best Time to Visit London

London › When To Go Updated: March 24, 2023 By Santorini Dave

• London – Where to Stay
• Best Hotels in London
• Best Hotels for Families in London

What is the best time of year to visit London?

• London Hotel Map

My favorite time to visit London is from May to September in the late spring and summer months. During these months, the weather is typically mild to warm, with temperatures ranging from 50°F (10°C) to 75°F (24°C), and there is more sunshine than during other times of the year.

Visiting London during this period allows you to enjoy outdoor attractions, parks, and events. However, the city can be quite crowded, especially during July and August when many tourists visit.

The shoulder seasons of spring (April to early May) and fall (late September to October) can also be a great time to visit London. During these months, the weather is generally mild and pleasant, and tourist numbers are lower than during the peak season. Prices for accommodations and activities may be more affordable, and there is still plenty of opportunity for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

The off-peak season, which runs from November to March, offers fewer crowds, shorter lines at popular attractions, and lower prices for accommodations. However, the weather during this time will be colder and wetter, with temperatures ranging from 35°F (2°C) to 50°F (10°C). If you don’t mind the colder weather and some rain, the off-peak season can be an excellent time to explore the city’s attractions and museums without the large tourist crowds.

Weather : The most pleasant weather in London is typically from late spring to early fall, specifically from May to September. During these months, the temperatures are mild to warm, ranging from 50°F (10°C) to 75°F (24°C). This is an excellent time to enjoy parks and outdoor sightseeing and events.

Shopping : London is known for its shopping opportunities year-round, but the best shopping deals can be found during the two major sales seasons: the winter sales, which usually start on Boxing Day (December 26) and run through January, and the summer sales, which typically take place from late June to mid-July. During these periods, you can find significant discounts at many shops and boutiques.

Honeymoon : If you’re planning a romantic honeymoon, consider visiting London during the late spring (May to June) or early fall (September). The weather is mild and pleasant, making it perfect for strolling through parks, enjoying outdoor dining, and taking in the city’s iconic sights. These periods are also slightly less crowded than the peak summer months.

Avoiding crowds : To avoid the largest crowds, visit London during the off-peak season, which typically runs from November to March. During this time, you can expect fewer tourists, shorter lines at popular attractions, and lower prices for accommodations.

• Best Time to Book London Hotels : London is a busy year-round destination. Try to book the Best London Hotels and the Best London Hotels for Families 4 to 6 months in advance.
• Best Time to See the Royal Sites : Summer is your best bet for a chance to see all things royal in London, as many residences only open to the public while the occupants are away on holiday. The State Rooms at Buckingham Palace are available to tour in late July through September, Kew Palace is closed during the winter months, and Clarence House (home to the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall) only opens to the public in August – the sole month of the year in which all sites are tourable. Buckingham Palace’s Changing of the Guard happens daily from April through July, and on alternate days for the remainder of the year, if weather allows. June brings the pomp and pageantry of Trooping the Colour – the Queen’s birthday parade and annual regimental review – as well as the chance to hobnob with the aristocratic crowd at Royal Ascot.
• Best Time for Shows & Theatre : Tickets to West End shows are easiest to come by during the January/February tourism lull, and many can be found at deep discount during this time through the annual GILT (Get Into London Theatre) promotion. August is a bit of a mixed bag: theatre-going families can score free children’s tickets during London Theatre’s Kids Week, but many smaller shows and comedy acts have packed up and headed north this month for Edinburgh’s annual Fringe Festival. These shows will be back, along with new acts straight from The Fringe, to usher in the new theatre season in September.
• Best Time for Kids and Families : London is a great city to visit with kids, and it can be surprisingly affordable given that there are loads of free museums and galleries and getting around is easy and inexpensive – kids under 11 travel free on buses and the Tube. Every August, London Theatre’s Kids Week offers one free child’s ticket for every adult ticket purchased for many of the West End’s top shows – along with backstage tours, workshops, and actor Q&A’s to amuse and enlighten budding thespians. (Kids Week tickets go on sale in June, and the popular shows sell out quickly, so plan in advance.) Summer’s warm weather is perfect for burning off excess energy in London’s parks and playgrounds, but expect family-friendly attractions to be busiest when school’s out – not only during summer, but around Christmas and Easter as well, and at the half-term breaks that happen in February, May, and October. If your family can travel in the spring or the fall, you’ll hit the sweet spot where the weather is pleasant and prices aren’t sky-high. The charm of Christmas in London can be magical for a child, but the seasonal crowds can be tough to manage with small ones and strollers.
• Best Time for Museums and Galleries : London’s museums and galleries are quietest during the January and February dip in tourism – they won’t be empty, but you’re likely to avoid lines and large crowds. The week between Christmas and New Years can be surprisingly sleepy as well. Expect family-friendly attractions (Natural History Museum, Science Museum, London Transport Museum, etc.) to be at their busiest when kids are out of school for summer, around major holidays, and during February, May, and October’s half-term breaks. It’s worth noting that many museums and galleries offer later visiting hours at least once a week, giving night owls a chance for a (relatively) quiet visit once the daytime crowds have gone.
• Best Time for Christmas Activities : Christmas comes early to London, providing ample opportunity to enjoy the seasonal festivities. Most store displays, holiday markets, and skating rinks are up and open for business by mid-November. The grand tree in Trafalgar Square is lit during the first week of December, and Christmas plays and pantomimes are performed throughout that month into early January. Many museums and attractions are closed from 24-26 December (and everything, including public transportation, shuts down on Christmas Day), so sightseers would do best to plan trips before or after this time. Boxing Day sales bring massive crowds out to the shops during the week between Christmas and New Years, but museums and galleries remain relatively quiet. Expect lights, displays, and markets to stay up through early January.

London Weather by Month

London Events and Festivals by Month

London events in january.

• London’s New Year’s Day Parade – Huge American-style street parade from Piccadilly to Parliament Square, noon on January 1st.
• London International Mime Festival – Much more than mimes, a celebration of circus and performance art, puppetry, and shadow plays at various venues across central London.
• London Theatre New Year Sale – Deeply discounted tickets for more than 65 top London shows for performances throughout January and February. Tickets typically go on sale in December.

London Events in February

• Chinese New Year Celebration – The largest outside of Asia, with lion dances, a parade through the West End, and cultural entertainment in Trafalgar Square, Chinatown, and Shaftesbury Avenue.
• London Fashion Week – The fashion industry converges on Somerset House in central London, where the best designers in the world show off their fall collections in a week of invitation-only exhibitions and parties.

London Events in March

• BFI Flare: London LGBT Film Festival – The British Film Institute’s celebration of queer cinema, showcasing over 50 critically acclaimed international films at BFI Southbank.
• The University Boat Race – 250,000 spectators line the banks of the Thames from Putney to the Chiswick Bridge to view the annual boat race between Oxford and Cambridge Universities. Takes place in late March or early April.

London Events in April

• London Marathon – Traffic snarls and onlookers cheer as 36,000 runners make the trek along the Thames from Blackheath/Greenwich to the Mall in St. James Park.

London Events in May

• Chelsea Flower Show – The horticultural equivalent of London Fashion Week. Display gardens, botanical exhibits, and 157,000 visitors on the grounds of the Royal Hospital in Chelsea.

London Events in June

• Royal Academy Summer Exhibition – Artwork from honored and emerging artists alike is showcased at Burlington House in Piccadilly during the world’s largest open submission art exhibition. (June – August)
• Trooping the Colour – It’s pageantry galore as the Queen inspects her troops and leads them down The Mall from Horse Guard’s Parade to Buckingham Palace in her annual birthday march.
• Royal Ascot – Royals and riffraff alike dress up, drink champagne, and play the ponies at this crème de la crème of British horseracing events.
• Taste of London – Sample the wares from some of London’s best restaurants and watch cooking demonstrations at this popular food and wine festival in Regents Park.
• Open Garden Squares Weekend – Over 300 of London’s most secret and spectacular gardens open to the public for one weekend only.
• The Wimbledon Championships – Two-week-long international grand slam tennis tournament in late June and early July. Takes place at the All England Club in Wimbledon (40 minutes by train from central London).

London Events in July

• Royal Academy Summer Exhibition – See June.
• The Wimbledon Championships – See June.
• Hampton Court Palace Flower Show – Display gardens and horticultural workshops abound at the world’s largest annual flower show in southwest London.
• BBC Proms – Classical music fans pack Royal Albert Hall during this eight week festival of orchestral music, featuring daily concerts and £5 tickets for those “prommers” who are willing to forgo a seat. (July — September)
• Pride in London – Weeklong celebration of all things GLBT, culminating in a massive parade through central London, from Baker Street to Trafalgar Square. Party in the square, and after-party in Soho.

London Events in August

• BBC Proms – See July.
• Notting Hill Carnival – Europe’s biggest street festival is a two-day Caribbean party with live music, food, spectacular floats and costumes, and more than a million revelers. Taking place over August Bank Holiday weekend in W10, west London.

London Events in September

• Totally Thames (The Mayor’s Thames Festival) – A month-long arts and cultural celebration of, on, and around the River Thames, with colorful regattas, river-races, and community events.
• Open City London – An architecture and design event weekend, in which hundreds of usually off-limit historic buildings and architecturally important sites are opened to the public for touring. Free and taking place across London, with some sites requiring advanced registration.
• London Fashion Week – The fashion industry converges on Somerset House in central London, where the best designers in the world show off their spring collections in a week of invitation-only exhibitions and parties.

London Events in October

• Frieze Fair – Browse or buy works by renowned and emerging artists at two massive art fairs taking place in Regents Park: find contemporary pieces at Frieze London, and ancient through mid-century works at Frieze Masters.
• BFI London Film Festival – The British Film Institute’s annual fall celebration of cinema, showing hundreds of critically acclaimed international works and Hollywood premiers at BFI Southbank and IMAX theatres.
• Dance Umbrella – International two week-long dance festival, celebrating 21st-century choreography from across the world at various London venues.
• Diwali on the Square – Thousands pack Trafalgar square to celebrate the festival of lights with live music and dance, food and market stalls, and family-friendly activities.

London Events in November

• Guy Fawkes Night/Bonfire Night – Annual remembrance of the infamous Gunpowder Plot of 1605, with bonfires and fireworks across London. Alexandra Palace and Battersea Park have the grandest displays. Celebrated on and around 5 November, with the largest events occurring over the nearest weekend.
• The Lord Mayor’s Show – A flotilla down the Thames and a fireworks display over it bookend this grand street parade and carnival in honor of the year’s newly elected Lord Mayor of London. Takes place the 2nd Saturday in November.
• Remembrance Sunday – The heroes and victims of war are honored on the 2nd Sunday in November with a parade, memorial concerts, and a royal ceremony at the Cenotaph in Whitehall.
• EFG London Jazz Festival – Ten-day celebration of vocal and instrumental jazz music, featuring hundreds of British and international acts at venues across London. Some events are free, and many are family-friendly.
• Taste of London Winter – Sample the wares from some of London’s best restaurants and watch cooking demonstrations at this popular food and wine festival at Tobacco Dock in Regents Park.
• Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park – Get into the Christmas spirit with festive food, drink, circus shows, ice skating, fairground rides, and of course, Santa Claus. Mid-November through New Years.

London Events in December

• Christmas Markets – Peruse foodie gifts and hand-crafted items at the seasonal markets that set up all around London from late November through the New Year, the most popular being at Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park and near the London Eye in South Bank.
• Trafalgar Square Christmas Tree – A massive 20 meter Norway spruce is an iconic backdrop for a month of caroling and Christmas festivities. The tree lighting ceremony is held on the first Thursday in November, and the tree remains up through 6 January.
• Ice Skating Rinks – Celebrate the season on skates! Rinks at the Natural History Museum and Hyde Park are the largest. Those at Somerset House, the Tower of London, Hampton Court, and Kew Gardens are your best bets for a seasonal skate in an iconic setting.
• New Year’s Eve Fireworks – Tens of thousands of spectators gather on the banks of the Thames to watch this spectacular display near the London Eye. Buy tickets in advance to secure a spot with the best views of this popular year-end celebration.

About Santorini Dave

Hi there! We are planning to stay in the UK in May and June, followed by Ireland in July. Our rough plans are to Airbnb a place in England in May, then Scotland in June, and somewhere near Dublin for the month of July. Is this a good time of year to visit these locations? We really want to show our four kids, ages 4-14, the historical sites, but would like to find a place outside of the big cities. Our thought is, we want to expose our kiddos to the culture and really get feel for the country, not just hit the tourist attractions. Ideally, the location would be a place with a few cafes and pubs within walkable distance and beautiful historic buildings, but also easily commutable to the big cities. Do you have any recommendations for where we look at rental homes? Thank you!

This is great time to visit those three destinations. For accommodations look through Booking.com.

Our Disney cruise will arrive Dover on Aug. 18, we will spend 7 days in London. Is it possible to visit both London and the English countryside in one week?

We’ll have 2 kids (ages 8 and 6) and one more family ( 2 adults and 3 kids, age 9, 8 & 6 ) with us. The 9 of us love live theatre. Kids Week hasn’t released any new schedule for this year on their website yet.

Yes, one week to explore both London and some of the English countryside is doable. 4 days in London and then 3 days in the countryside would be a good itinerary. It’s 1 hour and 4 minutes by train from Dover to St Pancras train station, so that part of the journey shouldn’t be a concern.

Hi My wife and I plus our 3 year old son plan to be in London and later drive up to Edinburgh in late December and maybe visit a few towns along the way. What towns will be worth the visit along the way? What will the drive be like?

Depends on how much time you have and what you want to see. Driving from London to Edinburgh direct takes around 7 hours and can be very tiring, since the motorways are busy and the most direct route – along the A1 – is not particularly picturesque. However, if you’re happy to do the journey over several days, there are several interesting places to check out along the way. You can take the M11 to Cambridge (60-90 minutes drive) – a beautiful little historic university town with centuries-old colleges – a good place for wandering around. From Cambridge, take the A14, the A1 and the A606 to Nottingham (around 2 hours drive), known for its Robin Hood legend (plus there’s a castle, deer park and some ancient caves to explore). From there, head back to the A1 which bypasses the industrial towns of Sheffield, Doncaster and Leeds, and then take the A64 to York (around 2 hours drive from Nottingham), an ancient walled city, where you can walk on the city walls, have a look at the local castle, check out vintage trains at the railway museum and more. From York, it’s around 4 hours drive to Edinburgh, stopping in the historic city of Durham along the way; you can also stop in Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, half an hour north of Durham. Newcastle is a busy university city, and yes, there’s a castle, an open-air museum of historic life, and a glitzy Millennium Bridge to have a look at. North of Newcastle, you can either take the A1 along the coast, or head inland along the A68 through the Kielder Forest Park.

Another alternative to driving from London to Edinburgh would be to take a train between the two and rent a car in Edinburgh, since there are some beautiful places an easy drive away. The daytime train from London to Edinburgh takes around 6 hours, but for a unique experience you could also take the overnight Caledonian Sleeper, and wake up in Scotland. From Edinburgh, it’s around an hour’s drive to Stirling, with its historic Stirling Castle, and about an hour and a half east to St Andrews, a pretty little coastal town, plus it’s a scenic drive along the sea if you take the A92 and then the A915.

For sightseeing in the English countryside is there much difference between seasons? We realize that beaches and park weather is best in the summer months but for walks, short hikes, historical tours, and small country villages is there a preferred time to tour the interior England? Thanks, much.

The good news is, sightseeing in the English countryside can be done at any time of year, and this goes for walks, short hikes, historical tours, and more. The bad news is, the weather’s been very unpredictable in recent years, so it’s hard to say precisely when is the best time to tour the English countryside. Summer is indeed best for beaches, but there haven been cold and rainy summers in England as well, with perhaps a couple of weeks’ heatwave. I’d say that spring, early summer, plus September and October are the best times to be touring the countryside, because the weather should be mild (though you have to be prepared for rain at any time of year) and pleasant. Plus, outside peak tourist season (Christmas/New Year plus July and August), prices are more affordable and accommodation is not booked up months in advance. November and February can be rainy and usually get some snow in December or January, which typically causes chaos on the roads for a few days, so it might be best to avoid the winter months. That said, England has had unseasonably early spring weather in February as well as warm and sunny Novembers, so it’s a matter of luck!

Hi there, I am planning for holiday to London during mid December with a 7 year old kid, is it alright or too cold to go London? Thank you. Freda Yew

It will be chilly or wet, or both. But London has so much to see that’s indoors and kid-friendly that you can have a great trip even when there’s bad weather. The closer to Christmas you travel the busier the city will get.

I’m planning a summer trip with my twin 7yr boys to London, which time would be better to visit – mid-June or late July? You mentioned in an earlier post that June is good since British kids are still in school, but I read that Buckingham palace only open to public late July thru August, is it worth the wait to see the inside?

A question on safety – is London fairly safe for a single mom traveling with 2 young kids?

Thank you so much for this forum and for taking the time to answer questions.

I would recommend visiting in mid-June rather than late July. The weather tends to be more pleasant (less chance of a heatwave), prices tend to be lower because it’s just before peak visitor season, and child-friendly attractions such as the London Eye, Natural History Museum, and Science Museum tend to be less crowded.

It’s true that the State Rooms at Buckingham Palace are only open to the public from late July to the end of August, because that’s when the Queen is usually at one of her residences in Scotland. And the rooms are rather sumptuous and interesting to see if you want to get a taste for how the Royals live.

However, if you come visit in June, you can visit Windsor Castle instead; it’s an even bigger Royal palace, and if Buckingham Palace is Her Majesty’s London ‘office’, Windsor Castle is her actual home. Windsor Castle is half an hour’s train ride from central London (London Paddington to Windsor & Eton Riverside station), and the State Rooms there are just as sumptuous as those at Buckingham Palace and are open year-round. Windsor Castle is well geared towards family visits; their free family multimedia tour is aimed at kids aged 7-11 and they have a family activity trail. Also, you can combine a day trip from London to Windsor Castle with a visit to nearby Legoland Windsor if your sons are into Lego and theme parks; if you do, book tickets online in advance to save money off entry fees.

Coming to London in June doesn’t mean not visiting Buckingham Palace at all; you can still go there to watch the pomp and ceremony of the Changing of the Guard which typically happens every morning in summer. Check out this site for tips on where best to watch the band and cavalry if you’re visiting with kids.

Central London is perfectly safe for a single mother travelling with kids. Like any big city, sensible precautions apply. In crowded places there is occasional pickpocketing, and it’s best to avoid the London Underground (and public transport in general) during the 4.30-6.30pm rush hour because it gets very crowded.

I suggest staying in the Covent Garden/ Leicester Square/ Soho area, since it’s super-central, with good public transport connections, very walkable, and close to kid-friendly attractions such as the London Transport Museum . There are also usually street performances by the Covent Garden Market, and you’d be in the heart of Theatreland in case you want to take your sons to see a musical: check out http://www.londontheatre.co.uk .

Hi, I am going to London in this 22 December. We (couple) will be staying about 11 days in England. Thinking of Scotland as well. Any suggestions where to visit in England except Scotland and London? How many days is enough to visits in London? Thanks Nic

You can see a lot in 11 days. I suggest allowing four days in Scotland, basing your self in Edinburgh, the beautiful capital, and maybe spending two days there and two days exploring outside the capital.

That leaves you with a week for London and around. There is a lot to see in London, and you can fill an entire week with seeing the museums, art galleries and other sights, but it’s also possible to see London’s highlights in around four days, then perhaps spend a day visiting Oxford – both university towns have gorgeous, centuries-old architecture and wandering the streets there is a real pleasure. You can also hire a car and drive to the Cotswolds for a quintessential old England experience – these are some of the UK’s most picturesque little villages, with thatched-roofed cottages, tea rooms and beautiful and undemanding walks in the countryside around them. Since you’ll be in the UK over Christmas, bear in mind that you need to book accommodation as far in advance as possible, as it’s a really popular time to visit. Also, all attractions are closed on Christmas Day; some are closed on Boxing Day (December 26th) as well. But at the same time, London in particular is really festive, with several Christmas markets and other events.

