When to Visit England
Climate guide & best times to travel
Best Time to Visit
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Year-Round Essentials
Spring (Mar-May)
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Autumn (Sep-Nov)
Winter (Dec-Feb)
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Month-by-Month Guide
January
January is typically the coldest month, with short days and that damp chill that seems to settle into your bones despite temperatures rarely dropping far below freezing. You'll encounter grey skies more often than not, though the post-holiday period means fewer crowds at major attractions. It's actually a decent time for museum-hopping and cozy pub visits, just don't expect much daylight - the sun sets around 4pm.
February
February continues the winter pattern with similar temperatures to January, though you might notice the days gradually getting longer. The weather tends to be unpredictable - you could get crisp, sunny days or weeks of persistent drizzle. It's still firmly off-season for tourism, which means good deals on accommodation but also that some coastal attractions may have limited hours.
March
March marks the beginning of spring, though the weather doesn't always cooperate with the calendar. You'll likely experience a mix of chilly, wet days and surprisingly pleasant sunny spells as temperatures slowly climb. Daffodils start appearing in parks and gardens, and the increasing daylight makes sightseeing more enjoyable, though you'll still want layers and waterproofs handy.
April
April brings proper spring weather with noticeably warmer days, though the old saying "April showers" exists for a reason - brief rain showers are common. The countryside becomes genuinely beautiful with blossoms and spring flowers, and outdoor attractions start feeling more appealing. Days are getting longer, giving you more time to explore, though you'll still need a waterproof jacket for those sudden downpours.
May
May is often one of the most pleasant months to visit England, with mild temperatures and gardens in full bloom. The weather tends to be more settled than earlier spring months, though you'll still get the occasional rainy day. It's shoulder season, so attractions are open but not yet overwhelmed with summer crowds, and the longer daylight hours mean you can pack more into each day.
June
June marks the beginning of summer and peak tourist season, with some of the longest days of the year - sunset can be as late as 9:30pm in the south. Temperatures are comfortably warm without being hot, and you'll have a decent chance of dry, pleasant weather, though rain is never completely off the table. Outdoor festivals and events are in full swing, and parks and gardens are at their best.
July
July is typically the warmest month, though "warm" by English standards means temperatures in the low 20s rather than scorching heat. It's peak summer holiday season, so expect crowds at major attractions and higher prices for accommodation. The weather can be lovely for outdoor activities, though you'll still want to carry a light rain jacket - summer thunderstorms do happen.
August
August continues the summer pattern with warm temperatures and long days, though it's often the busiest month for tourism. You might encounter some muggy days when that 70% humidity becomes noticeable, and brief thunderstorms can roll through. Many Brits take their holidays this month, so coastal areas and popular attractions can feel quite crowded, but the weather generally cooperates for outdoor exploration.
September
September is actually a lovely time to visit, with temperatures still mild and crowds thinning out as schools return. The weather tends to be more settled than you might expect, and early autumn colors start appearing in parks and countryside. Days are noticeably shorter than midsummer but still long enough for full sightseeing days, and you'll often find better accommodation deals than peak summer months.
October
October brings proper autumn weather with cooler temperatures and increasingly unpredictable conditions. You'll see beautiful fall foliage in parks and rural areas, but you'll also need to prepare for more frequent rain and wind. Days are getting noticeably shorter, though it's still a decent time for visiting cities and indoor attractions. The weather can vary significantly - you might get crisp, clear days or grey, drizzly weeks.
November
November is firmly in the off-season with short, often grey days and that persistent dampness that defines English autumn. Temperatures drop noticeably, and you'll likely encounter more rainy days than dry ones. That said, it's a good time for experiencing England without the crowds, and cities look atmospheric with autumn colors and early Christmas preparations. Just pack warm, waterproof layers and adjust your expectations about sunshine.
December
December brings the shortest days of the year (sunset around 3:45pm) and winter weather that's cold and damp rather than dramatically snowy. Christmas markets and festive decorations make cities feel magical, though the weather can be dreary. You'll need warm layers for the chill and waterproofs for frequent rain. Crowds pick up around Christmas and New Year, but early December tends to be quieter despite the festive atmosphere.