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Contents
- The climate of London
- The best time to visit London
- The worst time to visit London
- Spring weather in London
- Summer weather in London
- Autumn weather in London
- Winter weather in London
- Weather in January
- Weather in February
- Weather in March
- Weather in April
- Weather in May
- Weather in June
- Weather in July
- Weather in August
- Weather in September
- Weather in October
- Weather in November
- Weather in December
- Frequently asked questions
- Average temperature
- Average pressure
- Average wind speed
- Average humidity
- Average rainfall
- Average rainfall days
- Average snowfall
- Average snowfall days
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
- Average sunshine days
- Average UV index
- Average cloud cover
- Average visibility
The large Thames river overlooking the Westminster Palace and the Big Ben clock tower in London, United Kingdom
The climate of London
Belonging to the Köppen climate classification Cfb, the city of London experiences a marine west coast climate with warm summers. This classification reflects the city's geographical location within the British Isles, situated at the southeastern end of England. As the country's capital, London faces a variety of weather changes throughout the year.
Overall, London's weather swings are moderate, with rainfall occurring relatively evenly throughout the year. The volume of rainfall increases slightly from June to August, peaking at 45mm in June, and reaches its lowest at 22mm in April. Snowfall, on the other hand, is quite rare and typically occurs only in the months from December till February with a significant drop afterward.
As for temperature, the summer months from June to August have a higher temperature range from 19.8°C to 22.3°C, while the winter months from December to February experience a lower range from 2.2°C to 7.8°C. London's relative humidity remains consistent around mid-70s to high 80s%. Daylight hours are longer in the summer months with up to 16.5 hours per day in June, and shorter in winter, dwindling to a mere 7.9 hours per day in December.
Overall, London's weather swings are moderate, with rainfall occurring relatively evenly throughout the year. The volume of rainfall increases slightly from June to August, peaking at 45mm in June, and reaches its lowest at 22mm in April. Snowfall, on the other hand, is quite rare and typically occurs only in the months from December till February with a significant drop afterward.
As for temperature, the summer months from June to August have a higher temperature range from 19.8°C to 22.3°C, while the winter months from December to February experience a lower range from 2.2°C to 7.8°C. London's relative humidity remains consistent around mid-70s to high 80s%. Daylight hours are longer in the summer months with up to 16.5 hours per day in June, and shorter in winter, dwindling to a mere 7.9 hours per day in December.
The best time to visit London
The most ideal time for visiting London falls between late spring and early summer, particularly May and June. During these months, the temperature ranges from 14.3°C to 19.8°C, providing a comfortable climate for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Furthermore, travellers can enjoy up to 16.5 hours of daylight in June, maximizing their exploration time. Also, from May to June, the rainfall is relatively lower than other months, varying between 22mm and 26mm.
The worst time to visit London
Although London experiences moderate weather changes, the least preferred time to visit is between November and February. The city experiences its coldest temperatures, from 2.2°C to 7.8°C, during these periods. Additionally, the amount of daylight is limited to less than 9 hours per day. Rainfall increases to 34mm in November and 37mm in December while the likelihood of snowfall also increases, with December and January showing the most snowfall at 2mm and 9mm respectively.
Spring weather in London
From March to May, London experiences spring weather. March introduces a gradual rise in temperature, from a low of 3.7°C to a high of 10.6°C. By May, temperatures range from 8.3°C to 16.8°C. Simultaneously, the amount of daylight begins to lengthen from 11.9 hours in March to 15.6 hours by May. Although rainfall increases during this season from 24mm to 26mm, it is still quite manageable for tourists.
Summer weather in London
June kicks off the summer season, with temperatures continuing to rise, ranging from 11°C to 22.3°C in July. However, the months of summer receive the highest volumes of rainfall, with June witnessing up to 45mm. Despite the rain, the city becomes a centre of activities with up to 16.5 hours of daylight daily, and an average UV index of 5.
Autumn weather in London
London's autumn, from September to November, sees a decrease in temperature, fluctuating between 5.7°C to 19°C. The hours of daylight start decreasing substantially, limiting to 10.7 hours by the end of November. The rainfall remains moderate during this period, ranging between 26mm to 34mm per month.
Winter weather in London
London's winter months, from December to February, see temperatures drop to their lowest, with ranges between 2.2°C to 7.6°C. The city experiences its shortest daylight durations throughout the winter months, reaching a minimum of 7.9 hours in December. Rainfall slightly increases during this period from 34mm to 37mm and the possibility of snowfall becomes reality, with January experiencing 7mm of snow. This can create a picture-perfect scene for those dreaming of a classic Winter Christmas.