Here’s just a rough possible itinerary for your 11 days:

Day 1. Base yourself somewhere central, such as Covent Garden/Leicester Square/Soho area, as it’s as central as it gets, really walkable and with really good transport connections to other parts of the city. Spend the day walking around, checking out the 19th century covered market, the National Gallery, Trafalgar Square and other nearby attractions.

Day 2. Many of London’s big attractions – the London Eye, Houses of Parliament, St Paul’s Cathedral, the Shard, the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, Tate Modern – are all found along the River Thames. You have two options: cross the pedestrian bridge from Embankment to South Bank, and spend the day wandering the pedestrian walkway along the Thames, with numerous restaurants and attractions along the way, or get a day pass for one of the boat tours that depart from Westminster pier and hop off when you reach an attraction that interests you. Taking a boat tour as far east as Greenwich is a fun thing to do, as it takes you through London’s changing landscapes – from the high-rises of the City, past the 19th century warehouses dating back to London’s age as Britain’s most important port, past the gleaming new skyscrapers of Canary Wharf, London’s other business district, and up to tranquil Greenwich, where you find one of London’s largest parks, the Royal Observatory and Britain’s last tea clipper, the Cutty Sark, a boat turned into a quirky museum. Boats are enclosed and run year-round, so boat tours at this time of year are fine as long as you wrap up warm. It’s well worth having a look at the Christmas Market at Tate Modern, London Bridge Christmas Market, and there are usually all sorts of festive things happening at the Southbank Centre, at the end of the pedestrian bridge.

Day 3. Hire a car and drive out to Oxford. It’s one of England’s two grand university towns; many famous writers went to university here and the main attractions here are the beautiful, centuries-old colleges. Spend the day walking around and checking out Christ Church College, some of the other colleges, the Bodleian Library, and the Radcliffe Camera, climb up the tower of St Mary’s Church for the views, and maybe have a drink at the Eagle and Child, the old pub where Tolkien, CS Lewis and other famous literary figures used to drink.

Day 4. On Christmas Day, there is very little traffic and a pleasure to drive. Head out to the Cotswolds, the countryside filled with picturesque villages. Some of the prettiest include Bourton-on-the-Water, Chipping Norton, Stow-on-the-Wold, and Chipping Campden – all narrow lanes, pretty, traditional houses, tearooms and pubs serving traditional British food, and a tranquil atmosphere. There are plenty of places to stay in the villages, from intimate B&Bs to centuries-old coaching inns. Spending Christmas in a luxury hotel such as Dormy House, Cowley Manor, or the Foxhill Manor is pretty special.

Day 5. Drive back to London. Visit one or two attractions along the Thames (check websites to see which ones are open), or try to get a bargain at Selfridge’s, one of London’s most famous department stores. On Boxing Day, most restaurants are open and you could also catch a show or a musical at one of West End’s many theatres; check to see what’s playing .

Day 6. Walk to Buckingham Palace – the Queen’s London home – to have a look at it from the outside. Check the website to see if the Changing of the Guard is happening that day; it doesn’t take place every day, but when it does, it happens at 11am and is a fun spectacle with music and marching. Go and visit the British Museum with its priceless treasures, or possibly the Victoria & Albert Museum in South Kensington, before having a look at Harrods, London’s flagship department store, or perhaps the independent designer shops along Carnaby Street in Soho.

Day 7. Fly to Edinburgh. Stay somewhere nice and central, such as off the Royal Mile – the street connecting Edinburgh Castle with the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Spend the day exploring Edinburgh. The central part of the city is very walkable, so you can have a look at the historic landmarks along the Royal Mile, visit Edinburgh Castle and Palace of Holyroodhouse , check out the excellent National Museum of Scotland and go shopping along Prince’s Street.

Day 8. Hire a car and drive west to Stirling. Scotland is famous for its castles and Stirling Castle is one of the biggest, most beautiful and most historically important. Spend the night in Stirling; there are several good, centrally located hotels and the historic heart of the town is very compact.

Day 9. Drive west to Loch Lomond, one of Scotland’s largest lakes and part of the Trossachs National Park. The surrounding countryside and oak woodlands are beautiful and there are some good walking trails, including the Luss Heritage Trail that passes through the ancient village of Luss. There are numerous atmospheric hotels around the lake, including former coaching inns and country manors, or else you can return to Edinburgh and continue your exploration of Scotland’ capital.

Day 10. In Edinburgh, Wisit Leith, a quirky seaside neighbourhood and go aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia , formerly used by Her Majesty the Queen. If you like your whiskies, there are several whisky-tasting places in Edinburgh, such as the Scotch Whisky Experience where you can try some of Scotland’s best tipples. Fly back to London because the fireworks display on New Year’s Eve is fantastic and well worth seeing in person.

Day 11. On January 1, very few attractions are open; it’s a good time to relax after the New Year’s festivities.

Super informative site. Thank you.

Hoping to visit London in September with my daughter.

Great. Thanks so much.

Hi we are looking at heading over to London April 11-22 then taking the train to Paris till the 26. We have three kids 10, 7, 5. Or do you think October 24-November 8 would be a better time to visit? Also is 10 days too much time in London? Angela

April and October/November can be equally good times to visit because British weather is unpredictable. It’s possible that we’ll have some warm and sunny days in April, and it’s also possible that we’ll have some unseasonably warm days in late October. It’s equally possible that it’ll rain either in April or October; the advantage of a spring visit is that you’ll have a lot more daylight, which is handy for sightseeing, especially if you’re going to be outdoors.

There is plenty to do in London, particularly with children, and there’s certainly enough to keep you occupied for 10 days. Below I’m just going to give you a brief outline of what you can do for 10 days:

Day 1: A good way to get a feel for London is to take a boat tour, and that’s something you can do regardless of the weather. City Cruises depart from the Westminster pier in central London, and on the way you get to see the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, the London Eye, St Paul’s Cathedral, the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, Tate Modern, the Shard and other attractions. Some of the boats go all the way east to Greenwich, and you can get off and visit different attractions along the way. For one day, I recommend going on the London Eye – you get a great view of London from above, even if it’s cloudy (book online for cheaper prices). Next to the London Eye is the London Dungeon , which is a fun, actor-led introduction to London’s gruesome history with special effects, creepy sets, and a ride at the end. There isn’t an age restriction as such, so it depends on whether your kids are easily spooked. Nearby is the Sea Life Aquarium which is good for rainy days; it’s well-designed, with fish and sea creatures from many different habitats. Again, there are places to eat nearby.

Day 2: You can take the boat again, and get off at the Tate Modern if you’re into art: it’s the UK’s biggest contemporary art museum. There are also hands-on games for kids and they get a chance to create their own artistic masterpieces. You can then take the boat one more stop to the Tower of London (www.hrp.org.uk/tower-of-london) – a royal fortress that’s the home of Crown Jewels. It’s really well-geared towards family exploration: there’s the Time Explorer app for kids that you can download, there are guides for kids and plenty of hidden nooks to explore. Right next door is Tower Bridge , with its twin towers and a glass-bottomed walkway high above river. Across the bridge is the H.M.S. Belfast , a former Royal Navy boat that you can explore. From Tower Bridge, it’s a 10-minute walk to London Bridge, where you can go up the Shard , London’s tallest skyscraper. It helps if the weather is nice, since you get amazing views of London from the viewing platform (book online for discounts). There is some excellent street food at Borough Market nearby.

Day 3: Spend a day around the Covent Garden/Leicester Square area. There is usually some street theatre happening around the covered market area in Covent Garden proper, and there’s the excellent London Transport Museum nearby: it’s great for kids, with vintage buses to explore and plenty of hands-on stuff. If you want to take it easy, there are several cinemas as Leicester Square, and if you’re interested in art, the excellent National Gallery and the National Portrait Gallery are both nearby. The National Gallery has occasional events for kids, and the I’ve taken friends’ kids to the National Portrait Gallery and they’re really enjoyed looking at the portraits of British famous people. There are plenty of places to eat in the neighbourhood and if you’re into musicals, you can catch a show at one of the many theatres in the area; check what’s on ; there are matinee shows, which is handy for families with younger kids.

Day 4: Head over to Buckingham Palace in the morning; every other day there’s the Changing of the Guard (check online which day it’ll be) at 11.30am. There’s marching and music and it’s a fun spectacle, so get there at least half an hour before to get a good viewing spot. Buckingham Palace is a short walk from Hyde Park, London’s biggest green space. You could also catch the tube to Russell Square and visit the British Museum with its incredible collection of treasures from around the world.

Day 5: If it’s a rainy day, or if your kids are Harry Potter fans, you can take them to the Warner Brothers Studios in Leaveseden to see the Harry Potter movie sets and props. It’s around 20 miles north of London, so you need to take a train from London Euston to Watford Junction, and take a shuttle to the studios from there. A visit will take up a good part of your day.

Day 6: Visit the excellent Natural History Museum and the Science Museum . They are next door to each other in South Kensington (near the tube station). The Natural History Museum has an excellent dinosaur room and lots of things to explore, and the Science Museum has lots of interactive displays for kids and adults alike; you can easily spend the whole day visiting the two. Try to go on a weekday to avoid crowds. There are restaurants nearby.

Day 7: Take the kids to Madame Tussaud’s and your pictures taken with the Royal Family, movie stars, famous musicians and other wax figures. There’s a fun ride at the end, too. From there, you can walk up through Regent’s Park to London Zoo , with its numerous exotic animals.

Day 8: Do a day trip to Windsor Castle , the Queen’s official home. You can combine that with a visit to Legoland Windsor . It’s a short train ride from London Paddington to Windsor Central Station.

Day 9: Particularly if the weather is good, you can do a day trip to Kew Gardens (www.kew.org), London’s biggest botanical gardens. It’s a really tranquil space with lots of trails and a canopy walk that’s fun for kids. You’ll need to take a train from London Waterloo to Kew. You can combine that with a visit to Hampton Court Palace (www.hrp.org.uk/hampton-court-palace), the palace of Henry VIII – there are lots of rooms to explore, plus a garden maze and more. It’s possible to take a bus between Kew and Hampton Court.

Day 10: Take the boat from Westminster pier all the way to Greenwich and visit the Cutty Sark (www.rmg.co.uk/cutty-sark), Britain’s last surviving tea clipper. You can climb on board and there are some hands-on exhibits for kids. It’s a nice part of London to walk around; you can walk up to the Royal Observatory (www.rmg.co.uk/royal-observatory) to have a look at the telescopes and to stand with your feet in two different hemispheres – on either side of the Greenwich Meridian Line! The Royal Naval College by the river is a good place to wander around, too.

So those are just some ideas about what you can do in London in 10 days.

Hi! My husband and I are taking a trip May 10-21, next year to London and we were wondering what we needed to see and do so we don’t feel like we’re leaving without getting our money’s worth. I know the really touristy things that are available, but we will spend most of our money on alcohol/food, and maybe a little shopping. It will also be both of our birthdays during that time (May 12 and 19), so I was wondering what places we should DEFINITELY go for our birthdays. I read somewhere though that in England, if you announce it’s your birthday expecting a free drink or dessert, it’s customary to buy everyone a round of drinks. Any truth to that? Lol. Thanks for your wonderful posts on this blog! Isabelle

Since you’ll have 11 days in London, that gives you plenty of time to see the must-see sights and if eating out and bar-hopping is your thing, you’ve come to the right place!

I suggest basing yourselves in the West End (Covent Garden/Soho/Leicester Square area), as that’s super-central and has the biggest concentration of restaurants and bars in London.

Here are just some ideas of what you can do day by day:

Day 1: Have a wander around Covent Garden and visit the National Gallery if you’re into art. Food-wise, in the Covent Garden/Soho area you’re spoiled for choice. Some of my favourite places to eat and drink include Bocca di Lupo – excellent Italian; Barrafina – busy Spanish tapas bar, great wine, Balls & Company – the most incredible meatballs and a great cocktail bar downstairs, 68 & Boston – really classy wine bar with a late-night cocktail bar upstairs serving classic cocktails, Flesh & Buns – industrial-chic basement restaurant with Taiwanese and Japanese food and great drinks, Shotgun (shotgunbbq.com) – New Orleans style cocktail bar with some really great, wood-smoked meaty dishes, especially the brisket, Palomar – amazing Middle Eastern food (but small portions, so it can really add up), and St James’ Tavern – classic English pub. If you want an over-the-top experience, check out Rules – traditional British food in London’s oldest restaurant; you have to dress up and the food is rather overpriced, but it’s all very nicely done. The Radio Rooftop Bar at the ME by Melia hotel is great – you can see some of London’s top landmarks from there, and their cocktails are very good.

If you want to do a bit of shopping, there are some quirky stores along Carnaby Street selling clothes by independent designers and gifts, while Liberty is a classy, high-end department store that’s fun to browse. Oxford Street runs along the north edge of Soho, and you’ll find high street fashions there.

Day 2: Walk along the Thames to the Houses of Parliament, and visit Westminster Abbey – England’s most impressive church where most of our kings and queens are buried and where Prince William and Kate Middleton got married. Cross Westminster Bridge and walk along the embankment to the London Eye . It’s touristy, but you do get amazing views of London from there, and if you book ahead on the website, you can have one of the capsules all to yourself and champagne to boot. If it’s a nice day and you feel like walking, you can carry on along the embankment promenade – it’s really good for people-watching. Or you can catch a boat east along the river from the pier next to the London Eye, hop off at Bankside pier for the Tate Modern – the best contemporary art gallery in the UK. You can grab lunch at the Sea Containers Restaurant at Mondrian Hotel nearby – they do really nice farm-to-table food; and the Dandelyan bar at the hotel does possibly the most interesting cocktails in London. If you carry on walking east along the embankment you’ll reach London Bridge; nearby is Borough Market – one of London’s best food markets. It’s where chefs come to shop for fresh produce and also where they have at least a dozen different food stalls (from Middle Eastern and Greek to Caribbean to cakes), so it’s another place for lunch (most stalls are open until 5pm or so). Wheatsheaf is a nice pub nearby, serving market food and real ales, while Brindisa is a quality Spanish tapas bar.

You’ve asked what you should do for your birthday. Well, if you like good food, good cocktails and great views, you should eat at one of the excellent restaurants at The Shard skyscraper. Yes, you can pay to go up to the viewing platform on the 72nd floor for London’s highest views, but you can also just have a meal either at Aqua Shard (contemporary British), Hutong (northern Chinese), Ting (Modern European) and cocktails at Gong on the 52nd floor. You can also catch a show or a musical back at the West End .

Day 3: If you’re into tacky fun, you can visit Madame Tussaud’s and have your pics taken with various movie stars and the British royal family. Then have a walk through Regent’s Park and along Regent’s Canal into Camden. Camden Market is actually several different markets, selling everything from vintage clothes to alternative gifts. But it’s also really worth going to for the awesome gourmet street food at KERB , which ranges from Vietnamese to vegan tacos to rotis to pit-cooked meats. The Hawley Arms and the Elephant’s Head are both good pubs nearby.

Day 4: Head for South Kensington and visit the Victoria & Albert Museum to check out the treasures from around the world, fashions through the ages, etc. Nearby there’s Harrods – London’s most famous department store with luxury goods, fashion and the best food hall in the city. Up the street is Harvey Nichols – more designer gear, excellent food and wine. And if you want to eat out somewhere really special (again, a birthday idea) go to Dinner by Heston – London’s top restaurant at the Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park – contemporary British cuisine by celebrity chef Heston Blumenthal; book well in advance.

Day 5: Visit Buckingham Palace and see the Changing of the Guard at 11.30am (get there early to find a good place to watch the parade). Not far is Thomas Cubitt a gastropub serving excellent fish and chips. You can also cut across Green Park to The Ritz for classic British afternoon tea – finger sandwiches, cakes, tea and even champagne in fancy surroundings.

Day 6: Visit the British Museum – Britain’s best museum with treasures from around the world. Three blocks away is Charlotte Street, a real food street, where you can get anything from Mexican street food at Wahaca and gourmet burgers and craft beers at Draft House Charlotte to ROKA Charlotte St – contemporary Japanese and Salt Yard – Spanish-Italian tapas.

Those are just a few ideas. Oh, and my personal experience of birthdays in England is that if you announce it’s your birthday, it’s the other people who buy you a drink (unless you’re hosting a party for your friends, in which case you’re expected to pay for drinks).

This is the first time that me and my daughter have traveled internationally together. I was thinking of a trip in April (9th through the 15th) during her spring break, on a budget. What suggestions do you have as to what to do on a budget for 5 days to get the most bang for the buck?

There is quite a lot you can do in London on a budget. For starters, all the major museums and art galleries in London are free (the only thing you pay for are the special exhibitions).

Here are a few suggestions on how to plan your five days.

Day 1: Take a boat from Westminster pier to Greenwich. It’s cheap and a great way to see London’s iconic buildings – the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, the London Eye, St Paul’s Cathedral, Tower of London, Tate Modern, Tower Bridge, the Shard. The boats dock at all the major attractions, so you can hop on and off as you choose. Book your tickets for the Tower of London and the London Eye online beforehand to save money. Tate Modern (contemporary art gallery) is free. It’s cheap to go up Tower Bridge. It’s not super-cheap to go up to the viewing platform of the Shard skyscraper, but you could treat your daughter to weekend brunch of weekday lunch at Aqua restaurant inside the Shard – you won’t be quite as a high, but you’ll get a terrific view and a good meal at the same time.

Day 2: You won’t have time in one day to see all the attractions along the Thames, so I suggest taking the boat again from Westminster pier to Greenwich, stopping at more sights, and having a walk around Greenwich – there are some gorgeous old buildings along the waterfront that are part of the Royal Naval College, plus you can walk through the park up to the Royal Observatory and have a look at the Meridian Line – you can stand with your feet in two different hemispheres. Before you get on the boat at Westminster, I suggest visiting Westminster Abbey – London’s grandest church where most of England’s kings and queens are buried, and where Prince William married Kate Middleton; if you get there for the 9am opening time, you beat the crowds.

Day 3: Have a walk around the Covent Garden/Leicester Square/Soho areas. Everything is close together and easily walkable, and there are plenty of inexpensive restaurants serving any kind of food you can think of. You can visit the National Gallery (London’s top art gallery), have a look around Trafalgar Square. If your daughter is into shopping, there are some quirky stores along Carnaby Street in Soho, and high street fashions along Oxford Street and Regent Street. In the evening, if you guys are into theatre or musicals, you can go to a show at one of West End’s many theatres ( check what’s on and you can book cut-price tickets online).

Day 4: Visit Buckingham Palace – the Queen’s London home. In April, the Changing of the Guard ceremony in front of the palace happens every other day at 11.30am, so check online to see if it’s on. The ceremony – music and marching – takes around 45 minutes and is free; get there early to find yourself a good spot. You can also visit the palace itself, with a number of state rooms open to the public. In the afternoon you can visit the British Museum, which is the UK’s best – it’s an incredible collection of treasures from around the world.

Day 5: You can spend the day in South Kensington. Again, if you’re into shopping, it’s well worth checking out Harrods – London’s most famous department store, with an excellent food hall. A ten-minute walk from there is the Victoria & Albert Museum, which is free and home to a huge selection of applied arts – from fashions through the ages to Asian ceramics.

Those are just some suggestions. Since you’ll be using public transport, a good way to save money is to either get Oyster cards for yourself and your daughter (that you can load with credit at any London tube station) or else use a touch credit card to tap in and out of the London tube.

Hi, We are a family of five (kids, ages 6, 8, 10 at the time of travel) are planning to take a vacation to London in June. Is this a good time to travel there in terms of the crowd? If the timing is not so great, we also have the end of September as an option. We are thinking of maybe about 10 days in London unless we run out of things to do, and perhaps a couple of days in Cambridge to visit family. How long does it take to get from London to Cambridge? What is the easiest transportation to get there? Considering the ages of our kids, what are your recommendations on must do or see while we are there? It’s probably easier for us to stay central to avoid too much walking with the kids. Do you have any recommendations on hotels that would accommdate our family and perhaps close to kids friendly restaurants? If there is a kitchen and laundry would be ideal. Should we consider visiting nearby cities or countries, or taking any tours? My oldest daughter is reading Harry Potter and would like to visit the site. How do we go about planning that? Can you give me a suggested itinerary for our visit?

Thank you so much in advance and I look forward to hearing from you.

