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Weather in the UK & Great Britain

Table of contents

Weather by season
Weather by month
Weather by region
The best time to visit
Travel tips for every weather
Your packing list for the UK
Weather phenomena
FAQ

The weather isn’t always hot and sunny in the UK – but that’s part of its uniquely British charm. Embrace the unpredictability of the weather in the UK and let it guide your adventure with TourRadar.

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Weather in the UK by season

  • Hiking in the UK

    Spring (March to May)

    Sunshine or showers? You never know what weather you’re going to get during spring in the UK – and sometimes you might even get it all at once.
     

    UK tours in spring
  • Giant's Causeway, Northern Ireland

    Summer (June to August)

    British summers are a delightful blend of warm sun-kissed days and cool breezy nights. With longer daylight hours, it's the perfect time to explore both cities and rural areas.
     

    UK tours in summer
  • Hiking in Scotland

    Fall (September to November)

    The landscapes turn golden in fall, and you should also be able to enjoy mild temperatures which are perfect for countryside walks and city strolls.
     

    UK tours in autumn/fall
  • People sightseeing in London

    Winter (December to February)

    Winter in the UK is fairly mild, and you might even be lucky enough to get some snow. Make sure to visit the magical Christmas markets and enjoy the festive spirit.
     

    UK tours in winter

Monthly overview of the weather in the UK

MonthAvg Temp °CAvg Temp °FRain/Snow
January541High
February643High
March846Moderate
April1050Moderate
May1355Low
June1661Low
July1864Low
August1864Low
September1559Moderate
October1254Moderate
November86High
December643High

Weather in the UK by region

  • London

    London

    London's weather is a blend of moderate rainfall and pleasant temperatures – often hot in summer. Explore iconic sites like the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and the British Museum.
     

    See London tours
  • Edinburgh Castle

    Edinburgh

    The weather in this Scottish gem is colder, but it adds to the city's medieval charm. Don't miss exploring the castle and the stunning views from Arthur's Seat.
     

    See Edinburgh tours
  • Lake District

    Lake District

    Renowned for its stunning lakes and mountains, the weather here is unpredictable – but it’s breathtakingly beautiful, whether it’s rain or shine.
     

    See Lake District tours
  • Couple walking along the beach

    Cornwall

    Cornwall boasts of milder and warmer weather, ideal for beach lovers and surfers who want to enjoy the dramatic coastline.
     

    See Cornwall tours

Best time to visit the UK and Great Britain based on weather

There's no 'bad' time to explore the UK. However, for milder temperatures and longer daylight hours, the period between late spring and early autumn is particularly enjoyable. Plan your adventure with TourRadar today, and let the weather in the UK unfurl a journey of a lifetime.

Read more about the UK
Hiking in Scotland

Weather-related travel tips

General tips for all seasons

UK weather is famously unpredictable. Keep an umbrella and a light jacket handy.

Hydrate and apply sunblock in summer to protect against the occasional heatwave.

Wear layered clothing so you can easily add or remove layers depending on the weather.

For winter travels, pack a warm, waterproof coat and sturdy boots. 

Always check the local weather forecast before planning your adventures for the day.

Packing list for the UK

  • Spring and summer

    • Lightweight clothing
    • Sun hat
    • Polarized sunglasses
    • Raincoat or umbrella
    • Insect repellent
    • Sunblock
    • Swimsuit for beach visits
    • Comfortable walking shoes
    • Light jacket or cardigan
    • Portable water bottle

  • Fall and winter

    • Warm, waterproof coat
    • Sturdy, waterproof boots
    • Thermal clothing
    • Moisturizer and lip balm
    • Scarf, hat, and gloves
    • High-visibility jacket
    • Warm socks
    • Umbrella
    • Flasks for warm drinks
    • Layered clothing

Weather phenomena in the UK

  • Big Ben, London

    The fogs of London

    Nothing quite captures the spirit of London like its iconic foggy weather. It's a sight straight out of a Sherlock Holmes tale and perfect for atmospheric photography.

  • Scottish Highlands

    The Highland midges

    A trip to the Scottish Highlands in summer brings you face-to-face with this weather phenomenon – tiny midges! They’re a nuisance – but they’re part of the authentic Scottish experience, so it’s best to apply insect repellent and hope for the best.

  • Sunrise over a beach

    The gales of Wales

    Wales is largely coastal, which means it can be windy. Experience the powerful and awe-inspiring gales of Wales – it's nature's display of grandeur at its finest.

  • The Cliffs of Dover

    The White Cliffs of Dover

    The sun reflecting off these dazzling white cliffs on a clear day is a sight to behold.

Best UK tours

Top-rated operators for UK tours

What people ask about the UK

  • How unpredictable is the weather in the UK?

    The weather in the UK can change quickly. It's not uncommon to experience multiple seasons in a single day – so it’s best to be prepared for anything, with layers for all eventualities.
  • What's the summer weather like in the UK?

    It depends where you visit. In London, summers are generally warm, with temperatures averaging between 15 to 25°C – but heatwaves can occur. In the north of the country, it can be colder, with average highs of 17°C (or 63 °F) in Inverness.
  • How cold can winters get in the UK?

    Winters can be quite chilly, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, especially in northern regions.
  • Is rain common in the UK?

    Yes, rain is common throughout the year. That’s why it’s always a good idea to carry an umbrella or a raincoat.
  • What's the best time to visit the UK?

    Both spring and autumn offer pleasant weather and beautiful scenery. However, each season has its own charm – so the best time to visit really comes down to your personal preferences.
  • Do I need to pack different clothes for different regions in the UK?

    Generally, the weather across the country is similar. However, it can be colder in the northern regions – and if you’re heading to the mountains, it’s vital that you’re prepared with warm layers and adequate clothing.

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