Weather in January
London greets the New Year with an atmosphere filled with cold temperatures and often damp conditions. The scarce daylight makes it one of the darkest months of the year, though there's a slight chance of the city experiencing snowfall. Weather in January »
Weather in February
As London moves further into the year, February marks a slight increase in average temperatures. However, it's still considered a winter month, with a higher possibility of experiencing snowfall than in January. Lesser precipitation signifies a welcomed, albeit slight, move towards warmer weather. Weather in February »
Weather in March
March signals the advent of spring in London, bringing a general uplifting mood due to the milder, more agreeable weather. The snowfall completely recedes, giving way to a largely frost-free environment. Relative to February, both temperatures and daylight hours start to increase, promising the arrival of more pleasant days. Weather in March »
Weather in April
April brings a definitive arrival of spring, characterized by increased temperatures and considerable daylight hours. It's a marked departure from March's lingering aspects of winter. In contrast to the anticipated warmth of May, April holds a balanced climate, not too cold nor too warm. Weather in April »
Weather in May
May in London offers the first taste of summer, with warmer temperatures and blooming city parks. Its longer daylight hours promise sunnier days, presenting a marked difference from the relatively rainier April. The weather continues to brighten into June, making May one of the most popular months for outdoor activities. Weather in May »
Weather in June
June commences summer in London, accompanied by predominantly warm, dry conditions. These conditions are a significant advancement from May's climate. In comparison to what can be expected in July, June is slightly milder yet still comfortably warm. Weather in June »
Weather in July
July is the peak of summer in London, typically registering the highest average temperatures. Compared to June, it's unmistakably hotter and can be increasingly humid at times. While August presents similar weather characteristics, temperatures are likely to start dropping slightly. Weather in July »
Weather in August
August provides London with the tail-end of summer's warmth. The weather shows small variances from July, maintaining high temperatures and hours of sunlight. September's arrival ushers in the early signs of autumn, signified by cooler temperatures. Weather in August »
Weather in September
In September, London gradually starts to wave goodbye to summer. The weather, while remaining reasonably fair, shows noticeable changes from August. With the approaching October, further drops in temperature can be expected. However, the crisp air and fewer tourists make September an agreeable month to explore London. Weather in September »
Weather in October
October in London ushers in the autumn season in earnest, with temperatures dropping steadily. The weather starkly contrasts that of September, introducing a characteristic chilly wind to the city. Heading into November, these autumn conditions persist, with temperatures continuing their downwards trend. Weather in October »
Weather in November
November in London is typically characterized by colder temperatures and an increase in average rainfall. The transition from October is marked with shorter daylight hours, announcing the arrival of winter. Looking ahead to December, colder and shorter days are on the horizon. Weather in November »
Weather in December
December brings the full onset of winter into London. From November, it's noticeably colder with shorter daylight hours. Compared to what's to come in January, December bears similar weather characteristics but with marginally increased temperatures. Weather in December »
[Resources]FAQ
What are the coldest months in London?
London notes the coldest temperatures in January, with a average high of 6.8°C and a low of 2.2°C.
How many days does it rain in London?
Throughout the year, in London, United Kingdom, there are 151.7 rainfall days, and 370mm of precipitation is accumulated.
When does it snow in London?
Months with snowfall in London, United Kingdom, are January through April, November and December.
How much does it snow in London?
In London, United Kingdom, during the entire year, snow falls for 7.7 days and aggregates up to 50mm of snow.
When is the lowest UV index in London?
The months with the lowest UV index in London, United Kingdom, are January, February, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 2.
What is the snowiest month in London?
The month with the most snowfall is February, when snow falls for 2.5 days and typically aggregates up to 16mm of snow.
What is the month with the least sunshine in London?
With an average of 3.6h of sunshine, February has the least sunshine of the year.
When is Daylight Saving Time (DST) in London?
On Sunday, 26. March 2023, at 1:00 am, Daylight Saving Time starts in London, and the time zone changes from GMT to BST. Daylight Saving Time ends on Sunday, 29. October 2023, at 2:00 am, and the time zone reverts from BST to GMT.
What is the driest month in London?
The month with the least rainfall is April, when the rain falls for 13.1 days and typically collects 22mm of precipitation.
When it does not snow in London?
May through October are months without snowfall.
What is the rainiest month in London?
June is the month with the most rainfall in London. Rain falls for 16 days and accumulates 45mm of precipitation.
When are the longest days in London?
June has the longest days of the year in London, United Kingdom, with an average of 16h and 36min of daylight.
What is the month with the highest UV index in London?
June and July, with an average maximum UV index of 5, are months with the highest UV index in London, United Kingdom.
What is the warmest month in London?
July temperatures tend to peak at an average high of 22.3°C and dip to a low of 13.5°C.
What is the least humid month in London?
With an average relative humidity of 72%, August is the least humid month in London, United Kingdom.
What month has the most sunshine in London?
The month with the most sunshine is August, with an average of 7.9h of sunshine.
What is the most humid month in London?
The most humid month in London is December, with an average relative humidity of 88%.
What is the month with the shortest days in London?
With an average of 7h and 54min of daylight, December has the shortest days of the year in London, United Kingdom.
Average temperature
London, United Kingdom
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (22.3°C).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (6.8°C).
The month with the highest average low temperature is August (13.8°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (2.2°C).