June is a good time to visit London, in terms of weather, and also because it’s before the British school holidays, so you’ll avoid the worst of the crowds. End of September is also a good time, because the weather is still likely to be warm, and London is not quite as crowded as in the summer.

You can easily spend 10 days in London without running out of things to do, and I highly recommend a visit to Cambridge, as it’s a beautiful town with centuries-old historic buildings (plus I’m sure you’ll enjoy visiting family). It takes less than an hour to get from London to Cambridge by train from London Kings Cross station; trains are very frequent. There are also frequent trains from London Liverpool Street station, but they take longer.

It largely depends what your kids are into, but most kids enjoy the Natural History Museum (www.nhm.ac.uk) and Science Museum (www.sciencemuseum.org.uk) – there’s a lot of hands-on, cool stuff there. The British Museum is an amazing place with treasures from around the world. London Zoo is another favourite, as is the London Sea Life Aquarium . You can visit Buckingham Palace, Her Majesty’s London home, to see the Changing of the Guard which takes place at 11.30am every other morning. A good way of getting seeing London’s major landmarks is by taking a boat tour with City Cruises or Thames River Services – that way you get to see the Houses of Parliament, the Tower of London, the London Eye, St Paul’s Cathedral and other London icons as you glide along. For a bit more excitement, you can consider a speedboat trip up the Thames with Thames Rockets .

As for the main London attractions, it’s well worth going on the London Eye observation wheel for the views, or else going up to the observation platform on the 72nd floor of the Shard skyscraper for even higher views of the city. The Tower of London (more of a fortress, really), home to British kings and queens for over 700 years, is well worth a visit – you can walk the castle walls, see the priceless Royal Jewels, suits of armour and more. There are just some suggestions.

Fans of the Harry Potter movies can visit Platform 934 at London Kings Cross station. Parts of the movies were shot on location around the city (Leadenhall Market = Diagon Alley, Tower Bridge, etc), and you can do a walking tour of most of the locations with Muggle Tours . You can also visit the movie studios in Leavesden, 20 miles north of London, where most of the movies were shot. there you can check out the sets from the movies, as well as thousands of props, and your kids can ride broomsticks through green screen technology, learn about wand-making and more. Leavesden is a day trip, really; you take a train from London Euston to Watford Junction and a shuttle bus from there.

Another good day trip out of London is to Windsor, where you can visit Windsor Castle – the Queen’s official home, and also visit Legoland Windsor on the same day. Take the train from London Paddington Windsor & Eton Riverside.

As for where to stay, I suggest the Covent Garden/Leicester Square area because it’s super-central, good public transport connections, and within easy walking distance to a number of attractions. Check Booking.com which has hotels available in the area. Specify your requirements (ie a family room, or your budget, etc). The Soho Hotel is family-friendly and fun. Kid-friendly restaurants in the neighbourhood include Homeslice and Rainforest Cafe ; most restaurants are happy to accommodate families.

Hi, I’m visiting London from December 26-Jan 3, with my 12 and 17-year old boys. I’m wondering where we should stay and what we should do, as well as whether any day trips into the country would be good?

There’s plenty to do with teenagers in London, depending on your (and their) interests. Have a look through my guide to Best Things to Do in London for descriptions of top attractions.

Since you’re coming to London quite soon and also during one of the busiest times of the year, I suggest going on Booking.com as soon as possible to book your accommodation. I find it useful, since you can see which hotels/serviced apartments are available in the part of London you want to stay in, pick your price range and see the ratings left by other customers who stayed there.

Since you’re in London over Christmas and New Year, it’s worth bearing in mind that some attractions/museums will be closed on December 26 (some museums also on the 27th; check the individual websites), as well as on January 1. Public transport will be running at normal every day except New Year’s Day, when you’ll have to get around on foot or by taxi.

For easy access to many main attractions, I’d suggest staying in the Covent Garden/Soho area. It’s a compact, central, pedestrian-friendly part of London, with numerous hotels, restaurants and bars.

Since you have a week, you may consider a couple of day trips. If you want to see quaint English villages with thatched cottages, walk around narrow lanes and have tea in a traditional teahouse, you could do a day trip to the Cotswolds by bus tour with Premium Tours , which takes in picturesque villages such as Burford, Bibury, Stow-on-the-Wold and Bourton-on-the-Water. You could also go to Windsor (Windsor & Eton Riverside station, 30min from London Paddington) to visit Her Majesty’s home, Windsor Castle . If you’re interested in history, you could do a day trip to the university town of Cambridge (an hour by train from Kings Cross station), where you can wander around the beautiful historic centre lined with centuries-old colleges. Oxford is another good alternative (just over an hour by train from London Paddington), with a walkable city centre and gorgeous historic college buildings. Christ Church college in Oxford was used as part of the Hogwarts set in the Harry Potter movies (in case your boys are fans).

We are considering a trip in mid-late March with our three kids (10-14). We are thinking of staying in an apartment for a week in London, with possible day trips. What area of town would you recommend? I’ve read your recommendations for must-sees (thank you, so helpful!). Is there anything notable about this time of year we should consider?

Mid-late March is a good time to visit. If you’re coming next year, you’ll avoid the crowds brought by Easter holidays, since Easter’s not till mid-April; if you were coming around Easter time, I’d advise booking well ahead, but you should be fine.

As for where to stay, I’d recommend staying either in the Covent Garden/Soho area, since it’s very central, within walking distance of numerous attractions, has great transport connections and plenty of dining options. Another alternative is the South Kensington/Knightsbridge area, since you’d then be close to two excellent museums – Natural History and Science, both of which are hugely popular with families and might interest your kids. Rather than suggest specific apartments, I recommend the following websites which list holiday apartments for parts of London, and you can pick something that suits you best: Owners Direct , Home Away , London Serviced Apartments , and City Base Apartments – and of course, the big websites like Airbnb and VRBO. In general hotels are best for stays under a week, apartment and flat rentals better for stays of more than a week.

Easy day trips out of London include Windsor (Windsor & Eton Riverside station, 30min from London Paddington) where you can visit the Queen’s home, Windsor Castle , as well as Legoland Windsor theme park. It’s easy to do a day trip to Cambridge (an hour by train from Kings Cross station), where you can see the colleges – beautiful historic buildings – and go punting on the River Cam if the weather is nice (a little like the gondolas in Venice). Oxford is another good day trip (just over an hour by train from London Paddington) – it’s bigger than Cambridge, but has a compact city center, also with gorgeous historic college buildings. If your kids are Harry Potter fans, then they might wish to visit Christ Church college, which was used as part of the Hogwarts set.

My partner and I will be in London for a weekend in January. We’ve already booked our hotel in the Soho area, so I’m wondering what are must see/do things in such a short time? This is also the first time either of us have been to London, so any suggestions are very much appreciated!

It depends what you’re into, but you can certainly squeeze a lot into a couple of days if you put your mind to it. Soho’s a good place to stay, as it’s very central and it’s easy to get to most attractions from there.

I just going to outline a provisional itinerary of how you can plan your two days.

Day 1: start by visiting Westminster Abbey – it’s London’s most famous church (take the underground to Westminster tube or walk). Prince William and Kate Middleton got married there, and it’s where many of England’s kings and queens are buried. Gorgeous interior. Get there before the 9am opening time to beat the crowds. If WWII history is your bag, then just a couple of blocks away are the Churchill War Rooms – the underground bunker where Winston Churchill and the wartime cabinet was based during the war. It’s a really good museum with interactive elements that bring across the tense atmosphere during wartime.

From here it’s a couple of blocks to Westminster pier, where you can take a boat along the Thames. It’s a great way to see London’s iconic buildings, many of which are along the river, such as the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, St Paul’s Cathedral, the Shard and more. Plus the RB1 commuter boat that runs from Westminster pier to Greenwich stops at various attractions along the way. If it’s a nice day, you might want to stop at the London Eye – Europe’s biggest observation wheel (to avoid the worst of the queues, book tickets online in advance and try to avoid the 11am-3pm peaktime on weekends when it attracts the biggest crowds). If you’re into modern art, stop at the Bankside pier to visit Tate Modern – Britain’s biggest and best contemporary art gallery. Entry is free, with the exception of special exhibitions. A good alternative to the London Eye for best views of London is the Shard (get off at London Bridge). You can either go up to the observation platform on the 72nd floor (again, it’s cheaper if you book tickets online), or else opt for lunch at Aqua Shard or Oblix, or a drink at the Gong bar – you won’t be quite as high up, but the views will still be excellent.

From here, take the boat further east to Tower, where you’ll find Tower Bridge – London’s most striking bridge. You can go up the towers to the exhibition in between the two. If you don’t get vertigo, you can walk on the glass panels 42m above the river! Nearby is the Tower of London – one of the city’s biggest attractions. It’s a castle rather than a tower and it’s been a home to royalty for hundreds of years. You can see the priceless Crown Jewels there, check out the place where two of Henry VIII’s wives were executed and have a wander along the castle walls.

That’s probably quite enough for one day. Back in Soho, you’re spoiled for choice as far as dinner goes. Some of my favourite restaurants include Palomar – great, creative Middle Eastern food, small portions though. Burger & Lobster is a good place for surf & turf, Bo Drake is a great East Asian BBQ restaurant, Rules is London’s oldest restaurant with grand decor and solid British food (there’s a dress code)… Drinks-wise, you can just wander around Soho and see what takes your fancy. I like Cahoots (underground bar with great cocktails and a WWII/Blitz theme), French House Soho (a wine bar with a long history) and Bar Termini – great little place, really good cocktails.

Day 2: You can take it easy and check out the attractions near Soho – have a walk around Covent Garden with its covered market, visit the National Gallery – London’s best classic art gallery, and/or check out the National Portrait Gallery next door (portraits of British famous people through the ages). You can take the tube up to Russell Square to visit the British Museum – Britain’s best – with priceless treasures from around the world. If you’re fans of the Royal Family, you can take the tube to Green Park or St James’ Park and walk to Buckingham Palace – the Queen’s London home. Every other day at 11.30am there’s the Changing of the Guard – with a marching band and lots of pomp. Get there early to secure a good spot. If you want to treat yourself to proper afternoon tea, you can combine a visit to Buckingham Palace with a visit to The Ritz. It’s a really refined, quintessential British experience, with 5 sittings daily from 11.30am (book well in advance).

You can also take the tube to South Kensington and check out the Victoria & Albert Museum. It’s a wonderful place – with everything from fashion through the ages to fine porcelain from China and Korea, contemporary glasswork, etc. And the cafe is a work of art in itself.

Finally, another quintessential London thing to do is catching a show or a musical in the West End (Soho’s part of the West End). You can check what’s on during the weekend that you’re in London, and book tickets online.

Hello, I am planning to visit London during last week of December and first week of January (2 weeks). Is the Christmas/New Years period a good time to visit London from a shopping point of view? Thanks Vineet

Before Christmas Day shopping can be challenging and I wouldn’t recommend it because of the crowds rushing to buy last-minute presents. However, many high street stores and department stores slash prices on clothes, electronics, and all sorts of other goods as early as Boxing Day (December 26th), or on December 27th, while the January sales continue until mid-January or so.

It’s worth bearing in mind that public transport is limited on December 26th and January 1 (but running as normal the rest of the time), so if you’re looking to go shopping on those two days, it’s worth sticking to one neighbourhood and take a taxi (or Uber if you have the app) there and back if you’re not based centrally. However, if you stay in the West End/Covent Garden area, you’re right in the middle of London’d most extensive shopping area and can get to most places on foot, including Oxford St, Regent St, Bond St, Soho, and Carnaby St.

For high street fashion bargains, head for Oxford Street. Bargains on designer gear can be had along Regent Street, Bond Street, and Carnaby Street. If you’re after cheap electronics, there are several stores along Tottenham Court Rd selling cut-price gadgets after Christmas.

Big-name department stores having post-Christmas sales include Fortnum & Mason on Bond St (designer fashion, accessories, homeware), Harrods in Knightsbridge (big sale in their luxurious food emporium), Harvey Nichols in Knightsbridge (luxury goods), Liberty on Carnaby St, Soho (fashion, luxury goods), John Lewis (anything from electronics and fashion to kitchenware) on Bond Street and elsewhere, Selfridges (fashion, homeware, accessories and more) on Oxford Street, and Peter Jones (60 stores selling shoes, perfume, famous fashion brands, electronics and more).

My daughter is graduating high school in June – she asked her dad and I to take her to see London as a graduation present. We plan to take her in mid April of this year – she will be just shy of 18 years old then. Can you give me some advice on where to stay – many hotels seem to have rooms with only one bed and we need two double or queen size beds. Can you tell me what attractions are a must see? She is a Harry Potter fan, loves to shop, wants to experience high tea and see all the best sights in London when it is not too hot there to do plenty of walking. We love good food and would even consider a day trip to Scotland if at all possible. We plan to stay max of 4 or 5 nights. Do you know about which airline would be best to travel on to London from New York? Thanks for your insight

If you’re coming to London for 4-5 nights, it makes sense to stay in the Covent Garden/Piccadilly/Leicester Square area, as it’s very central and close to many main attractions. It’s what’s known as ‘Theatreland’ in London, as that’s where most of London’s theatres are, as well as plenty of restaurants, pubs and shopping streets. There’s more than enough to keep you busy in London for 4-5 days, and Scotland’s not really doable as a day trip, so I’d suggest just making the most of your time in London.

It’s very rare for British hotels to have two double or queen-sized beds in one room; family rooms tend to have a double/queen and a single or else a sofa bed. Another option are serviced apartments, which are more likely to have two separate double/queen-sized beds. Out of hotels in that neighbourhood, I’d suggest Le Meridien Picadilly – their family rooms have two large double beds; 5-star The Savoy large double and two single beds; the less expensive but still lovely Waldorf Hilton – there you can book a double room with two double beds; the Sofitel London St James – their deluxe king rooms come with a large double and a sofa bed. If you and your daughter don’t mind sharing the same room, it can be even less expensive to book two separate doubles or a double and a single at the Strand Palace Hotel . As for serviced apartments in the neighbourhood, Valet Apartments Covent Garden are super-central and come with two double beds, while Apple Apartments The Strand also come with two double beds, as well as 24-hour room service courtesy of the ME by Melia hotel next door.

Since your daughter is a Harry Potter fan, there are a number of sights in London that appeared in the Harry Potter movies that you can visit as part of a walking tour (Leadenhall Market = Diagon Alley, Tower Bridge, etc) with Tour For Muggles . There’s also Platform 9 3/4 at Kings Cross train station that you can visit on your own, since it’s not included in the walking tour, as well as St Pancras train station, which is next door to Kings Cross. “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child” runs at the Palace Theatre and it will still be running when you come to London in April. It’s really popular but you can book tickets online in advance . (By the way, if you want to see a different theatre show or musical, check out londontheatre.co.uk to see what’s on and to book tickets). Finally, there are the Warner Bros Studios where large chunks of the Harry Potter movies were shot and where you can check out studio sets and thousands of props from the movies. The studios are 20 miles out of London, though – you have to take a train from London Euston to Watford Junction, from where a shuttle bus takes you directly to the studios (you have to book studio tickets in advance online first). If you do go out to the studios, it takes up at least half a day.

As for must-see sights in London, a boat tour along the River Thames is a great way to get your bearings and see most of London’s iconic buildings at the same time – Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, the Shard, the London Eye, Tower Bridge… Boat tours depart from Westminster pier, near Westminster tube station; several companies run boat tours, including City Cruises . For great views of London, it’s well worth going on the London Eye – book online for cheaper rates – or else go up the Shard skyscraper (London Bridge tube station) to the observation platform on the 72nd floor. You can go for a drink or a meal at the Aqua Shard (contemporary British), Oblix (urban international) or Hutong (northern Chinese) inside the Shard – you won’t be quite as high, but you’ll still get some pretty special views.

If you’re into history, it’s well worth visiting the Tower of London, where English kings and queens have lived for over 700 years and where you can see a priceless collection of Crown Jewels. If you want to see Her Majesty the Queen’s London home, head for Buckingham Palace. Every other day at 11.30am they have the Changing of the Guard – a spectacle full of pomp and ceremony; check the website closer to your arrival date to see on which days it’s happening. If you only visit one church in the UK, make it Westminster Abbey , where Prince William and Kate Middleton got married; it’s absolutely beautiful inside and that’s where most of England’s royalty is buried. Get here just before opening time in the morning to beat the crowds. And just around the corner are the Churchill War Rooms – the bunker where Winston Churchill had his headquarters during WWII, along with the secret phone line directly to President Roosevelt.

Less historical but fun and popular with visitors is the London Dungeon , near the London Eye, where costumed actors take you through the more gruesome bits of London’s 1000-year history – lots of audience participation! Then there’s Madame Tussaud’s near Baker St tube – the famous wax museum where you can get your pictures taken with the Royal family, movie stars, famous musicians and more. Again, get there early to avoid the crowds.

For shopping, there are two main areas in London. One is the Oxford St/Regent St/Soho, right near Covent Garden. Oxford St and Regent St are more for high street fashions, but if your daughter wants to check out some quirky independent stores, there are some along Carnaby St in Soho. There you’ll also find Liberty, one of London’s most famous department stores, selling unique gifts, jewelry, clothes and more. The Knightsbridge/Brompton neighbourhood is where visitors shop for haute couture, but even if you’re not into that, it’s fun to browse the Harrods department store – they have an amazing food hall, as well as gifts, perfume, clothing and more. And from Harrods it’s a short walk down Brompton Rd to the Victoria & Albert Museum, with its incredible collection of priceless treasures from around the world, fashions through the ages…

If you’re into art, the National Gallery and the National Portrait Gallery are two great choices and both in the Leicester Square area. Across the river is the Tate Modern – one of the top contemporary art galleries in the world. Near Russell Square tube is the British Museum – if you only visit one museum in London, that’s the best one, with priceless treasures from around the world. All state-owned museums and galleries in London are free, by the way, with the exception of special exhibitions.

Places to eat…In London there’s something for everyone – any type of food you can think of. Some of my favourite places to eat in the Covent Garden/Soho area include Union Jacks – proper British pub grub; Canteen – really good British food; Homeslice – imaginative pizzas; Flesh and Buns – funky cellar restaurant serving Japanese and Taiwanese food and The Palomar – terrific, creative Middle Eastern food (small portions, though). The hotel you staying in should be able to make dining recommendations depending on what kind of cuisine you’re after.

Many top-end hotels, as well as numerous tea rooms serve high tea. It’s hard to beat high tea at The Ritz , but it’s hugely popular, so make reservations weeks in advance. Fortnum & Mason at 181 Picadilly is another wonderful place for high tea.

For flights from NYC to London, I definitely recommend getting something direct. Even if you can find something cheaper saving the pain of switching planes gets your trip off on a good foot (and gets you to London decently rested). British Airways, American, Delta, United, and Virgin Atlantic all have direct flights so search Kayak.com for the route that suits your times and preferred airport.

Hi. My friend and I plan to visit London in late December – mid January. Since January is the coldest month of the year with heavy rain and cold weather, will many stalls in all the markets such as Borough Market, Greenwich Market, Portobello Market, Bricklane Market, Streetfeast and Camden Town be closed ? Thank you!

Weather in the UK is unpredictable, and while yes, generally January can be cold and rainy, that’s not always the case, and it rarely rains for very long. Borough Market is a covered market and Greenwich market is partially enclosed, but Greenwich Market, Portobello Market, Brick Lane Market, and Camden Market still go ahead, whether it’s raining or not. The only one that’ll be closed is Street Feast at Dalston Yard – that one generally only takes place over summer weekends, but if you’re looking for good street food, Borough Market has an excellent selection of food stalls throughout the week (except Sunday) – anything from cakes to Greek, Indian, fresh oysters, and gourmet burgers.

Hello We are thinking of visitng the Uk with our 9 year old son end December to early January. He is especially interested in Harry Potter and I understand that there is also a Roald Dahl museum and cafe. Obviously we would like to visit Windsor Castle, Tower of London etc. The 3 of us love live theatre. We also thought it would be fun to stay in a castle somewhere for a night. Are you able to suggest places to visit? Where would you suggest that we stay in London. Does any accomodation have kitchen and laundry facilities? Do you think 10 days would be long enough? From the UK we will spend about 2 nights in Paris then fly to Singapore for a week on our way home. I would be very interested to hear of your suggestions for activities and acoomodation as well. With thanks Michele

End of December/early January is a really good time to visit London, and you can certainly pack a lot of sightseeing into 10 days. The city is festively lit up with Christmas lights, and there are a lot of seasonal events around Christmas, such as the Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, with a big Christmas market, rides, ice skating rink, etc (very popular with families and kids!). There are other Christmas markets and fairs, Oxford Street (shopping) being made pedestrian-only at certain times, Christmas carol services and other music at St Paul’s Cathedral, etc.

