The Weather In London
If you’re visiting London, you’ve probably heard a lot about its rainy reputation. However, that’s not all there is to weather in England’s biggest city. Frequent rain has always been a fixture, but recently sunshine and dry heat have been suddenly occurring, too. In recent years, London summers have reached record temperatures, and autumn has been warm as well. Freezing temperatures have always been rare in London, so don’t expect frigid winters, either.
If talk of London weather makes you think of a city that’s always gray and full of drizzle, you couldn’t be imagining a more incorrect picture. Instead of monotony, London is known for its extremely surprising weather. Between the oceans surrounding the island, and the six air streams that help define its climate, London is subject to a lot of volatile and sudden weather changes.
That can make traveling to Britain risky, since your romantic weekend could end in pouring rain. The best idea is to remain flexible in your plans and be ready for anything. Pack for sun and heat, or damp and chill, because you never know what to expect. However, there are some general seasonal trends you can plan for.
Winter in London makes it a magical place, with sparkling streets. While London is among the warmest places in the country, you should still dress warmly, since the average temperature during this season is around forty-five degrees Fahrenheit, and occasional snow is possible.
Come spring, the city will come alive as temperatures begin to rise and the sun bathes the entire area. Showers occur frequently in March and April, so if you’re traveling in London during this season, bring a waterproof coat. Spring is beautiful, but it’s just about the most unpredictable season - carry an umbrella wherever you go, and except sudden downpours that clear up quickly.
In the summer, London’s open spaces and parks come into their full glory, and they’re full of great outdoor entertainment. While temperatures can get high, they don’t rise enough to rival summers in many places in the US or other countries - the average temperature in July is only seventy-one degrees Fahrenheit. So, in addition to your warm weather gear, bring a light jacket for cool nights and the occasional lower temperature day.
Autumn in London still feels a little like summer, but the parks light up with colorful leaves. Around the end of October, the leaves will begin to fall and a chill will creep into the air. Expect average temperatures around sixty degrees in the early part of the autumn, falling to around fifty degrees by November. Bring warm clothes and a decent coat, but there’s no need for your mittens and parka.
The key to dealing with London weather as a traveler is to try to be prepared for anything. While the weather is mild, it tends to change suddenly and without warning. That means preparing in advance for rain or heat and dressing in layers is a smart choice.
Tags: cold, london weather, rain, weather