When you’re thinking about travelling in the UK, one of the initial considerations is when
to visit. How long should you spend in London, and when is the best time to go?
When to visit London
London is busy during every season, with tourists from all over the world flocking to the
city to see all the sights. Having said that, there are times when London is at its most
crowded.
Weather in London
The UK has four seasons. Spring starts in March, and is when the weather starts warming
up before summer starts in June. July and August are the hottest months in Britain.
Although the UK has a reputation for cold, wet weather, don’t be fooled. Summer in
London can be stifling if there’s a heatwave, especially when travelling via the
underground.
Winter is chilly, although the coldest weather tends to occur after the Christmas and New
Year holiday period, during January and early February. Spring and autumn are kinder,
with temperatures generally ranging from cool to warm during April, May, September and
October.
Peak season in London
So the months of July and August see the best weather in London – but at times it can
also get very hot in the city. Add to this the fact that these are peak periods for tourism,
and you may wish to consider whether high summer is the best time to visit.
Sunny months aside, the other time when London can become very crowded is during
December. This is because people head here from all over the UK, Europe and even other
continents to experience the festive Christmas lights, markets, parties and shopping that
typifies London in December.
UK public holidays
Known in Britain as ‘bank holidays’, public holidays are also when London can become
packed with people. Bank holidays in the UK take place at Christmas, New Year and
Easter. There are also two in May and one in August, as follows:
25th December – Christmas Day
26th December – Boxing Day
1st January – New Year’s Day
Good Friday – date varies
Easter Monday – date varies
Early May bank holiday – 1st Monday in May
Spring bank holiday – Last Monday in May
Summer bank holiday – Last Monday in August