Most big name attractions are open for most of the Christmas season, with the exception of two or three days. Most attractions close on Christmas Day; some (including museums) are closed on December 24th, December 26th and January 1 as well, so it’s worth checking individual websites if you have your heart set on a particular attraction. If you have a week in London over the Christmas holidays, you can work around this; the London Eye, for example, is only closed on Christmas Day, the Shard viewing platform is open even on Christmas Day, and you can visit places such as the Tower of London, British Museum, Westminster Abbey, Tower Bridge, the London Dungeon and Windsor Castle before December 24th or after the 26th.

As for Harry Potter attractions, there’s Platform 9 ¾ at Kings Cross train station, where your son can have his picture taken with a luggage trolley that’s half-disappeared in the wall. You can spend a day at the Warner Bros Studio Tour London , where you can go behind the scenes of the Harry Potter films and check out the sets and props. If you visit London Zoo, Harry spoke Parseltongue to the python at the Reptile House there. In “Order of the Phoenix”, Harry flew over Tower Bridge on his broomstick (and Tower Bridge is well worth visiting anyway, as it’s the most impressive bridge over the Thames). Leadenhall Market (near Bank tube) was used as Diagon Alley in several Harry Potter films. Finally, London Walks (www.walks.com), Discover Walks (www.discoverwalks.com) and Brit Movie Tours (www.britmovietours.com) all offer themed Harry Potter walks.

The Roald Dahl Museum is not in London proper; it’s in the village of Great Missenden, Buckinghamshire; trains run directly to the heart of the village from London Marylebone train station (45 minutes), so you can do a half-day trip if your son is a big Roald Dahl fan. Your son might also be interested in the Natural History and the Science museums in Kensington, London; both are interactive and hands-on, and really popular.

Since you’d be in London for just 10 days or so and you love theatre, the Covent Garden/West End area is a good place to base yourselves. It’s right near many theatres, it’s within easy walking distance of some attractions (National Gallery, Leicester Square, Trafalgar Square, the River Thames – handy for boat tours with City Cruises , and there’s a huge number of dining options right on your doorstep – both in Covent Garden and in neighbouring Soho/Chinatown areas. If you want to search for specific theatre shows and musicals for end of December, it’s worth checking out london-theatreland.co.uk and londontheatre.co.uk to see what’s on and to book discounted tickets online in advance.

Some good accommodation options in West End include Premier Inn Leicester Square , the boutique Dean Street Townhouse in Soho, Seven Dials Hotel , plus the more upmarket options such as the colourful boutique Soho Hotel and Ham Yard Hotel . All of the above options welcome families. If you prefer to stay in an apartment instead, Aparthotels London offer serviced apartments (with kitchen and laundry service) near Tower Bridge – this is a little east of the centre, by the river. Also good for sightseeing boat tours and a 15min ride on the Underground to the very centre of London.

Is December a great time to visit London with a 8 year old and an infant 8 months old?

Shakeela Agard

It depends when in December you’re thinking of visiting. The weather in December is likely to be cold and grey, but you can still visit the outdoor attractions if you wrap up warmly and luckily there are plenty of things to do indoors, too. London Zoo might be something your 8 year old would like, and half of that is indoors – the tropical animal section, the aquarium, reptile house…Then there are the Natural History and Science Museums – both great for kids, plus the British Museum. All of these offer baby-changing facilities. Then there are two terrific toy shops – Hamleys on Regent St (the world’s oldest) in central London and Harrods Toy Kingdom on Brompton Rd in South Kensington. As for outdoor attractions, you can visit the London Eye, the Tower of London, or head up to the viewing platform on the 72nd floor of the Shard skyscraper for an amazing view of London. These are just a few suggestions.

The best time to visit London in December is during the two weeks approaching Christmas. The city is festively lit up with Christmas lights, and there are a lot of seasonal events around Christmas, such as the Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, with a big Christmas market, rides, ice skating rink, etc (very popular with families and kids!). There are other Christmas markets and fairs, Oxford Street (shopping) being made pedestrian-only at certain times, Christmas carol services and other music at St Paul’s Cathedral, etc.

The only thing is that prices for accommodation and flights during the Christmas season tend to shoot up and accommodation fills up in advance, so it’s best to make plans as early as possible. Since it’s the school holidays, museums and other attractions tend to be fairly busy during those times, so it’s worth booking individual attraction tickets online to save money and skip the queues.

Most big name attractions are open for most of the Christmas season, with the exception of two or three days. Most attractions close on Christmas Day; some (including museums) are closed on December 24th, December 26th and January 1 as well, so it’s worth checking individual websites if you have your heart set on a particular attraction. If you have a week in London over the Christmas holidays, you can work around this; the London Eye, for example, is only closed on Christmas Day, the Shard viewing platform is open even on Christmas Day, and you can visit places such as the Tower of London, British Museum and Natural History Museum before December 24th or after the 26th.

Christmas is a very popular time for visiting London, so it’s a good idea to book accommodation well in advance and since it’s the school holidays, museums and other attractions tend to be fairly busy during those times, so it’s worth booking individual attraction tickets online to save money and skip the queues.

Public transport runs every day but Christmas Day, and taxis are likely to be more expensive on Christmas Day and Boxing Day (December 26th), but if you’re staying in central London (Covent Garden/Leicester Square/Piccadilly Circus area, for example) the lack of public transport for one day is not a huge problem, since central London is very walkable. Many restaurants are closed on Christmas Day, but many hotels offer Christmas dining, so you can definitely find somewhere to eat.

The Covent Garden/West End area is a good place to base yourselves, since it’s within easy walking distance of some attractions (National Gallery, Leicester Square, Trafalgar Square, the River Thames – handy for boat tours with City Cruises and with a huge number of dining options right on your doorstep – both in Covent Garden and in neighbouring Soho/Chinatown areas. It’s any cuisine you can think of – Chinese, Italian, Mexican, Indian, Thai, traditional British…

Some good accommodation options in West End include Premier Inn Leicester Square , the boutique Dean Street Townhouse in Soho, Seven Dials Hotel, plus the more upmarket options such as the colourful boutique Soho Hotel and Ham Yard Hotel. All of the above options welcome families and can accommodate babies.

London has many family-friendly restaurants. These include branches of Giraffe and Carluccios (kids’ menus, activity kits, puzzles, crayons), Tibits in Picadilly (near Hamleys Toy Shop) with a specially designed kids’ area, Fire and Stone in Covent Garden with special pizzas for kids…You can even treat yourself to a meal at the Savoy Grill; it’s one of London’s top restaurants, but they also have a kids’ menu. Or you can go for proper British afternoon tea at the Lancaster Hotel, where they have a lounge and finger food for kids.

My husband and I are planning a delayed honeymoon to London and England. We plan to spend a week in London and about 10 days outside the city in England. What would you consider the best time to visit both? Are London and the countryside generally good at the same time of year or are they a little different? If you were planning a visit what month would you consider the best?

Thank you, Loli

May, June and September are generally the most pleasant months to visit, weather-wise. The weather’s been fairly unpredictable the last few years, but if there’s a heatwave in England, it’s likely to be in July or August, and being in London during a heatwave is not the nicest. May, June and September are generally warm and relatively dry, but without the crowds that come in the peak months of July and August, since those coincide with the school holidays. London can be visited at any time of year, since there are cultural events going on year-round and since many of its attractions are indoors. December is a fun time to be in London, since there are Christmas markets and other holiday events and the city is lit up beautifully with Christmas lights, but if you’re looking to get out into the country, the weather is likely to be cold.

A week is a good amount of time to spend in London – it gives you plenty of time to see the capital’s major attractions at a leisurely pace: Buckingham Palace, London Eye, Tower of London, British Museum and others. You can fit in Hop On Hop Off guided bus tours and boat tours of the River Thames to all manner of themed walking tours, plus go shopping along Oxford Street and Regent Street, plenty of eating out – in London you can find any cuisine you can think of, nights out at the theatre…you name it!

As for 10 days outside the capital, it really depends on what you’re into. There are some easy day trips you can do by train from London: Windsor, where you can visit Windsor Castle, one of the Royal Family’s residences, as well as do tours of Eton, the most famous school in England; the university town of Cambridge, with its beautiful centuries-old colleges and Oxford, its rival, with the equally beautiful colleges; Canterbury with its stunning cathedral; the vibrant seaside town of Brighton on the south coast of England. None of the above train journeys are longer than an hour and a half.

If you want to experience the quintessential British countryside, it’s well worth renting a car and spending two or three days in the Cotswolds, to the west of Oxford, where there are some wonderful countryside walks to be done between small villages with their tea shops and stone cottages with thatched roofs. Stow-on-the-Wold and Painswick are two particularly nice places in the Cotswolds. Or you can drive a bit further afield to Salisbury, with another gorgeous cathedral; it’s near Stonehenge, England’s most famous prehistoric site with the mystic circle of standing stones. Then there’s the historical town of Bath, with its wealth of Roman ruins and its spas.

There are some beautiful places and attractions in the southwest of England, in Cornwall – picturesque seaside towns such as St Ives, fantastic cliffside walks and pretty white sand coves around the Land’s End area – mainland UK’s southernmost point, some of England’s best seafood… You can get a train from London to Penzance (5 1/2 hours) and rent a car in Penzance to explore the narrow winding roads and villages. Then there’s Devon, the “English Riviera”, which is a bit closer to London but on the way to Cornwall, with nice seaside towns such as Torquay and some great walking in the nearby Dartmoor National Park; you can get a train as far as Exeter (2 1/2 hours from London) and rent a car there.

With all of the above places it’s worth bearing in mind that May, June, and September are popular months to visit (May has two Bank Holidays – one at the beginning of the month and one at the end, when a lot of Brits go for weekends away in the countryside), so accommodation has to be booked in advance (particularly somewhere like the Cotswolds, where it’s fairly limited). The same goes for train travel, since it can be quite expensive and advance purchase tickets are the most economical way to go; the National Rail website lets you book tickets online. It’s not essential to book tickets to Windsor way in advance, but if you’re looking to go as far as Exeter or Penzance, advance bookings can save you quite a lot of money.

Is Christmas a good time to visit London? We’ll have 2 kids (ages 12 and 14) and would like to visit some of the big name attractions. Do museums tend to be busy or quiet over the winter holidays? Do some attractions close?

Christmas can be a great time to visit London! The city is festively lit up with Christmas lights, and there are a lot of seasonal events around Christmas, such as the Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park , with a big Christmas market, rides, ice skating rink, etc (very popular with families and teenagers!). There are other Christmas markets and fairs, Oxford Street (shopping) being made pedestrian-only at certain times, Christmas carol services and other music at St Paul’s Cathedral, etc.

Most big name attractions are open for most of the Christmas season, with the exception of two or three days. Most attractions close on Christmas Day; some (including museums) are closed on December 24th, December 26th and January 1 as well, so it’s worth checking individual websites if you have your heart set on a particular attraction. If you have a week in London over the Christmas holidays, you can work around this; the London Eye, for example, is only closed on Christmas Day, the Shard viewing platform is open even on Christmas Day, and you can visit places such as the Tower of London, British Museum, Natural History Museum, Westminster Abbey, Tower Bridge, the London Dungeon before December 24th or after the 26th.

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When is the best time to visit the UK? (Seasonal & monthly guide)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: August 8, 2023

Are you planning a trip to the UK but unsure of the best time of year to visit? In this article discover what each season has to offer as well as a month by month guide to major events across the UK. Everything you need to know to help you make the right decision for your trip.

If you’re dreaming of having a spot of tea in England or envisioning a bagpipe serenade on the moors of Scotland, then it sounds like you’re on the verge of planning one heck of a British vacation. The question is, when is the best time to visit the UK?

There are many considerations to make when planning your trip , including the pros and cons of travelling “in season,” what types of activities you want to do and especially what kind of weather should you expect.

In this article, we will answer all commonly asked questions including

• what you can expect from the weather during each season
• the dates of school and public holidays – and the pros and cons of travelling during these peak times
• expected hours of daylight throughout the year and the impact this can have on your plans
• what (and when) major events occur throughout the year
• plus a guide to the best time to visit England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland

FAQ’s about the best time of year to visit the UK

Many questions about when is the best time to visit the UK invariably revolve around the weather. The only certainty about the UK weather is that is unpredictable.

• When is winter in the UK?

The winter months ranges from mid-November to early March.

• When is summer in the UK?

The summer months range from early June to the end of August.

• Can I see the Northern Lights in the UK?

For the best chance to see the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) head to to Northern Scotland.

• What is the rainiest month in the UK?

Although December to February are the months that tend to have the most rainfall in the UK (and often can fall as snow especially on higher ground) expect rain at any time of year.

• What is the hottest month of the year in the UK?

During the summer months expect generally warm to hot weather with July (on average) the month with the highest average temperatures.

• When is peak season in the UK?

Peak season in the UK is July and August. This also coincides with school holidays across the country.

• When is the shoulder season in the UK?

Shoulder season in the UK is May, June and September.

• When are the major public holidays in the UK?

In addition to Christmas, New Year and Easter holidays there are a number of public holidays (called ‘Bank” holidays) throughout the year including May Day Bank Holiday (first Monday in May), Spring Bank Holiday (last Monday in May – and yes there are two Bank Holiday weekends in May!), and the Summer Bank Holiday (last Monday in August)

• FAQ's about the best time of year to visit the UK

The weather

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Factors to consider when planning your trip

• Pros and cons of travelling during Peak Season, Shoulder Season or Low Season
• The impact of daylight hours

The UK is a small island divided into 4 separate nations — England , Wales , Northern Ireland and Scotland . Each has their own cultural identities and attractions to consider, not to mention their own weather idiosyncrasies.

Basically though, the entire UK has a temperate climate with warm summers that never get too hot and cold winters that never get too cold.

The UK weather is, however, famously unreliable and generally not the primary reason to visit the UK! Think about your many clothing options when packing— and don’t forget the umbrella (my UK packing guide for every season will help!)

The answer to the question, ‘When is the best time of year to visit the UK?’ really depends on what you’re looking for. The UK’s warmest weather is in the summer. Autumn and spring are charming but may be a little bit chilly for certain outdoor activities. Winter can be cold, blustery and damp, though it usually only snows around 24 days out of the year.

Spring in the UK begins in March and goes through to the end of May. The weather starts off cold and rainy but becomes more mild as the months progress. Finally, by the end of May and beginning of June, the UK starts to warm up. The average maximum temperatures are as follows:

• March, 12°C (54°F)
• April, 15°C (59°F)
• May, 18°C (64°F)
• June, 21°C (70°F)

Read – Complete Guide to visiting the UK in spring

The summer is generally very pleasant in the UK and tends to be dryer than in the autumn and winter months. The summer begins in June and ends in early September. The average maximum temperatures for the summer months are as follows:

• July, 23°C (73°F)
• August, 23°C (73°F)
• September, 20°C (68°F)

Read – Complete Guide to visiting the UK in summer

Autumn goes from September through to the end of November. Days change from crisp to blustery and then get downright cold. There tends to be a higher level of precipitation during these months as well. The average maximum temperatures for the autumn months are as follows:

• October, 16°C (61°F)
• November, 12°C (54°F)
• December, 9°C (48°F)

It can get rather bleak and cold in the UK during the winter months, which go from the start of December through to the end of February. The average maximum temperatures for the UK in winter months are as follows:

• January, 9°C (48°F)
• February, 9°C (48°F)

Read – Complete Guide to visiting the UK in winter

Peak season for travel in the UK are the summer months of July and August. These dates also coincide with the long 6 week summer school holidays (and hopefully sunny weather)

What are the pros of visiting the UK during peak season?

• The UK weather is generally at its best during these months.
• Hours of daylight are long which means more time to explore the sights.
• Some of the UK’s major events occur during July (Wimbledon) and August (Edinburgh Festival)
• Many historic sights have special events on especially for families e.g jousting at Warwick Castle.

What are the cons of traveling during peak season?

• It is the most expensive time of year to visit and prices for flights, accommodation and transportation can be sky-high.
• Main attractions across the country are busy – buy tickets ahead of time (skip the line tickets are worth the expense unless you enjoy wasting precious holiday time in a queue!)
• Restaurants and hotels are jam-packed.
• Roads are busy and traffic jams are common which can add to the stress if you are planning to hire a car for a road trip

Shoulder season in the UK is in May, early June, September and early October.

What are the pros of visiting the UK during shoulder season?

• Less expensive than peak season
• Better availability for accommodation
• Some of the UK’s most popular events occur during these months such as the Chelsea Flower Show (May), Trooping of the Colour (June)
• Less crowded (though the Bank holidays can be busy)
• There are 2 public (bank) holidays in May (first and last Mondays of May) and many popular historical sights organize events especially for families over these long weekends.
• Expect fewer crowds at popular attractions (though school groups may visit museums, art galleries, and castles during term time)
• Long daylight hours

November through to April is generally considered to be the low season for travel to the UK.

Note that some parts of the UK such as London and Edinburgh experience significant numbers of tourists during December and early January which can significantly impact costs.

Pros of visiting the UK during the low season

• Budget friendly
• Less crowded
• Enjoy special events over the festive period including Christmas markets, Christmas lights and decorations in major cities and New Year’s Eve celebrations.

Cons of visiting the UK during the low season

• Weather can be very cold (expect snow during the winter months)
• Daylight hours are reduced (it can get dark as early as 3.30 pm)
• Many popular attractions are closed over the winter months.

The amount of daylight you can expect fluctuates greatly across the year and can have a major impact on your plans.

The amount of daylight can also vary depending on your destination within the UK. The further north you travel the more daylight you can expect in summer and the less in winter.

Average hours of daylight in June (longest day)

London – 16 hours +

Scotland – 17 hours +

Average hours of daylight in December (shortest day)

London – 8 hours

Scotland – 7 hours

First of all, there’s no bad time to visit England , though travelling during every season has its advantages and disadvantages. You can, however, expect some seasonal variation in prices, crowd size and availability of activities.

The summer is the peak tourist season, which is from the end of May to early September. The daylight hours are at their maximum, up to 16 hours per day. The weather is usually delightful and kids are off school (July and August). The inevitable consequence is that everyone starts flocking to the tourist destinations and adding to the already long lines and crowds.

If you dream of gallivanting through the English countryside, add throngs of people sharing the roads and limited parking to your vision. Unfortunately, hotel rates and airfare are usually more expensive in the summer. Still, that charming weather can be a lure that outweighs all of those inconveniences.

If you travel in winter, it may be cold and bleak, and the daylight hours will have waned to just 8 to 10 hours per day. That’s the bad news. The good news is you won’t have to fight any crowds or struggle to get a dinner reservation. There will also be deals to be had on hotel rooms and flights. So if your itinerary contains a lot of indoor activities, maybe winter travel is right for you.

If you’re wondering when is a good time to visit London , it’s similar to travelling in the rest of the UK in terms of weather and seasonal availability. There are a few exceptions, however.

Christmas time in the capital city has been an incredibly popular destination for decades, what with the shopping, the decorations and abundant Christmassy charm.

If however you are a royal watcher, consider traveling in the summer when there are more opportunities to have a peek into the royal lifestyle . Many royal residences are open to the public during the summer because the royals themselves are away on vacation.

Taking all of this into consideration, if you want to know when the best time is to visit England, the answer is (if you can) spring or autumn. During these times the weather is favourable and the daylight hours vary from 11 to 15 hours per day, so there’ll be plenty of time for sightseeing.

Taking a road trip through the English countryside (the Cotswolds , Lake District , Peak District or Northumberland are just two suggestions) is gorgeous in the spring or autumn because either the flowers are blooming or the leaves are turning brilliant shades of orange and yellow. While there are crowds they are smaller and more manageable than in the peak summer season.

