London Weather by Month: What to Expect Year-Round

London sits in southeastern England and experiences a temperate maritime climate, heavily influenced by the North Atlantic. Winters are mild by European standards, summers are warm rather than hot, and rainfall is distributed reasonably evenly across all 12 months. The city rarely experiences extreme heat or prolonged cold.

Winter

December through February brings the coldest temperatures. Average daytime highs hover around 8 degrees Celsius. Snow is possible but infrequent; when it does fall, it rarely settles for more than a day or two. Fog is more common than snow and can reduce visibility significantly, particularly in December and January. Days are short, with sunrise around 8am and sunset by 4pm at the winter solstice.

Spring and Autumn

Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are transitional seasons with changeable conditions. Spring brings longer days and flowering parks, while autumn delivers cooler, breezier weather. Both seasons are prone to showers. Average temperatures range from around 10 to 17 degrees Celsius across these months.

Summer

London summers are warm and can be sunny. Average July highs reach around 23 degrees Celsius, though heatwaves pushing into the low to mid-30s have become more frequent in recent years. The UK Health Security Agency issues heat health alerts during these periods, particularly for elderly residents.

What to Pack

A waterproof jacket and layered clothing are practical for any season. Sunscreen is worth carrying in June, July and August. The city's extensive parks and outdoor spaces are best enjoyed during long summer evenings when daylight extends past 9pm.

Sources: Met Office: UK Climate, UK Health Security Agency.

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