Average pressure
London, United Kingdom
- Average pressure in January:
1014.6mbar - Average pressure in February:
1013.9mbar - Average pressure in March:
1015.5mbar - Average pressure in April:
1015.7mbar - Average pressure in May:
1016.8mbar - Average pressure in June:
1016.2mbar
- Average pressure in July:
1015.3mbar - Average pressure in August:
1014.9mbar - Average pressure in September:
1016.9mbar - Average pressure in October:
1015.1mbar - Average pressure in November:
1010.6mbar - Average pressure in December:
1014.5mbar
The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is September (1016.9mbar).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is November (1010.6mbar).
Average wind speed
London, United Kingdom
- Average wind speed in January:
16.5km/h - Average wind speed in February:
17.3km/h - Average wind speed in March:
15.9km/h - Average wind speed in April:
13.3km/h - Average wind speed in May:
13.4km/h - Average wind speed in June:
13km/h
- Average wind speed in July:
12.7km/h - Average wind speed in August:
12.8km/h - Average wind speed in September:
12.6km/h - Average wind speed in October:
14.3km/h - Average wind speed in November:
15.5km/h - Average wind speed in December:
17km/h
The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is February (17.3km/h).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is September (12.6km/h).
Average humidity
London, United Kingdom
The month with the highest relative humidity is December (88%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is August (72%).
Average rainfall
London, United Kingdom
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is June (45mm).
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is April (22mm).
Average rainfall days
London, United Kingdom
- Average rainfall days in January:
11.2 days - Average rainfall days in February:
10.5 days - Average rainfall days in March:
11.5 days - Average rainfall days in April:
13.1 days - Average rainfall days in May:
14.3 days - Average rainfall days in June:
16 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
16.5 days - Average rainfall days in August:
13.5 days - Average rainfall days in September:
9.8 days - Average rainfall days in October:
11.6 days - Average rainfall days in November:
12.6 days - Average rainfall days in December:
11.1 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is July (16.5 days).
The month with the least rainy days is September (9.8 days).
Average snowfall
London, United Kingdom
The month with the highest snowfall is February (16mm).
The months with the least snowfall are May, June, July, August, September and October (0mm).
Average snowfall days
London, United Kingdom
- Average snowfall days in January:
2.2 days - Average snowfall days in February:
2.5 days - Average snowfall days in March:
1.2 days - Average snowfall days in April:
0.3 days - Average snowfall days in May:
0 days - Average snowfall days in June:
0 days
- Average snowfall days in July:
0 days - Average snowfall days in August:
0 days - Average snowfall days in September:
0 days - Average snowfall days in October:
0 days - Average snowfall days in November:
0.3 days - Average snowfall days in December:
1.2 days
The month with the highest number of snowfall days is February (2.5 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are May, June, July, August, September and October (0 days).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
London, United Kingdom
- Average daylight in January:
8h and 2min - Average daylight in February:
10h and 0min - Average daylight in March:
11h and 5min - Average daylight in April:
13h and 5min - Average daylight in May:
15h and 4min - Average daylight in June:
16h and 4min
- Average daylight in July:
16h and 1min - Average daylight in August:
14h and 4min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 4min - Average daylight in October:
10h and 4min - Average daylight in November:
8h and 5min - Average daylight in December:
7h and 5min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 16h and 36min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 7h and 54min).
- Average sunshine in January:
4h and 1min - Average sunshine in February:
3h and 4min - Average sunshine in March:
5h and 2min - Average sunshine in April:
7h and 4min - Average sunshine in May:
7h and 2min - Average sunshine in June:
7h and 2min
- Average sunshine in July:
7h and 5min - Average sunshine in August:
7h and 5min - Average sunshine in September:
7h and 1min - Average sunshine in October:
4h and 3min - Average sunshine in November:
4h and 0min - Average sunshine in December:
4h and 1min
The month with the most sunshine is August (Average sunshine: 7h and 54min).
The month with the least sunshine is February (Average sunshine: 3h and 36min).
Average sunshine days
London, United Kingdom
- Average sunshine days in January:
16.8 days - Average sunshine days in February:
15.1 days - Average sunshine days in March:
16.2 days - Average sunshine days in April:
14.8 days - Average sunshine days in May:
14.1 days - Average sunshine days in June:
12.2 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
12.3 days - Average sunshine days in August:
15.5 days - Average sunshine days in September:
18.1 days - Average sunshine days in October:
16.8 days - Average sunshine days in November:
15.4 days - Average sunshine days in December:
17.5 days
The month with the most sunshine days is September (18.1 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is June (12.2 days).
Average UV index
London, United Kingdom
The months with the highest UV index are June and July (UV index 5).
The months with the lowest UV index are January, February, November and December (UV index 2).
Average cloud cover
London, United Kingdom
The month with the most cloud cover is February (Cloud cover 61).
The month with the least cloud cover is September (Cloud cover 49).
Average visibility
London, United Kingdom
The months with the highest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, October and December (9km).
The months with the lowest visibility are September and November (8km).
London, United Kingdom
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