Just like it did for England, the timing of your Scotland trip depends upon what you activities have planned. The country’s winter may be more suited to hunkering down in an Edinburgh pub rather than hiking through the Highlands. The average temperature hovers around 0°C (32°F) and is likely to be even colder on the coast and in higher attitudes.

Like England, airfares and hotel rooms will generally be cheaper and you won’t have to fight the crowds in the cities or in the train stations. You will, however, need to be ready for the reduced daylight hours. In January, for example, the sun rises at 8:47 a.m. and sets at 3:53 p.m.

There is good news, though. Because of Scotland’s high latitude and particularly dark winter nights, there’s a chance that you will be treated to the aurora borealis or the northern lights — a dazzling and somewhat ethereal light show in the sky.

A summer trip to Scotland is defined by pros and cons.

The pros — you’ll have lovely weather, as it never gets too terribly hot in Scotland. Temperatures range from 15°C (59°F) to 17°C (63 °F). The daylight hours are also long. In August, for example, the sun rises at 4:22 a.m. and sets at 8:03 p.m.

There will be a lot to do, like hiking, camping, driving tours, beautiful train journeys , exploring the cities, islands and the countryside.There are festivals for every taste, such as the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and the Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival  in Inverness.

Now for some cons — July and August are peak months for travel, and the crowds will be significantly larger and the prices will be higher. If you don’t mind competing for a little space and paying more for the privilege, then a summer trip may just be the perfect one for you.

As with England, visiting Scotland in the late spring/early summer or early autumn is ideal. By June, Scotland gets an amazing 17 hours of daylight. That combined with the spring’s pleasant weather, an average of 7°C (45°F) to 13 °C (55°F), and you will be able to conquer every outdoor activity there is to offer.

If you would prefer to spend your time in Scotland’s cities, the good news is that the summer tourists haven’t arrived yet, so lines won’t be as long and the prices will be more reasonable. The same thing is true for an autumn visit. Starting in November through middle December, airfares tend to be cheaper.

Early autumn is an ideal time of year to drive North Coast 500 , a spectacular 516-mile trip from Inverness along Scotland’s North Highlands that might be one of the most scenic drives in the world.

No matter when you visit Wales , remember, the weather can be unpredictable and you should pack well and be prepared for a variety of temperatures.

The temperature in winter averages 6°C (43°F), but compared to Scotland, there is a good amount of daylight — sunrise is around 7:40 a.m. and sunset is around 6:28 p.m. In spite of the cooler weather, daffodils have been known to make their cheerful appearance late in the winter.

Another plus, if you travel on or near March 1st, you can join the locals in celebrating St. David’s Day. The patron saint of Wales is feted with parades, traditional Welsh dress and plenty of delicious food, not to mention scores of daffodils and leeks.

The summer is a lovely time to visit, as the weather is very agreeable, although the region can get quite a bit of rain. There is between 15-16 hours of daylight during the summer. Temperatures average 16 °C (61 °F), so hiking and camping would be fantastic during this time, as would any coastal family trips.

If you wish to see the Atlantic Puffins take over the island of Skomer, then early July is the time to go, especially if you want to see them parenting their new chicks.

Summer is the busiest time of year, so expect higher prices and be prepared to book well in advance for hotels (and popular Welsh castle hotel stays ), air travel, restaurants and activities.

The late spring and early autumn are great times to go to Wales. There are between 13 and 16 hours of daylight during both seasons. The temperature usually hovers around 13°C (55°F). In May and June, flowers will be blooming in a riot of colors, making the already breathtaking scenery fully come to life.

The Wales Coast Path, an 870-mile long footpath that winds its way along the coastline, makes for a perfect hike during this time. For something a little different, check out The Laugharne Weekend in West Wales — a local, literary and arts celebration of Dylan Thomas and other writers, musicians and comedians who’ve come from Wales.  

In the autumn, the mountains and valleys look to be on fire with all shades of gold and orange, and the nights begin to get crisp with a touch of chill. Places like Hay-on-Wye, a charming market town on the River Wye become even more magical in the autumn.

There will also be plenty of seasonal activities, such as at the medieval Powis Castle and Garden. Each year they create the Powis pumpkin trail, where kids can search for the carved pumpkins hidden throughout the garden.

If spending a night in a Welsh castle is on your bucket list why not book one of these amazing Welsh castle hotels ?

If you wish to visit Northern Ireland when the temperatures are at their warmest, then go during July and August. The average temperature in the summer is 17°C (63°F), but beware because summertime is also when the country’s rainfall is at its peak.

The summer in Northern Ireland has amazingly long daylight hours, 5:00 a.m. to 10:00pm, so you’ll be able to pack in a lot of activities. It is the peak season, which means you’ll be fighting the crowds as you see the sights.

Also, keep in mind, summer vacations for their school children start a few weeks earlier than they do in England, meaning the tourist sites may be more crowded starting at the end of June.

In winter, Northern Ireland is a little colder than England and has about 7-8 hours of daylight. That won’t matter too much if you seek out Belfast’s St. George’s Market, Northern Ireland’s last surviving Victorian market. In December, they offer twilight days for evening shopping. There will also be crafts from local artisans, delightful food and family entertainment.

Like with the other UK regions, you get the best of everything by visiting in the spring or autumn. By late spring, you’ll start to see lambs and calves in the pastures as the temperatures rise to between 10°C (50°C) to 16°C (60°F).

Visit Rathlin Island in the late spring and you’ll see all kinds of nesting birds and the area’s famous puffins. Also, for those festival fans, check out the two-day Bushmills Salmon and Whiskey festiva l held in early June.

In the autumn, as the leaves are changing colors, it’s a perfect time to visit the Glens of Antrim, or known locally simply as The Glens. It’s a region of County Antrim known for it’s astonishing natural beauty.

In October, the Glens Storytelling Festival is a five-day event for tourists and locals alike to experience the magic of this area’s story telling traditions. Expect family-friendly stories to have a touch of Halloween magic.

Which is the best month to visit the UK? Month by month pros and cons + guide to all the major events in the UK

❄️ Visiting the UK in winter

🌷 Visiting the UK in spring

☀️ Visiting the UK in the summer

🍂 Visiting the UK in autumn

🧣 Visiting Scotland in winter

January in the UK falls within the low tourist season, which creates some distinct advantages for travellers. Students return to school and the cold weather, gloomy skies and waning daylight translate into fewer people, cheaper hotel rooms and inexpensive airfare.

Also, the after-Christmas sales are in full swing, so bargain hunters will have a field day shopping. Theatre tickets and restaurant reservations will also be easier to get. A January trip is sounding better and better. Here are some fun things to do in January:

• New Year’s Day Parade in London —This is a fabulous, free and family-friendly parade in the city’s West End. It’s three and a half hours of music and revere that won’t soon be forgotten.

• Simplyhealth Great Edinburgh Winter Run— If you’re in Scotland and are a fitness buff, join 3000 other hardcore health nuts for this 5k of fun that also affords fantastic views of the city.

• Big Burns Supper in Dumfries Scotland— Part of the country’s Burns Night, this event occurs in the latter half of the month and offers all sorts of venues with everything from comedy to cabaret.

February in the UK falls securely within low season for travellers, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have an absolutely fantastic vacation if you choose to travel then. If you don’t mind cooler weather, the seaside towns should be virtually empty, for example.

Keep in mind that UK schools have a half-term break in February, which may cause unexpected crowds at tourist sites. Here are some fun things to do in February:

• V alentine’s Day in London —A visit to multiple artisan chocolate shops would definitely be in order, as would a romantic dinner for two in one of London’s many fine-dining restaurants.

• The Orchid Festival at London’s Kew Gardens —If you adore flowers and don’t want to travel all the way to Indonesia, then this show is not to be missed. There will be over 5000 species of orchids to admire.

• London’s Classic Car Show in Olympia Exhibition Centre —You’ll see some of the finest and most collectable vintage models in the world.

Flowers will be just beginning to bloom throughout the UK, a promise that spring is just around the corner.

March is a shoulder season for tourists, which means it’s not too busy and not too light. So you can throw on a coat and start taking advantage of some of the outdoor fun that the UK has to offer. Here are some fun things to do in March:

• Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race in London — When is the best time to travel to England? When there are 250,000 screaming rowing fans cheering on the edge of the Thames. This is one of the largest sporting events held in London and it’s free! (Sometimes this event happens in April, so check online to see.)

• Glasgow International Comedy Festival —Are you a comedy fan? In the latter half of March, travel to Scotland and see the funniest stars from all around the UK hit the stage in what is Europe’s largest comedy festival.

• St. Patrick’s Day in Northern Ireland —On March 17th, County Armagh and County Down host the annual Home of Saint Patrick Festival that consists of concerts, family-friendly activities and general fun.

Ah, April. The flowers are blooming and the days are getting longer. It’s a shoulder season, so it’s a pretty good time to enjoy the natural beauty that the UK has to offer without having to brave too many crowds.

Students in the UK have a school break around Easter, which usually falls in this month, so that may alter the tourist scene slightly. Regardless, there are also a lot of fun, local activities to choose from. Here are some examples:

• Isle of Wight Walking Festival —Fun for all ages and all fitness levels. Thousands of locals and tourists alike explore the island and take in its stark, scenic beauty.

• Shakespeare’s Birthday in Stratford-upon-Avon —Celebrate The Bard’s birthday by traveling to his birthplace for performances, music and all kinds of fun.

• Cardiff Flower Show —If you’re a gardener or a flower appreciator and are planning to be in Wales, you might want to visit the Royal Horticultural Society’s Cardiff Flower Show. There are countless exhibits and demonstrations to inspire and fascinate those with or without a green thumb.

The weather is getting ever warmer and the days are getting longer in the UK, yet May is still a shoulder season, which means its an excellent time to visit. Things can get busy over the Bank holiday weekends with many Brits enjoying a spring staycation .

It’s also getting dryer, so rain may not be as much of an issue as it is in other months. Still, bring a few layers to wrap up in, just in case. Here are some fun things to do in May:

• Chelsea Flower Show – Since 1913, except during the two world wars, the famous Chelsea Flower Show has been a glamorous affair celebrating British flowers and garden design. It takes place on the grounds of the Royal Hospital in Chelsea and makes for a fun and historical activity whilst in the UK.

• Gloucester Docks Tall Ship Festival — Come see tall ships in all of their splendor along with fun and games for the whole family. There will be live stages with local bands as well as a food market

• Gordon Castle Highland Games and Country Fair – Join over 10,000 locals and tourists at Scotland’s only highland games and country fair. It’s at the magnificent Gordon Castle located near Fochabers in Moray.

The middle of June marks the beginning of peak season for traveling in the UK, so make sure you’ve got those reservations, tickets and bookings well ahead of time.

You have an excellent chance of pleasant weather and agreeable temperatures, so live it up! Here are some fun things to do in June:

• Glastonbury Festival — This world-famous five-day festival takes place in Pilton, Somerset, in the south west of England. It features big-name contemporary musical acts as well as dance, cabaret and theater.

• Gregynog Music Festival — Attention classical music lovers! In the gorgeous Welsh countryside in the village of Tergynon, you’ll find the oldest classical music festival in Wales, which attracts some of the world’s finest musicians.

• The Royal Highland Show — Scotland’s largest agricultural show put on by the Royal Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland. Thousands of visitors come from all over the globe to see over 1000 exhibitors and scores of livestock. It’s in Ingliston, an area of West Edinburgh.

July is peak travel season with very long days and probably the best weather offered by the UK. Restaurants will be jam-packed and tourist sites will be overflowing with visitors.

Add in the students who have just been released from school on summer break and you will have a lot of people to contend with. No wonder there is a lot going on the UK during the summer! Here are some examples:

• Wimbledon — In a town called Wimbledon, there’s a little yearly tennis tournament. Actually, it’s probably the most major tournament in the tennis world.

Good to know – If you want to do it on the cheap, go outside the stadium to Henman Hill and buy a £30 ticket to watch the matches on a giant TV. If you want the real thing, then you’ll need to shell out quite a bit more, depending on which match you see.

• The Big Cheese at Caerphilly — History buffs, would you like to be sent back to medieval days at Caerphilly Castle ? See reenactments and battles, along with entertainment, food, period dance and a whole lot of fun.

The weather is warm, so that distracts you from the peak season crowds traveling throughout the UK. All schools are enjoying summer break, so expect to be shoulder to shoulder with locals and tourists alike at all the tourist sites.

Here are some fun things to do in August:

• Wilderness Festival —Located in Oxfordshire’s Cornbury Park, this festival offers easy-going music, theatrical productions, amazing food and really cool art, all in a gorgeous lakeside setting.

• Edinburgh Fringe Festival — If you like crowds, music and having serious fun, then try out the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, the world’s largest arts festival. It goes on for days and hosts so much talent, it takes hundreds of venues just to fit everything in. Check their website to see the list of performers.

• The National Eisteddfod — A festival celebrating all things Welsh . It’s in the first 8 days of August and there is food, music, arts and design.

The beginning of September is part of the summer peak season but with the end of summer and beginning of autumn, the rest of the month is a shoulder season.

Most students head back to school early in September, so vacationers return home and tourist sites will be less crowded. Here are some fun things to do in September:

• The Jane Austen Festival — Do you dream of spending a quiet evening with Mr. Darcy or Elizabeth Bennet? Travel to Bath and spend 10 days choosing from over 80 Jane Austen-related events. There’s even a Regency Costumed Masked Ball!

• Culture Night Belfast – For the past several years, in the second half of September, people hit the Belfast streets from City Hall to the Cathedral Quarter to enjoy a free celebration of art, language and history of Northern Ireland. There is something to do for all ages.

There’s a crisp autumn chill in the air and Halloween ghosts and goblins are just around the corner. The beginning of October is a shoulder season, and by the end, it slows down into low season. Still, there are lots of interesting things to tackle in the UK during October.

• Harwich International Shanty Festival – For those who can’t resist the call of that salty ocean air, sail on over to Harwich and sing an old song of the sea. There’ll be concerts and barge trips and crafts for the saltiest old sailors to the youngest of landlubbers.

• The Callander Jazz and Blues Festival — Who doesn’t enjoy jazz in a charming rural setting? In 2006, this festival was born and has grown larger every year. It’s a long weekend of all types of music in a variety of venues. You’ll see live blues, jazz, boogie and soul from a huge variety of artists.

This is the low season for travel in the UK. The weather is brisk and it’s best to remember to bring a bunch of comfy layers and a jacket in your suitcase. Here are some fun things to do in November:

• Guy Fawkes Night —This celebration marks the night back in 1605 when Guy Fawkes tried to blow up the Houses of Parliament. He did not succeed, and the anniversary has traditionally been remembered with a bonfire. Given that could easily get out of hand, most celebrations have switched to fireworks.

• Diwali on Trafalgar Square – Diwali is the festival of lights celebrated by Hindu, Jain and Sikh people all over the world. This one is the biggest in the UK and features amazing dancers in stunningly beautiful and colorful dress. Expect to see market stalls with amazing food, as well as crafts and fun activities for the whole family.

Yes, it’s pretty chilly in the UK during December, and the days have grown a wee bit short. There’s still a lot to love about this winter month. Keep in mind, that students in the UK usually have the final weeks in December off, so that could affect the crowd levels.

The weeks closest to Christmas are considered a peak tourist season, so there are many Christmas activities to choose from including festive markets all over the UK.

• Belfast Giants Ice Hockey — For something really different, grab the whole family, live like a local and check out an ice hockey game. Their website has all the information about tickets and times.

• Elfingrove at the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum —This magnificent museum in Glasgow transforms itself and offers night-time tours along with local food and singing.

This is really a difficult question to answer and really deserves a post all of its own.

Many people insist that it’s Christmas. Trafalgar Square has a giant lit up Christmas tree dripping in ornaments and Christmas cheer. Carol singing and festive events occur all throughout London.

There are several London Christmas Markets that will surely take care of everyone on that Christmas list. There are also a number of festive events held annually around Christmas at many of the castles near London.

But in summer the hours of daylight are longer and exploring London’s attractions on a warm sunny day is also a wonderful experience.

To be honest for me deciding when to visit London is best answered with the words “it is always a good idea!”

Read more – Visiting London in winter | 21 Festive things to do and see in London in December | 29 Things to do in London in Spring | Guide to visiting London in Fall

So the only true answer to the question, “When is the best time to go to England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland?” really does depend on your own interests and available time to go.

Once you have settled on the time of year to visit the UK you are now ready to start planning your trip itinerary.

My UK Trip Planner will help you to plan the perfect UK vacation in 10 easy to follow steps – I recommend starting there!

For UK inspiration my top 21 landmarks in England , 19 places to visit in Scotland , top 10 things to see in Wales , top 10 things to do in Northern Ireland and London bucket list articles are great places to start.

I recommend prioritising what you want to see and do. You can also take some virtual tours of London and UK landmarks and sights to help you plan.

Other useful resources to help you plan your trip:

• How much does a holiday in the UK cost? Read my UK travel budget guide to help calculate your budget!
• Choose from my selection of the best guidebooks for UK travel
• Click here for my recommendations of the best booking sites for travel to the UK
• Prefer an organised tour? Check out our recommendations of the best UK tours available for 2021 and beyond!
• How to get around the UK (Complete Guide to Transportation in the UK)

Join The London Crew: Grab this checklist with 110 things to do in london from a local.

Hues Of Delahaye

When Is the Best Time To Visit London? Seasons in London

Planning a trip to London? This guide will help you find the best time to visit London that suits your holiday needs.

Wondering when the best time to visit London is? This in-depth guide will help you to plan the best trip to London, no matter the time of year.

With a perfect blend of modern wonders and English charm, London is one of the most multicultural cities in the world and the largest in Western Europe.

London’s theatres, galleries, and museums experience none of the seasonal lulls all year round, and the restaurant scene and nightlife are a hub of activity from January to December.

Whether you’re here during the peak season or winter months, you’ll always find a host of things to do.

With so many fabulous activities and London landmarks , like the London Eye and Buckingham Palace, there isn’t really any ‘best time to visit London’.

However, it’s always a great idea to plan ahead and tailor your activities to fit the different seasons and know when’s the best time to visit is based on the experience you want.

S truggling with knowing what to do in London?

Grab this hassle free checklist of the top 110 things to do in London from a local, includes:

✅ Top Free Things To In London

✅ Cool Touristy & Non-Touristy Things To

✅ Epic Free Viewpoints

✅ Cute Instagrammable Places in London

To make this task easier, this guide has been put together to ensure you get the most out of each season.

When Is the Best Time To Visit London, England?

With so much to do and see in London, you’ll find that there’s no bad time to visit the UK’s capital. In fact, there’s so much to do that you might find yourself wondering when is the best time of year to visit London, England?

The summer season corresponds with London’s peak tourist season – so you can expect long lines during this time of the year.

However, the winter months of January and February are considered to be the offseason. This is the best time to visit London if you’re on a tighter travel budget.

The shoulder season falls in autumn and spring and offers visitors the best of both worlds. During London’s shoulder season, you’ll find plenty of attractions and mild weather.

A Month-by-Month Guide to a London Season

With so much to do and see in the UK’s capital, there’s no real ‘best time to visit London’. However, many factors may play into when you want to visit the UK’s capital, such as public holidays, the unpredictable British weather, and school holidays.

If you’re looking to read more about London, then read my London travel tips guide for some more suggestions and ideas.

Visit London in the Summer

Summer begins in June and ends in the second week of September. It comes with warm weather and plenty of hot events; you’ll find yourself spoilt for choice. These are the best months to visit London if you want to be out and about.

London’s parks are buzzing with food and music festivals, open-air cinemas usher in the crowds, and flower shows exhibit colourful displays.

Londoner’s know that the warmer summer months mean less bundling up, Alfresco dining, glasses of Pimm’s (aka Pimm’s O’clock), cocktails, and after-work drinks at some of the city’s best rooftops bars. This is also the best time to go on the London Eye.

Summer is possibly the best time to visit London — keep scrolling to see some of London town’s top summer activities .

Things To Do in London in June

The early summer month brings with it sunshine and fabulous weather – something every Brit knows how to take advantage of. It’s also a time for some famous royal and outdoor events.

Queen’s Birthday Parade

June is the month of her royal highness’s birthday, which is celebrated with the Queen’s birthday parade. Officially known as the Trooping of the Colour, this impressive military parade takes place in central London and ends at Buckingham Palace.

The Masterpiece London

The Masterpiece London is another amazing annual London event held in June, where visitors get to see the beautiful pieces of art, unique jewellery, and fine antiques at this unmissable art fair.

Not only can you witness these exquisite works, but you can also buy some of the items that you see.

It is hosted in the Royal Chelsea Hospital which exhibits items from all origins and periods. For all the budding collectors out there, this is the perfect place to go to in the hopes of getting yourself that piece that you are missing from your collection.

But some of my favourite events in London in June are Taste of London (a must if you’re a foodie) and Open Garden Squares Weekend, which sees some of the most hidden and private green park spaces in London open their gates to the public.

Things To Do in London in July

The month of July is another action-packed period in London. Tennis enthusiasts can watch the Wimbledon Championships, which run from the 2nd to the 15th of July.

If you aren’t able to get tickets, you can always watch the matches in one of the many pubs and bars in the city.

July is also when the annual Somerset House series starts, along with music festivals such as Wireless festival in Finsbury Park and Lovebox in Victoria Park. If you’re more into classical music, then don’t miss the BBC Proms at the Royal Albert Hall.

Visit Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace also opens up to the public during the month of July, which means you can take a tour of the Queen’s residence.

Explore the different staterooms and get a glimpse into what life is like behind the golden gates of the palace. You will be able to see the throne room, music room, and even the Palace Garden.

One can’t go to the palace without witnessing the changing of the guard ceremony so ensure that you are front and centre for one of the top attractions in the city.

Pride in London

Personally, my favourite July event is Pride in London. This weeklong event features a parade that takes place in the streets of central London and celebrates London’s LGBT community.

Apart from the parade, there are a bunch of events that happen in Trafalgar Square and the West End to celebrate and bring people together.

Once the parade is over, the jubilee continues into the night, with Soho being the place to be for all the events and parties.

Things To Do in London in August

August is one of the warmest months in the UK (but this is the UK, and even in summer, the weather can be unpredictable).

The Nottinghill Carnival

The main occasion everyone gears up for in August is the famous Notting Hill Carnival . It’s Europe’s biggest street festival and celebrates the Caribbean community of London.

While this festive celebration only lasts two days (over the August bank holiday weekend), preparations begin months before with ‘fetes’ (soca parties) held in the run-up to the carnival.

August is also the time of the London school holidays. So, if you find yourself in the city with your kids during this time, don’t worry – there are plenty of family-friendly activities.

Things To Do in London in September

The last of the pleasant weather comes with an exciting range of fashion, music and architecture festivals. These events possibly make September the best time to visit London.

September sees the start of the farewell to the London summer temperatures but the welcoming of some incredible festivals and celebrations.

The attractions start to quieten down a little as the peak season is winding down, giving you more freedom and a chance to see them.

Totally Thames

The Totally Thames offers visitors and residents an opportunity to see artworks and enjoy concerts in unique places and explore the history of the River Thames through walks and free exhibitions.

This month-long celebration takes place along the 42-mile stretch of the river’s banks, with opportunities every year to experience something new.

For those who love art, music, and being outdoors, this is a great festival that will highlight one of the standout features of the city, the Thames.

London Design Festival

Creatives will love the London Design Festival. This annual event allows you to explore large-scale installations. Its purpose is to hero London as the design capital of the world with its finger on the pulse of everything that is happening within the international design community.

This celebration of design brings together some of the most innovative and incredible thinkers and educators from around the country. Interact with ideas from some of the leading and most prominent artists and architects from around the world as well.

London Fashion Week

For all the fashionistas, this is the time when designers take to the catwalk with their latest collections at the London Fashion Week. Here is where you can sit back and witness the models take to the runway and flaunt the latest trends from famous and upcoming designers.

This used to be an invite-only event, but some events have been made open to the public, both in-person and accessible online. There are pop-up stores and digital showrooms for you to explore the latest and greatest in fashion — not a bad way to spend a few days.

The London Fashion Week Festival allows you to catch up on the latest fashion trends and quirky street style.

Open House London

September is also the time of year when one can admire the architectural wonders of the UK’s capital with Open House London. Considered to be one of the world’s largest architecture festivals, the goal is to celebrate all the architectural wonders that the city of London has to offer.

What makes this so unique is that this is when for one weekend only for the entire year, buildings are opened to the public that they would normally never have access to.

With around 800 or so structures and buildings to see, you will be on a mission to see the interiors of anything from mediaeval cathedrals and castles to the most elite skyscrapers.

You’ll have to act quickly for this hot ticket event as there are usually limited amounts of tickets released, and throngs of people flock to central London in the hopes of attending this event.

See the New Exhibitions at Museums and Galleries

September is typically when many of the London galleries and museums will launch their new exhibitions.

The Science Museum always has some exciting new exhibitions, with the Queen’s Gallery and Victoria and Albert Museum also playing host to some incredible collections and showcases.

The London Marathon

Originally taking part in April, with the month of September now comes the annual London Marathon. During this time, runners from across the world come to the city to run the gruelling 26.2 miles.

If you are planning your entire trip around running in the marathon to tick this item off of your bucket list, then you will need to ensure that you are here this month.

You could get a great view of the runners nearing the finish line if you took a ride on the London Eye. You could also sign up to volunteer in the marathon – something I’ve done and personally loved. This is a way to see London in a unique way while running around the city.

Last year I got to visit The Reform Club and Burlington House: The Royal Society of Chemistry.

Some other buildings that take part in the Open House London include Downing Street, Unilever House, BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Burlington House, Home House, and Bloomberg European Headquarters.

Visit London in Autumn

Londoners don’t hibernate just because it’s fall. In fact, the city’s green parks are typically at their best when the air is crisp and the colours change. With hues of orange and yellow throughout the city, there is a lot to see as the temperature slowly starts to drop.

The autumn months are short, with this transition season being one of absolute beauty. Your experience will also depend on if you visit London in early or late autumn.

Early autumn tends to still have warmer weather, but you might not see as drastic of a change in the leaves changing colour.

The latter half of autumn is the best time to travel and go to see the hues of the season in full bloom. Although this period is closer to winter so expect the weather to be colder and somewhat more typically British with rainier days.

Autumn does vary a little depending on the weather, but you can expect the colder November month to be a stark contrast to the slightly warmer early months.

If you plan to visit London in October or November, just know that you’re in for a real treat, though, regardless of the weather.

Things To Do in London in October

In case you were wondering, “when does autumn start in London?”. October signals the start of cooler months and the need for warm clothes, and there are still plenty of fun autumn activities in London .

London Oktoberfest

With the London Oktoberfest, Restaurant Festival and Cocktail week, October is certainly the month of food and drink in the UK’s capital. This also makes it a contender as the best month to visit London.

Diwali on the Square is another festival that celebrates the city’s diversity in Trafalgar Square.

Head out to explore some of London’s top museums and galleries during the Museum at Night series. Or enjoy some of the spooky ghost tours and Halloween parties towards the end of the month.

See the Colours of Autumn in Kew Gardens

The parks around London turn into magical wonderlands when the seasons start to change. From the lush greenery to shades of red and orange scattered throughout the park floors, the city takes on an entirely different personality with autumn colours .

Kew Gardens is known as the best botanical garden in the city, where all of the fiery colours will be showing off in their splendour.

This place is set over quite the area, so you could quite easily spend an entire day wandering the gardens. Pack a picnic if the weather is playing ball and sit back, relax and enjoy the sights and sounds of autumn in the gardens.

There are a few other Royal Parks that you can visit. Hyde Park is a gorgeous one to explore, as well as St. James Park. If you want to venture into West London, Hampstead Heath will transport you to another world with some incredible views of the London skyline from atop one of its hills.

Things To Do in London in November

As the sun starts to set earlier and earlier, the twinkle of Christmas lights starts to brighten the streets of central London .

This last month of the shoulder season has plenty in store, especially as the holiday spirit takes over the city from mid-November. Here are a few things to do when visiting London in November.

Bonfire Night

In early November, you’ll be treated to the vibrant displays of fireworks on Bonfire Night (Guy Fawkes Night). A little ironic how there is a celebration of the day of a man who tried to destroy the houses of parliament, but the 5th of November is when the skies above London light up.

A little fun fact is that there is a custom that still runs today where, before the State Opening of Parliament, the cellars beneath the Houses of Parliament are searched by guards.

There are a few different locations to witness the sky burst into explosions of colour, with Battersea Park and Wimbledon Park being two of the best.

While Bonfire Night is a momentous occasion, there are many other amazing activities like The Lord’s Mayor Show and the EFG London Jazz Festival.

Winter Wonderland

November is also the best time to visit London if you want to get a taste of what the Christmas season is like.

The Winter Wonderland is set up in Hyde Park (my personal favourite) and offers tourists the chance to try ice skating and have a fun time all around.

Taking place over a six-week period from November all the way to January, Winter Wonderland is packed full of festive activities to get you ready for Christmas.

The park is brilliant for families in the morning since it is normally a little quieter and you can take your time. At night, the park transforms into a whole different atmosphere with thousands of lights brightening up the London night sky.

Visit London in Winter

As the saying goes, “There’s no bad weather, only bad clothing”. It’s important that you have the right gear as the winter months arrive.

Come along with a good quality jacket and boots so you can prepare yourself to take on London during the winter months .

It’s a time to drink loads of mulled wine (or just wine) and maybe make the most of the late January sales if you visit during the London low season in February.

The winter months may not be the best season for outdoor activities, but they are the best time to visit London if you’re keen on shopping.

Things To Do in the London Weather in December

December is London’s most magical month with plenty of things to do, even in the December weather, London. Get into the festive mood by experiencing some of the city’s seasonal activities.

Visit an Outdoor Ice Skating Rink

When it comes to December in London , go ice skating at one of the many ice rinks in London. Nothing quite says winter like ice skating, now does it? There are locations all over London with some incredible backdrops where you can lace up a pair of skates and glide majestically with your significant other.

The Natural History Museum, Somerset House, and Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park are just a few of the best spots to go to.

The Hampton Court Palace ice rink is also a spectacular rink where you can skate around to the backdrop of the palace itself.

Admire the Vibrant Christmas Lights of Oxford Street

During this time, the shops are full of people gift hunting as they round off their Christmas day to-do lists – be sure to check out the stores in Oxford and Regent Street.

This is a pretty magical and enchanting experience, with the different lights being a stark contrast to the dark winter sky.

Visit one of Many Christmas Markets Around London

Go shopping for delicious food and little Christmas gifts at one of the many charming holiday markets and enjoy the concerts and carols around London’s biggest Christmas tree in Trafalgar Square.

The Southbank Centre market transforms the bank of the River Thames into a festive wonderland with delicious stalls selling food from all over the world.

Why not grab a few stocking stuffers while you’re at it and treat your loved ones to a few surprises? These are amazing as long as the London weather in December plays ball.

Things To Do in London in January

January is the low season and the best time to visit the UK if you’re on a budget. With the cold weather of the winter months comes some amazing bargains on the capital’s tourist attractions.

Being the low season and the coldest month in London, you’ll get to avoid crowds and long queues at sights like the London Eye, Madame Tussauds London, Thames River Cruise , West End theatres, and much more.

Watch the New Year’s Day Parade

The streets come alive every year on New Year’s Day on the West End. There are normally over 10 000 performers who come together and welcome the new year with cheerleaders, dancers, marching bands, and even acrobats livening up the celebrations.

It is a sight to behold watching all the performers brave the coldest month of the year in London.

Things To Do in London in February

Filled with romance, fashion, and pancakes, the month of February is a time for city-wide celebrations. It’s also the time of year when UK schools usually have their week-long half-term winter holidays, which means this is the best time to visit London as a family.

January and February are the low seasons, and the cheapest month to fly to London is February.

If you happen to visit London during the half term, you’ll find that most venues offer a host of family-friendly activities, and the popular tourist attractions will be busy.

The London Classic Car Show, London Fashion Week, and Chinese New Year’s Eve are some of the best events and activities to take part in during February.

And Valentine’s Day offers you an opportunity to enjoy some of the best restaurants and luxury hotel treats in London.

The weather in London in February is usually cold, so if you’re visiting London, be sure you wrap up in some warm clothes.

Chinese New Year

Every year, the West End is transformed into a giant celebration, where thousands upon thousands of people flock to participate. This party normally takes place between the end of January and early-to-mid February.

With Chinese food stalls everywhere, entertainment stages, and an incredible atmosphere, this is something not to be missed. Just remember to dress in red, it is the key colour to celebrate Chinese New Year and ensure that you will be brought good luck for the year ahead.

Visit London in the Spring Months

Spring is a welcome change after the gloomy winter seasons in London and as the days get lighter and the warm weather starts to arrive, so do the activities. The streets get busier, the skies shine brightly, and the fun moves from inside to outside.

Thanks to the spring London weather in March, this is when the outdoor cinemas, rooftop bars, pop-ups, street food events, beer gardens, and parks start opening up again.

This makes spring one of the best times to go to London for anyone who wants to explore without the threat of getting wet while out and about.

Things to Do in London in March

Spring arrives in London in March with lots of fun festivals, Mother’s Day celebrations and Irish cheer. Though the weather is still cold, it’s a lovely time to visit places like Kew Gardens, South Kensington Palace Gardens, Hyde Park, or any of the top gardens in the capital.

Some of the fantastic events held during March include St. Patrick’s Day, Pancake Day, Women of the World Festival, and Mother’s Day.

This is perhaps the best time to visit London if you enjoy festive celebrations.

Women of the World Festival

In what is one of, if not the largest and most comprehensive celebration of women, the Women of the World Festival aims to open conversations that can be life changing.

This is a three-day event over a weekend with a range of different activities such as panel discussions, debates, performances, and more.

The festival is open to anyone and anyone who identifies as a woman or non-binary.

Visit the Royal Parks

Just like you want to visit the parks for the shades of autumn in the colder months, you would need to visit the parks as soon as spring has sprung. These parks transform into another world entirely with the spring flowers blooming and all the colours of this season burst into life.

Things To Do in London in April

By April, the coldest months have ushered in a period of a few rain showers and more sunshine. It’s also marked by the blooming of cherry blossoms (or Sakura).

See the Cherry Blossoms in London

Some great places to catch them when in London are Greenwich Park, Kew Gardens, Kyoto Garden in Holland Park , Regent’s Park, and St Paul’s Cathedral. So, this is a great time to visit London if you love the spring flowers.

Greenwich Park is one of the city’s best spots to see the cherry blossoms, but for any photographers wanting something that will grab their attention, there are a few more locations.

Glasshouse Street in Soho is another stunning location with the contrast of the pink blossoms against the buildings.

For the top place, Cherry Tree Avenue in Battersea Park is where you need to go. The entire street is lined with cherry trees, making for an incredible experience and sight.

With Easter in April, most London attractions will make arrangements for special activities and exhibitions over the weekend and public holidays – from Good Friday through to Easter Monday.

Keep an eye out for egg hunts, Easter-themed afternoon teas , and chocolate-themed treats at any of the top chocolate shops in the capital.

Things To Do in London in May

May is for flower shows, cultural celebrations, and open-air theatres. With spring well underway, the month offers visitors an opportunity to meet the best designers, artists, and engineers during the London Craft Week.

May brings with it good weather and warmer daytime temperatures. This makes it a lovely time to visit alfresco parties and pop-up bars during London Wine Week. You’ll get to enjoy the special tasting sessions the city offers.

The Chelsea Flower Show

The world-famous flower show comes around in May when spring starts to paint gardens with its colourful paint brush. This prestigious show has been running for over 100 years and currently spans a six-day period where garden designers showcase their green thumbs.

The feature gardens are the ones that pull the most attention but also showcase gardens in a variety of settings.

The show calls the Chelsea Royal Hospital home and has for over a century. Just make sure to book your tickets in advance, as this incredibly popular event sells out fast. 

London History Day

Celebrate London’s heritage with events and exhibitions on London History Day, a unique day that focuses on what makes this city so unique. It takes place on the last day of the month, the 31st, which happens to be the day that Big Ben started ticking and keeping track of time.

This is no coincidence as it was chosen by the public to be that day due to its significance.

Photo London

You can explore and celebrate history day or head to Somerset House’s Photo London to check out top-quality photography from across the globe. The gallery features over 100 exhibitions, showcasing everything from the future to the present, and even photographs from the past.

For any art lover looking to add some fine art photography to their collection, this is the palace to go.

Exhibitions from galleries all over the world will be on display, as well as various talks held by notable figures — though these will be an additional cost. Booking a ticket in advance for this fair is highly recommended.

Final Thoughts on the Best Times to Visit London

Whether you find yourself visiting London in the summer months of the peak season or the chilly winter months of mid-December, you’ll find plenty of things to do in London.

Year-round, you’ll be able to visit many attractions, enjoy a food or wine festival or head to a concert at the Royal Albert Hall – just to name a few. Ultimately, the best time to visit will depend on what you want to do while you are in the city.

Now that you know when the best time to visit London Eye and other top attractions is, the only thing left is to book your tickets and plan your London itinerary

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When is the Best Time to Visit London?

The following post will provide tips on the best time to go to London. Consequently, it also helps you avoid the worst time to visit London.

We’ll focus on the most affordable time of year, the best weather, and other factors to consider before making a decision.

The Quick Answer

• Cheapest Times to Visit
• Best Weather
• Best Time of Year

Each Month in Perspective

• Weather in London by Season

If you’re looking for a fast and easy answer, it’ll be important to consider first what you want to see and do while you’re in London.

Cheapest Time to Visit London

Travelers who are more interested in saving money than in seeing everything or enjoying nice weather may want to consider the winter months of January and February .

Air travel is usually much more inexpensive, and you might be able to save a little extra money on tourist passes or other services.

And unless there is some big event or convention, even the hotels in central London will offer rooms at a concession.

Best Time for Weather

Like most of northern Europe, weather can be tricky. If you’re hoping to enjoy some good weather, spring will probably be a better time to visit.

Airfare and other things are often still quite affordable during the months of March and April .

The summer will typically provide the best weather, and this is when most people visit London.

However, since everyone visits during the summer, it’s also the busiest and most expensive time of the year.

Best Time for Outside Attractions

If you want to see attractions like Buckingham Palace , the only time this location offers visiting hours is during the summer. 

Thankfully, the Changing of the Guard takes place year-round, and there are plenty of things to see and do around Buckingham Palace which are open or available during other times of the year.

The summer is the busiest season for travel in London and all of England for that matter, but if you really want to see it all, it might also be the best time to visit the city.

Even so, it’s worth noting that you can see most major sites all year round.

Cheapest Times to Visit London

London is not a budget destination, but travelers looking for the best deal on airfare will likely find good prices during off-peak times.

What this means is that you’ll almost never get a good concession during the busiest time of the year.

This rules out a summer visit to London, but both the spring and the fall are excellent alternatives that won’t cost as much.

How Much Can You Save in the Winter?

The most affordable time to visit London will almost always be the winter months of January and February , as the holiday season is over and there’s not a whole lot going on.

Hotels in London are almost always busy, so there usually isn’t a season in which you can expect much better prices for your hotel room.

Visitors coming in January or February can expect lower airfare prices and potentially even concessions on tourist passes and fun activities.

How Much Can You Save in the Spring?

While March and April are usually also affordable months to visit, it’s worth noting that you might not find as many deals at this time of year.

In the spring, you’ll usually enjoy at least a few nice days, although there can also be a lot of rain during that time of year as well. 

Cheapest Months for Hotel Prices in London

There are a few things to keep in mind when trying to get the best prices on hotels in London.

The most important step is to book your room at least 90 days in advance.

Another key to consider is that prices tend to be lower from January - March than at any other time of the year.

Even so, the normal price is almost $200 per night at its lowest and close to $300 per night at its highest.

This is an expense you will have to be prepared to incur no matter when you choose to visit, though it's worth it to check out searches for concessionary hotel deals .

The last thing to consider is coming on a weekend because hotels tend to offer lower prices from Thursday - Sunday.

Cheapest Time to Fly to London

Airfare to London is almost always around $500 for a round-trip ticket between the months of January - May.

Prices also dip to around this level from August - November.

If you want to get the lowest possible price, consider visiting during these months and plan on booking your flight at least 3 weeks in advance.

These are the best ways to save money on airfare.

What Are the Cheapest Times With Good Weather?

The only problem with visiting in the late winter, early spring, and early fall are that you can usually expect at least a little bad weather. 

At times (like in October and November ), the level of rainfall is typically through the roof, and you can usually expect it to rain almost every day during those months.

That said, if you want to avoid bad weather while saving some money, consider spring and fall months like March , April , or September .

Although the weather isn't great, there are some fun activities to enjoy during the spring and fall, including events like Bonfire Night, music festivals, and more.

The football season typically runs from August-May, so chances are you'll also be able to catch a few matches during this time of year!

Since the weather will be bad, this might also be a good time to see some theatrical events.

There's almost always something at Royal Albert Hall , and typically plenty of great Off-Broadway musicals to attend at theatres in the West End.

Spring and early fall are also usually pretty good times to visit notable tourist attractions such as the Tower of London and Westminster Cathedral .

You can also escape the rain in London museums such as these:

• British Museum
• National Gallery
• Tate Modern
• Natural History Museum

Things to Know About Visiting During Off-Peak Seasons

One of the nice things about visiting during the off-peak seasons is that there are usually fewer people at the popular attractions. 

That said, some attractions are only open during the summer, so you won’t see everything if you come during the winter, spring or fall.

Even so, if you’re trying to avoid the crowds, it helps that the best time of year for this is also the most affordable time to visit London.

Best Months for London Weather

If your main concern is visiting London when the weather is nice, you should absolutely consider coming between the months of April and September .

The temperatures between April and September tend to range from 15C - 23C. There’s usually less rain in June and July , but more in May , August , and September .

The summer offers the best chance at excellent weather, but it’s also the busiest time of year for tourism in London.

The spring and early fall will most likely be better for visitors trying to avoid the crowds.

In addition to all those fun activities, there are also big events such as Wimbledon, street parties like the Notting Hill Carnival, and plenty of great music festivals to attend.

Best Time of the Year

It’s impossible to know what time of year is best to visit London without understanding the type of experience you want to have while you’re there.

This question is subjective, so consider the following factors before making any decisions.

Do You Want to Avoid Crowds?

If you don’t like being surrounded by a bunch of other people when you visit an attraction, the best time to visit will be during the off-peak seasons.

Despite the bad weather, the late winter is usually an excellent time to avoid crowds and enjoy easy, affordable access to notable sites and activities.

You may also want to consider the early spring and early fall months.

Do You Want to See Sites Like Buckingham Palace?

Locations like Buckingham Palace are only open during the summer, which limits the time frame in which you can visit if you want to see these attractions.

If you want to experience everything, consider coming in the summer. Just keep in mind it won’t be cheap and it will be crowded!

Do You Want to Avoid Bad Weather?

If the weather is a big concern and you really don’t like rainy days, it’s hard to beat the summer.

That said, if you’re also trying to save money, you might want to consider either the spring or fall.

Although there is often some rain in the spring and fall, it’s not as bad or as cold outside as it is during the winter.

Are You Trying to Save Money?

As we explained in the section on cheapest times to visit London , if you’re looking for great deals on airfare and other things, the late winter months of January and February will be your best bet.

Of course, in addition to excellent prices, you can also expect cold weather, a lot of rain or snow, and some attractions will be closed.

Considering All Factors

If you’re trying to save money, you want to enjoy some good weather, and avoiding crowds is important, the best time of year to visit London is probably March or April.

You might not get to visit Buckingham Palace at this time, but most other attractions will be open.

During this time of year, you can also expect that the weather will likely be nice for at least part of your visit, airfare prices will usually be cheap, and there won’t be as many tourists crowding popular sites.

Early spring is definitely the compromise between London’s busy peak season for tourism and the colder, less desirable months to visit.

This section will provide an idea of what to expect when you visit London, with information about various activities and attractions you might want to experience during each month.

If you're trying to save money on airfare, January is one of the best months to visit London.

While some activities won't make much sense during this time of year, there are plenty of fun things to see and do both indoors and outdoors.

Many ice skating rinks will still be open at the beginning of this month, and you might even notice a few holiday lighting displays are still up as well.

If you're here on January 1st, you might want to consider attending the New Year's Day Parade.

There are also a lot of great museums to visit which allow you to escape the gloomy and cold weather, including locations such as the British Museum, the National Gallery, and the Tate Modern.

Another fun idea is to see an Off-Broadway musical in London's West End.

While there will typically be a bit of snow this month, and it's usually quite cold, there are still quite a few reasons to consider visiting during this time of year.

For more ideas, make sure to check our post covering things to do in London in January.

This is another great time to visit if you want to save money on airfare, but there's not as much to do in London during the month of February.

Most of the same activities you can enjoy in January will also be a good idea during this month, with the exception of some ice skating rinks, as many of the locations constructed for the holidays will be closing for the season.

You can still expect some snow and plenty of cold weather this month, so a lot of outdoor activities won't be a good idea during February.

If you do want to get out of the house, there are usually at least a few different football matches to attend in London this month.

This is also usually the month when Kew Gardens hosts their Orchid Festival, giving you a glimpse of the colors of spring that are just around the corner.

For additional ideas, read our full post covering things to do in London during February .

Spring is almost here, so the weather is more likely to be a bit warmer this month than during the winter.

If you manage to visit during one of the warmer days of the month, you might even want to consider an outdoor activity like one of our pay-what-you-wish London walking tours!

This is also the month of Mother's Day, so if you're visiting with a mother, you might want to consider planning out a nice dinner or perhaps even an afternoon tea.

With the weather getting warmer, this might also be a good time to visit one of the many beautiful parks of London, including locations such as Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens.

March is of course the month of St. Patrick's Day, so you can look forward to a parade that runs from Piccadilly Circus to Whitehall and plenty of green beer being served at pubs all over the city.

For even more ideas, consider reading our post on things to do in London in March .

This is the month when the weather finally gets warm enough for a variety of fun outdoor activities, including pay-what-you-wish walking tours or even a cruise down the river Thames.

If you happen to visit during a particularly clear day, you might also want to consider going to View from the Shard or the Climb at the O2 to enjoy excellent views of the city.

April is the month of Easter, so you might want to think about visiting one of the historic churches of London such as St. Paul's Cathedral or Westminster Abbey .

This is also when you'll start to see a lot more concerts taking place in London, including major events such as the Underbelly Festival. Whatever you decide to do this month,

For more ideas, make sure to look at our post covering things to do in London during April .

While March and April are both usually great times to visit the public gardens of London, it's worth noting that May is the month of the Chelsea Flower Show.

If you're looking to enjoy the colors of spring, this is one of the best events to attend all year long!

Chances are there will be more warm days in May than during previous months, so this would also be a good time to visit some of the more noteworthy attractions such as the Tower of London, Tower Bridge , Westminster Abbey, and more.

The only problem with visiting in May is that it's pretty close to the peak season for tourism in London, which means you can expect much higher prices for airfare.

This is usually one of the best months for concerts and musicals, so if you're looking for a show to attend, make sure to read our post covering things to do in London in May , where we provide details about the best live performances and theatrical shows.

This is the first month of summer, and you should expect airfare to be at its most expensive during the summer months.

You might be able to get some good deals earlier in the month, but chances are it won't be cheap to visit in June.

One of the best things about visiting London in the summer is that all the best attractions are usually open during this time of year, including attractions like the London Eye and View from the Shard , because there are typically a lot of clear, sunny days; there are also a lot more cruises down the river Thames during this time of year.

As with other warm months, you can usually expect several noteworthy musical artists to be performing in June.

This is also usually the month of West End Live, an annual event in Trafalgar Square where you can enjoy some of the most popular musicals for free!

For even more ideas, consider looking at our post covering things to do in London in June .

This is one of the warmest months of the year in London, so you should be prepared to wear lighter clothing and use sunscreen.

If you're interested in seeing Buckingham Palace , this is typically the month when the State Rooms are opened to the public for a relatively short time (usually until September or October).

During the summer months, you might want to consider getting out on the river Thames on one of the many cruises throughout London.

This is also the month of Wimbledon, so fans of tennis might want to consider attending this event.

Hampton Court Palace hosts their annual flower show this month, and it's one of the last major events of its type for the year.

As usual, this is as good a time as any during the summer to see historic attractions and/or visit one of the many observation decks in the city.

For even more ideas, take a look at our post covering things to do in London during July .

It's still going to be quite warm in London during August, so you'll more than likely still require comfortable clothing and sunscreen if you choose to visit in August.

This is also the month of the Notting Hill Carnival, an annual celebration of Caribbean culture in London.

August is also when you can visit St. Paul's Cathedral after hours, as they will remain open until 9:30 pm on Thursday nights.

With the weather being warm, you might want to consider going on a pub crawl throughout London to discover some of the most historic and beloved pubs in the city.

For additional activities, check our post covering things to do in London in August .

Although the weather does tend to get a bit cooler in September, it's not always exactly a sudden and steep decline in temperatures.

If you're interested in outdoor activities such as a pay-what-you-wish London walking tour , this would be as good of a time as any!

This is usually the month of the Great River Race, also known as London's River Marathon, a boat race with more than 300 crews from around the world competing.

Speaking of the river race, September is also the month of the Totally Thames Festival, during which families can expect several fun activities such as face painting and regattas.

September also brings London Fashion Week, so anyone who is interested in the fashion world might want to attend some of those events.

For more ideas, make sure to read our post about things to do in London in September .

This is around the time when you can expect airfare prices to drop significantly, but that doesn't mean there's nothing to do during the month of October.

On the contrary, there are still plenty of great concerts to attend, musicals to see, and even some football matches you might enjoy.

The weather will start to get cold in October, and you can expect a decent amount of rain, so make sure to carry an umbrella with you wherever you go.

Although Halloween isn't celebrated much in London (or really England as a whole), there are usually at least a few events you might want to attend this month, including the Festival of the Dead.

If you are interested in seeing the spookier side of London, you might want to consider either a London ghost tour or perhaps even our Jack the Ripper tour !

For additional ideas, take a look at our post covering things to do in London during October .

If you're interested in saving money on airfare, this is one of the better times to visit London.

Early in November, you can look forward to Bonfire Night, otherwise known as Guy Fawkes Night, and you can expect to see a lot of fireworks during this public holiday.

Despite the cold weather, there are usually a lot of great musicals to see and concerts to attend this month.

November is also typically the month of the Regent Street Motor Show, a free event with a lot of interesting cars on display and interactive exhibits to enjoy.

This is also when they hold the Lord Mayor's Show, a parade of sorts that celebrates the new Lord Mayor of London.

For even more ideas, check our post about things to do in London in November .

If you visit in December, chances are that airfare will be quite affordable.

One of the benefits of visiting during December is the opportunity to experience this beautiful city during Christmas time.

We actually have a full post covering all of the fun and festive Christmas activities you can enjoy in London .

We also have posts about the following holiday tours and attractions:

• London Christmas Tours
• 9 London Christmas Markets
• Best London Christmas Lights
• 30 Christmas Shows in London
• Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park
• Somerset House Ice Skating Rink

As you can see, there are plenty of great holiday festivities and celebrations to enjoy in London during December, so if you're visiting with family, you might want to consider traveling during this month.

Just a week after Christmas Day is of course New Year's Eve with its fireworks, champagne, and parties.

Following that, the New Year's Day Parade is another excellent family activity.

Even if you're not interested in public holidays like Christmas, you can still enjoy other holiday events during this time of year.

Speaking of saving money, Boxing Day is an annual sales event that typically takes place on the day after Christmas.

If you choose to visit during the month of December, this is a great opportunity to do some shopping as well!

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Best Time To Visit London

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What is the best time to visit London?

The best time to visit London weather-wise is during the spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October). During these months, the temperatures are generally mild, ranging from around 10 to 20 degrees Celsius (50 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit). The weather is usually pleasant, with longer daylight hours, making it ideal for exploring the city on foot and enjoying outdoor activities. Budget-wise, visiting London during the off-peak season can be more affordable. The winter months (December to February) and late autumn (November) typically have lower hotel rates and cheaper airfares than the peak summer season. Additionally, visiting on weekdays rather than weekends can help you find better deals on accommodations and attractions. However, it's important to keep in mind that London is a year-round destination with something to offer in every season. If you plan well and research in advance, you can find budget-friendly options and activities regardless of the time of year you visit.

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• Rooftop bars, beer gardens and open green spaces are popular attractions.
• It is also the best season to visit all things related to royalty. The State Rooms at Buckingham Palace are open for tours from July to August, and the Clarence House opens in August alone. The Changing of Guards happens every day from April to July. The highlight is the Queen’s birthday parade, called Trooping the Color in June.
• Shopping is also a popular thing to do with many summer sales, such as the Harrod’s Summer sale.
• Besides, the summer vacations are the best time for family vacationing coupled with free transport within the city that is provided for children below 11 years.
• Museums and galleries are crowded, and the tickets of some of West End’s best shows are booked in June. The Natural History Museum, London Transport Museum and Science Museum are famous amongst kids.
• The London Theatre’s Kids Week begins in August which has one free child ticket against an adult’s.
• The Wimbledon Tennis Championships one of the most fabulous sporting events takes place during this season.
• The annual London Pride parade takes place in June, whereas the Notting Hill Carnival in August is a cultural extravaganza.

London in Autumn (September - November)

• October is the time for half term breaks at school, and there can be an increase in crowds at museums, galleries and theatres.
• The city landscape gives way to the cool look, yet it is the cultural activities that occur during the fall that are the season’s highlight.
• The Totally Thames Festival in September, the Frieze Art Festival in Regent’s Park and the Museums at Night are some beautiful events in October.
• The London Fashion Week in September and the BFI London Film Festival in early October need to be booked in advance.
• The Guy Fawkes Night in November is when the night lights up with fireworks.
• And Halloween grips the city with events, such as Haunted Medieval Banquet at St. Katharine Docks or diving in the dark with sharks at the London’s Sea Life Aquarium.

London in Winter (December- February)

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The Best Time To Travel To London

Published: October 14, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Marijo Endres

• Arts & Culture
• Plan Your Trip
• Travel Tips

Introduction

London, the capital city of England, is a vibrant and culturally rich metropolis that attracts millions of visitors each year. From its fascinating history and iconic landmarks to its thriving arts scene and diverse culinary offerings, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this captivating city.

But when is the best time to travel to London? The answer to that question depends on a variety of factors, including weather preferences, budget considerations, and desired activities. In this article, we will explore the different seasons in London and provide you with insights to help you plan your trip to the largest city in the United Kingdom.

Whether you are a history buff eager to explore the historic landmarks, a food enthusiast who can’t wait to delve into the city’s culinary delights, or a culture lover yearning to immerse yourself in its art and music scenes, London offers something for everyone. But before you pack your bags, let’s take a closer look at the different seasons and factors that can influence your travel plans.

Weather in London

The weather in London is known for its unpredictability, with frequent changes throughout the year. The city experiences a temperate maritime climate, which means mild summers and cool winters. When planning your trip, it’s important to consider the weather conditions to ensure you pack appropriately and make the most of your visit.

Summer in London, spanning from June to September, is generally the warmest and driest time of the year. Average temperatures range from 15°C (59°F) to 25°C (77°F), making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploring the city’s many parks and gardens. However, it’s important to note that London can experience occasional heatwaves, so it’s always a good idea to carry sunscreen and stay hydrated.

Autumn in London, from September to November, brings cooler temperatures and a colorful display of falling leaves. Average temperatures range from 10°C (50°F) to 20°C (68°F), making it a pleasant time to visit. This season is also a great time to explore the city’s museums and art galleries, as well as enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of local markets and festivals.

Winter in London, from December to February, is characterized by chilly temperatures and occasional rainfall. Average temperatures range from 2°C (36°F) to 8°C (46°F). While the weather may deter some visitors, this season offers unique experiences like ice skating at iconic locations such as Somerset House or Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park. It’s also a great time to explore indoor attractions like museums, theaters, and traditional London pubs.

Spring in London, from March to May, brings milder temperatures and blooming flowers throughout the city. Average temperatures range from 5°C (41°F) to 15°C (59°F). This season is perfect for strolling through the picturesque parks, such as Hyde Park and Kew Gardens, and enjoying the vibrant cherry blossoms. Spring is also a popular time for cultural events and festivals, including the prestigious Chelsea Flower Show.

Regardless of the season you choose to visit, it’s always a good idea to pack layers and be prepared for sudden weather changes. Bringing a lightweight raincoat or umbrella is advisable, as London is known for its occasional rain showers. With the appropriate clothing, you can fully enjoy your time in the city, no matter the weather.

Peak Tourist Season

The peak tourist season in London typically falls during the summer months, from June to August. This is when the city sees an influx of tourists from around the world, eager to explore all that London has to offer. The pleasant weather and longer daylight hours during this time make it an ideal season for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

During the peak tourist season, popular attractions such as the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and the British Museum can be quite crowded. Long queues and wait times are common, especially at popular tourist spots. It is advisable to book tickets in advance and arrive early to beat the crowds.

In addition to the famous landmarks, London’s parks and gardens are also bustling with activity during the summer months. Hyde Park, Regent’s Park, and Greenwich Park are popular choices for picnics, outdoor concerts, and recreational activities. Take a leisurely stroll or rent a bicycle to explore the scenic beauty of these green spaces.

The peak season also brings a variety of events and festivals to London. From Wimbledon, the prestigious tennis tournament, to Notting Hill Carnival, one of the largest street festivals in Europe, there is always something exciting happening in the city during the summer months. The vibrant atmosphere and cultural celebrations make it a thrilling time to visit.

However, it’s important to note that with the increased number of tourists, prices for accommodation and flights tend to be higher during the peak season. It is advisable to book your accommodations well in advance to secure the best rates and availability. Additionally, dining out and other leisure activities may also be more expensive during this time.

If you prefer a more relaxed and less crowded experience, it might be worth considering visiting London during the shoulder seasons – spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November). During these periods, the weather is still pleasant, and the city is relatively quieter, allowing you to explore the attractions and immerse yourself in the local culture without the large crowds.

Off-Peak Tourist Season

If you prefer to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more laid-back experience, visiting London during the off-peak tourist season can be a great option. This refers to the periods when tourist numbers are lower, offering a more relaxed atmosphere and potentially better deals on accommodations and flights.

One of the best times to visit during the off-peak season is in the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) months. The weather during these seasons is pleasant, with milder temperatures and fewer rainfall compared to the winter months. The city’s parks and gardens are in full bloom in the spring, creating a picturesque setting for leisurely walks and picnics.

In addition to the appealing weather, the off-peak season in London offers several advantages for tourists. The lines at popular attractions and museums are significantly shorter, allowing you to spend more time exploring and less time waiting. This means you can fully immerse yourself in the city’s rich history and culture without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

Moreover, the off-peak season provides an opportunity to discover hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path attractions that might be overlooked during the busy summer months. From exploring vibrant neighborhoods like Shoreditch and Camden Town to visiting lesser-known museums and galleries, you can truly get a sense of the city’s authentic charm and local life.

Another significant advantage of visiting London in the off-peak season is the potential for cost savings. Accommodation prices tend to be lower, and you may find better deals on flights and attractions. Restaurants and bars might also offer special menus or promotions, allowing you to indulge in the city’s renowned food scene at a more affordable price.

It’s important to note that while the off-peak season offers many advantages, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, the weather can be more unpredictable, so it’s essential to pack layers and be prepared for possible showers. Additionally, some attractions and outdoor activities, such as open-air markets and festivals, may have limited operating hours or be closed during specific periods.

Festivals and Events

London is a city that knows how to celebrate, with a calendar full of exciting festivals and events throughout the year. From cultural extravaganzas to music festivals, there is always something happening that will pique your interest and make your visit to London even more memorable.

One of the most iconic events in London is the Changing of the Guard ceremony, which takes place outside Buckingham Palace. This daily spectacle showcases the precision and pageantry of the British monarchy and attracts visitors from around the world. Be sure to check the schedule in advance to catch this captivating display.

For music lovers, the summer months offer a myriad of festivals and concerts to satisfy all tastes. The British Summer Time Festival in Hyde Park features a lineup of world-renowned musicians and bands performing in a stunning outdoor setting. If you’re a fan of classical music, the BBC Proms is a must-visit event, with a series of orchestral concerts held throughout the summer in venues like the Royal Albert Hall.

One of the most vibrant and colorful events in London is the Notting Hill Carnival, held annually in late August. This Caribbean-inspired carnival brings the streets of Notting Hill alive with vibrant costumes, energetic music, and tantalizing food stalls. It’s a celebration of London’s multicultural heritage and a truly unforgettable experience.

Art enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the Frieze Art Fair, held in October in Regent’s Park. This prestigious art event showcases contemporary artworks from galleries all over the world and offers a unique opportunity to experience the cutting-edge of the art world. Similarly, the London Design Festival in September celebrates creativity and design through a series of exhibitions, installations, and talks.

Christmas in London is a magical time, with festive events and markets transforming the city into a winter wonderland. The Winter Wonderland event in Hyde Park features ice skating, fairground rides, and a bustling Christmas market. You can also explore the enchanting Christmas lights and displays along Oxford Street and Regent Street.

These are just a few examples of the many festivals and events that take place in London throughout the year. In addition to these larger events, the city is always buzzing with cultural activities, theater shows, and art exhibitions. Regardless of when you visit, you’re bound to find something that will enhance your experience and allow you to immerse yourself in London’s vibrant cultural scene.

Budget Considerations

When planning your trip to London, it’s important to consider the budget and make choices that align with your financial means. The cost of visiting the city can vary depending on several factors, including the season, accommodation choices, dining options, and activities you plan to engage in.

Accommodation can be one of the major expenses during your stay in London. The city offers a wide range of options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels and vacation rentals. If you’re looking to save money, consider staying in areas slightly outside the city center or booking your accommodation in advance to secure better deals.

Another significant budget consideration is dining. London is known for its diverse culinary scene, ranging from street food markets to Michelin-starred restaurants. While dining at renowned establishments can be a memorable experience, it can also be costly. If you’re on a tighter budget, you can explore local street food markets, affordable eateries, or even opt for self-catering options to save money on meals.

Transportation costs should also be factored into your budget. London has an extensive public transportation system, including the iconic double-decker buses and the underground tube network. To save money, consider using an Oyster card or contactless payment, as they offer discounted fares compared to single tickets. Additionally, walking is a great way to explore central London, as many attractions are within a reasonable distance of each other.

When it comes to attractions and activities, London offers a mix of free and paid options. Many of the city’s renowned museums and art galleries, such as the British Museum and the National Gallery, have free entry. However, some popular tourist attractions, such as the Tower of London or the London Eye, may require purchased tickets. Consider prioritizing the attractions that interest you the most and allocate your budget accordingly.

Lastly, it’s essential to set aside some extra funds for unexpected expenses or additional experiences that may arise during your trip. London is a dynamic city with numerous entertainment options, from West End theatre shows to shopping in iconic department stores like Harrods. Having a little extra padding in your budget will allow you to take advantage of these opportunities without putting a strain on your finances.

Regardless of your budget, with careful planning and research, it is possible to have a fulfilling experience in London. By making conscious choices in terms of accommodation, dining, transportation, and activities, you can ensure a memorable trip that aligns with your financial goals and allows you to make the most of this incredible city.

London is a city that captivates visitors with its rich history, cultural vibrancy, and iconic landmarks. Whether you choose to visit during the peak tourist season or the off-peak months, you’ll find a city that offers something for everyone.

During the peak tourist season, from June to August, London comes alive with bustling crowds, outdoor festivals, and longer daylight hours. This is the time to explore the famous landmarks, enjoy vibrant events, and take advantage of the city’s green spaces. However, it’s important to be prepared for higher prices and larger crowds.

If you prefer a more relaxed experience and lower costs, the off-peak season, such as the spring and autumn months, can offer a quieter and more intimate visit. You’ll have the chance to explore hidden gems, enjoy shorter lines at attractions, and potentially find better deals on accommodations and flights.

Additionally, London’s calendar is filled with exciting festivals and events throughout the year. From music festivals to art fairs and cultural celebrations, there’s always something happening that will enrich your visit and expose you to the city’s unique atmosphere.

When it comes to budget considerations, careful planning and smart choices can help you make the most of your trip without breaking the bank. From finding affordable accommodation options to exploring inexpensive or free attractions, there are ways to experience London on a variety of budgets.

In conclusion, regardless of the time of year or your budget, London is a city that promises to leave a lasting impression. With its rich history, diverse culture, and vibrant atmosphere, it’s a destination that offers endless possibilities for exploration and discovery. So, pack your bags and get ready to immerse yourself in the charm and magic of London.

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When to Go in London

The principal art season (for theater, concerts, art shows) falls between September and May, leaving the summer months for festivals and park-going. A few royal attractions, such as the state rooms of Buckingham Palace, are only open in the summer when the Queen decamps to Scotland. In summer, when the weather is warmest, the sun sets after 10pm, and half of Europe takes its annual holiday, the airfares are higher, as are hotel rates, and the queues for most of the tourist attractions, such as the London Eye and the Tower of London, might make you wish you’d come in March. For decent prices and lighter crowds, go in spring or fall—April and October seem to have the best confluence of mild weather, pretty plantings, and tolerable crowds. Prices are lowest in mid-winter, but a number of minor sights, such as historic houses, sometimes close from November to March, and the biggest annual events take place during the warmer months.

When You'll Find Bargains

The cheapest time to fly to London is usually during the off season: from late October to mid-December and from January to mid-March. In the last few years, long-haul airlines in particular have offered some irresistible fares during these periods. Remember that weekday flights are often cheaper than weekend fares.

Rates generally increase between March and June, and hit their peak in high travel seasons between late June and September, and in December for the run-up to Christmas and New Year. July and August are also when most Europeans take their holidays, and so as well as higher prices you have to deal with more crowds and limited availability of the best hotel rooms.

You can avoid crowds to some extent, by planning trips for November or January through March. Sure, it may be rainy and cold -- but London doesn't shut down when the tourists thin out a little! In fact, it's a 365-days-a-year tourism city, and the winter season includes some of London's best theatre, opera, ballet, and classical music offerings. Additionally, hotel prices can drop by 20% (unheard of during peak travel times). By arriving after the winter holidays, you can also take advantage of post-Christmas sales, which these days start as early as December 26 or 27. There's usually another major sales period in stores in midsummer.

Public Holidays

England observes  eight public holidays (also known as "bank holidays") spread throughout the year: New Year's Day (January 1); Good Friday and Easter Monday (usually April); May Bank Holiday (first Monday in May); Spring Bank Holiday (usually last Monday in May, but occasionally the first in June); August Bank Holiday (last Monday in August); Christmas Day (December 25); Boxing Day (December 26). If a marked date such as Christmas Day falls on a Saturday or Sunday, the public holiday rolls over to the following Monday.

London’s Average Daytime Temperatures & Rainfall

                                Jan    Feb   Mar   Apr   May  June  July   Aug   Sept   Oct    Nov   Dec

Temp. ([dg]F)              39     39     43     46     52     58     62     62     57     51     44     42

Temp. ([dg]C)              3       3       6       7      11     14     16     16     13     10      6       5

Rainfall (in.)                 3.1      2      2.4    2.1    2.2    2.2    1.8    2.2    2.7    2.9    3.1    3.1

Rainfall (mm)                49      39      40      43      47      52      59      57      56      62      59      53

Note : This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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The Best Time To Travel To London, England: A Guide For Explorers

• Last updated May 10, 2024
• Difficulty Beginner

• Category Travel

London, England is a city steeped in history, culture, and captivating landmarks. From the iconic Big Ben to the majestic Buckingham Palace, there is no shortage of sights to behold in this bustling metropolis. But when is the best time to travel to London? With its temperate climate and year-round attractions, the answer may not be as straightforward as one might think. In this guide for explorers, we will delve into the different seasons and events that make each time of year unique in London, helping you determine the best time to plan your visit. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a theater lover, or a foodie looking to savor culinary delights, this guide will ensure that you make the most of your time in the vibrant capital of England. So grab your umbrella and prepare for an unforgettable journey through the best time to travel to London, England.

What You'll Learn

Best time to visit london, weather in london throughout the year, london's festivals and events, off-peak vs. peak season in london.

London, the vibrant capital city of England, is a popular tourist destination for people from all around the world. However, deciding the best time to visit London can be a little tricky, as the weather and crowds can vary throughout the year. To help you plan your trip effectively, we have compiled a guide to the best time to visit London.

Spring (March to May):

Spring in London is a delightful time to visit, with mild temperatures and longer daylight hours. The city starts to come alive with colorful flowers blooming in parks and gardens, including the famous Chelsea Flower Show in May. It is also a great time to explore outdoor attractions such as Hyde Park or take a leisurely stroll along the River Thames. Do keep in mind that the weather can be unpredictable, so it's advisable to pack layering clothing.

Summer (June to August):

Summer is the peak tourist season in London, as the city experiences warm temperatures and longer days. This is the perfect time to enjoy outdoor activities like picnics in the parks and watching street performers in Covent Garden. Moreover, summer brings a plethora of events and festivals, including Wimbledon and the Notting Hill Carnival. However, it is important to note that summer also attracts large crowds, so expect longer queues at popular attractions and higher prices for accommodation.

Autumn (September to November):

Autumn in London is a magical time, with the leaves turning shades of gold and red. The weather remains mild, making it pleasant for sightseeing. This is a great time to visit museums and indoor attractions, as the city tends to be less crowded. Additionally, you can catch some amazing deals on flights and accommodations during the shoulder season. Don't forget to bring a light jacket as temperatures tend to drop towards the end of autumn.

Winter (December to February):

Winter in London can be quite cold and wet, but it offers its own unique charm. The city is beautifully decorated with festive lights and you can experience the magical atmosphere of Christmas markets and ice skating rinks. Moreover, you can catch world-class theater performances in the West End or shop for designer brands during the January sales. Just be prepared for shorter daylight hours and pack warm clothing to stay comfortable during your visit.

Ultimately, there is no "bad" time to visit London, as the city has something to offer year-round. However, if you want to avoid the large crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring or autumn. Remember to check the weather forecast before your trip and pack accordingly. So, whether you are visiting for the iconic landmarks like Big Ben and Buckingham Palace or immersing yourself in the vibrant culture and nightlife of London, plan your trip during the best time that suits your preferences.

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London, the capital of England, is a beautiful and vibrant city that attracts millions of visitors from around the world every year. With its rich history, iconic landmarks, and diverse culture, it is no wonder why so many people choose to travel to London. When planning your trip to London, one important factor to consider is the weather. The weather in London can be quite unpredictable, so it is crucial to know what to expect in order to make the most of your visit.

Spring is a pleasant time to visit London, as the weather starts to warm up and the city comes alive with beautiful blooms. However, it can still be quite chilly, especially in March. Make sure to pack some warmer layers and a raincoat, as showers are common during the spring months. The average daytime temperature ranges from 10 to 15 degrees Celsius (50 to 59 degrees Fahrenheit) in March and increases to around 15 to 20 degrees Celsius (59 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit) in May.

Summer is a popular time to visit London, as the city experiences longer daylight hours and warmer temperatures. However, it can also get quite crowded with tourists. During this time, the average daytime temperature ranges from 20 to 25 degrees Celsius (68 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit), with occasional heatwaves that can push the temperature even higher. It is advisable to pack lightweight and breathable clothing, as well as sunscreen, to protect yourself from the sun.

Autumn in London is a beautiful season, as the city's parks and gardens display stunning colors of red, orange, and gold. The weather during this time is mild, with temperatures ranging from 10 to 20 degrees Celsius (50 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit) in September and gradually decreasing to around 5 to 15 degrees Celsius (41 to 59 degrees Fahrenheit) in November. While rain showers are still common, they are usually less frequent compared to spring and summer. Layering your clothing is recommended, as the weather can vary throughout the day.

Winter in London can be cold and damp, with temperatures ranging from 0 to 10 degrees Celsius (32 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit). It is not uncommon to experience frost and even occasional snowfall. It is essential to pack warm clothing, including a coat, hat, scarf, and gloves, to stay comfortable during your visit. Despite the chill, London during the winter months has its own charm, with festive decorations and markets adding a magical touch to the city.

In conclusion, the best time to travel to London depends on your personal preferences and what you would like to experience during your visit. If you enjoy mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and longer days, spring and summer are the ideal seasons. On the other hand, if you are drawn to autumn colors and a more comfortable crowd, autumn can be a great choice. If you don't mind the colder weather and want to experience the festive season in London, winter can be a magical time to visit. Regardless of the season, make sure to check the weather forecast before your trip and pack accordingly to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay in London.

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When planning a trip to London, it's always a good idea to take into consideration the festivals and events that the city has to offer. Whether you're a music lover, a foodie, or a history enthusiast, there is always something happening in London. To help you plan your visit, here are some of the top festivals and events in London:

• Notting Hill Carnival: Held every August bank holiday weekend, the Notting Hill Carnival is the largest street festival in Europe. It originated in the 1960s as a way for the Caribbean community in London to celebrate their culture and heritage. The festival features colorful parades, live music, and delicious Caribbean food. It's a vibrant and energetic event that shouldn't be missed.
• Chelsea Flower Show: If you have a green thumb or simply enjoy beautiful gardens, the Chelsea Flower Show is a must-visit event. Held in the grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea in May, this world-famous flower show showcases stunning floral displays, innovative garden designs, and the latest gardening trends. It's a great opportunity to get inspiration for your own garden or simply admire the beauty of the exhibits.
• Winter Wonderland: If you're visiting London in winter, make sure to check out Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park. This festive event usually starts in late November and runs until early January. It features a large ice rink, a Christmas market, a giant Ferris wheel, and many other attractions. You can shop for unique gifts, enjoy traditional German food and drink, and even take a ride on the ice slide. It's a magical and enchanting experience for both young and old.
• The Proms: If you appreciate classical music, don't miss the Proms. This world-famous classical music festival takes place at the Royal Albert Hall every summer. The season usually starts in mid-July and runs until early September. The Proms offer a wide range of concerts, from orchestral performances to chamber music and choral recitals. The Last Night of the Proms, in particular, is a highlight of the festival with its enthusiastic audience participation and patriotic music.
• Changing of the Guard: If you're interested in the pomp and pageantry of the British monarchy, don't miss the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace. This daily event features the Queen's Guard handing over their duties to the New Guard. The ceremony takes place outside Buckingham Palace and is accompanied by music from the military band. It's a unique and iconic experience that attracts visitors from all over the world.

These are just a few examples of the many festivals and events that take place in London throughout the year. Whether you're visiting in spring, summer, autumn, or winter, there's always something happening in the city. Make sure to check the dates and plan your visit accordingly to get the most out of your trip to London.

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London, England is a bustling and vibrant city that attracts millions of tourists each year. However, deciding when to visit can greatly impact your experience and the cost of your trip. Understanding the difference between off-peak and peak season in London can help you make a well-informed decision.

Off-peak season in London typically falls between November and March. During this time, the temperatures are colder, and the city is less crowded with tourists. This can be a great opportunity to explore popular attractions without the long lines and heavy crowds. Additionally, you may find cheaper flights and accommodation during off-peak season, making it a more budget-friendly time to visit.

However, it's important to note that the weather during off-peak season can be unpredictable, with chilly temperatures and occasional rain. It's advisable to pack layers and be prepared for varying weather conditions. Additionally, some attractions may have reduced hours or be closed for maintenance during this time, so it's essential to check their schedules in advance.

On the other hand, peak season in London occurs between May and September. This is when the weather is generally warmer and more pleasant, making it an ideal time to explore the city's outdoor attractions and parks. Moreover, London comes alive during peak season, with an abundance of festivals, events, and cultural celebrations taking place. From the renowned Wimbledon tennis championship to the colorful Notting Hill Carnival, there is always something happening in the city during peak season.

However, with the increased number of tourists, expect larger crowds and longer queues at popular attractions. Prices for flights and accommodation during peak season also tend to be higher, so it's advisable to book in advance to secure better deals. Additionally, certain attractions may require advance bookings to avoid disappointment.

Ultimately, the best time to travel to London depends on your personal preferences and priorities. If you prefer milder weather and want to avoid crowds, off-peak season may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you want to experience the vibrant atmosphere and take part in exciting events, peak season will be more suitable.

No matter when you decide to visit, London has something to offer year-round. With its rich history, iconic landmarks, world-class museums, and diverse cultural scene, it is a city that never fails to captivate its visitors. So plan your trip well, consider the pros and cons of off-peak and peak seasons, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure in London!

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Frequently asked questions.

The best time to visit London is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and the city is less crowded.

London's summer weather is usually mild, with temperatures ranging from 16°C to 24°C (61°F to 75°F). It can occasionally get hotter, but it is generally a pleasant time to visit.

Winter in London can be cold and damp, but it can also be a magical time to visit, with festive decorations, Christmas markets, and ice skating rinks. It's a great time to experience London's cozy pubs and indoor attractions.

London is known for its vibrant events and festivals. Some popular ones include the Notting Hill Carnival in August, the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, and the fireworks display on New Year's Eve.

London can get quite crowded during peak tourist season, especially in the summer months of July and August. It is advisable to book accommodation and attractions in advance to ensure availability during this time.

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How to avoid being pickpocketed? - London Forum

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I usually travel in Autumn and Winter so I can put my wallet in my inside zipped jacket pocket, but in summer I will be in shirt and jeans!

I am thinking to take my shoulder crossbody bag that I can put front, it can contain both my wallet and camera, what do you think?

I am a guy so no handbag

Here's an example of what I am thinking about:

https://img.grouponcdn.com/stores/tJQuywWjPKtGGvb3Y1XsyscSpmg/storespi13911583-1400x840/v1/c870x524.jpg

If you have better suggestions please share

31 replies to this topic

By all means buy that bag you've linked to if it gives you peace of mind.

Consider looking for phone wrist lanyards on Amazon - I got one for my trip just for peace of mind, though no one is going to want my old banged up phone anyway.

Theft of wallet from a jacket pocket left over the back of a chair in a busy cafe

Theft of a purse from an open bag left on the floor under a restaurant table: thieves come and crouch down by your table to show you a map and ask for directions while their hand goes under the table to your bag.

I know someone personally who was stabbed (in the leg). I know someone else who was mugged for their phone at Old St station back in February. Only a few weeks ago I was at a red light on Regent Street when I saw a young girl just about to make a call when a bloke on a bike snatched the phone out of her hand and made off very swiftly. I know a few women who have been sexually assaulted on busy tubes.

Most of the wallet/purse snatch stories I’ve heard or read are from tourists travelling in groups or families - even though they are convinced it was doubled locked in a secret inside pocket. I think they are more concerned about talking to each other than putting their things away safely.

Have a good trip, London is generally a safe city.

Just take the same precautions that you would in any large city, although I think I take those same precautions when I'm out in my small home town. Why wouldn't you?

Don't be alarmed about pickpockets and don't over think things. Sensible precautions like not displaying your valuables and leaving them in easily accessible places will further reduce the already very low odds of becoming a victim.

Pickpockets are clever but the majority of incidents will be opportunistic where a criminal sees a wallet in a back pocket and takes it. The example of theft of a phone from a bike is another example.

Pickpockets operate in busy areas and tourists are more likely to be distracted by what’s around them than someone who walks down a street every day. Pickpockets take advantage of that distraction.

You won’t be able to avoid crowded areas where pickpockets can operate more easily. Take sensible precautions - be aware of your surroundings, don’t leave valuables on show, as has been said watch out for thieves on bikes as this is currently a method of choice. Lanyards, cross body bags - with the zip/way in visible to you will make you a less easy target.

https://www.met.police.uk/police-forces/metropolitan-police/areas/campaigns/2022/staying-safe-in-london/#:~:text=Beware%20of%20pickpockets,shout%20out%20to%20warn%20others.

If you see someone pickpocket someone or about to call out - a tourist was about to be pickpocketed on a bus in Rome and called out, locals then got involved and the pickpocket jumped off at the next stop. They don’t want attention. I still remember this 20 years later.

I thought phone snatch using motorcycles had died out since the Met got permission for "tactical contact" (aka ramming) a couple of years ago. Nobody likes road rash! 😂

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