Best Time to Visit the United Kingdom
- Last Updated: August 31, 2024
- Habit England
The best time to visit the UK is summertime, specifically from mid-May to mid-September. Some people prefer the winter season, and for them, December is the best time to visit the UK. Take advantage of long summer days, blue skies, and warm weather by visiting the UK in the summer. People enjoy the beach, outdoor events, and much more during this time. Winter is also a good time to visit. You can enjoy snow, Christmas lights, Christmas markets, and warm, delicious food. UK weather is unpredictable, so whenever you visit, whether in summer or winter, don’t forget to take your umbrella and raincoat with you.
Monthly Weather and Travel Tips for the United Kingdom
January
Temperature (High 9°C and Low 3°C)
After Christmas, you can still enjoy the festive vibes with London’s New Year’s parade. It’s a good chance to celebrate the new year with London’s lights. Londoners know how to celebrate the new year in the most exciting way. The whole city is decorated for the celebration. People from all over London gather at the London Eye and Tower Bridge to celebrate the new year. In the cold, cozy weather, you can visit some of the UK’s old museums and art galleries.
February
Temperature (High 8°C and Low 2°C)
Typically, February is the coldest month of the year, with daytime temperatures between 8°C and 2°C, but at night, temperatures can drop below freezing, and early risers may experience frosty mornings. This is the best time to visit the UK if you are hoping for snow. You can go to Scotland or Manchester to enjoy proper snow. There is the Six Nations Rugby Championship to enjoy. Normally, this time of year is a bit quiet for outdoor activities, but you can still enjoy delicious food in this cozy weather all over the UK.
March
Temperature (High 10°C and Low 4°C)
From this time, the temperature will increase a little, and the daylight hours will also lengthen. However, you still need proper warm clothing and an umbrella. Spring flowers are blooming on the ground and on trees this month. Watch parades and concerts in Wales for St. David’s Day, or join in with neighbouring Ireland’s St. Patrick’s Day festivities in Belfast, London, and cities all over the UK.
April
Temperature (High 13°C and Low 6°C)
If you are in the UK or planning to visit, don’t forget to make friends with your umbrella because you’ll need it throughout the year, whether it’s summer or winter. The weather is getting warmer around this time, making it perfect for hiking or walking in the countryside. There’s a week-long literary festival in Shakespeare’s hometown of Stratford, the annual Belfast Film Festival, and music and comedy during Wales’s Laugharne Weekend.
May
Temperature (High 17°C and Low 9°C)
People in the UK love football, and this is the time for all the big football finals, including the FA Cup final held at Wembley Stadium and the Premier League final. People also engage in outdoor activities due to the warm weather and long days. Activities like BBQs with family in the garden are most common. Many people visit the seaside to enjoy the weather. There are lots of shows and events going on across the UK, including three weeks of art performances in Brighton, the Lake District’s Keswick Mountain Festival, and the beautiful Chelsea Flower Show and many more.
June
Temperature (High 21°C and Low 9°C)
June is one of the best months to visit the United Kingdom. With warm weather, people really enjoy outdoor activities such as BBQ parties in the garden with friends and family, hiking in the countryside, or visiting the beach. Summer is the best season for all things music, art, and culture, with a jam-packed festival calendar including Glastonbury, WOMAD, and The Isle of Wight Festival.
July
Temperature (High 25°C and Low 13°C)
This is the hottest month in the UK. Whether you are relaxing in London or heading to the beach, sunscreen is recommended in this hot weather. From mid-July, school holidays begin, making this the busiest month to visit the UK. During the summer, world-class tennis players come to compete in the Wimbledon Championship. Many famous people, such as actors and cricketers, also attend Wimbledon to watch the tennis matches. You can also join various festivals. There are numerous outdoor music festivals held in July and August, as well as large agricultural shows like the Great Yorkshire Show.
August
Temperature (High 21°C and Low 14°C)
This month marks the end of summer in the UK. From mid-August, you might notice the temperature dropping in the late night and early morning, with cool air beginning to set in. The Edinburgh Festival Fringe, a lively series of performances including shows, music, and comedy, is held throughout most of August, making the city extremely busy. London also hosts its own party with the Notting Hill Carnival, while in Liverpool, you can celebrate the city’s greatest musical export during International Beatleweek. The last weekend of August is the final Bank Holiday of the summer.
September
Temperature (High 19°C and Low 12°C)
Starting in September, the weather begins to cool down, and the autumn season begins. Leaves start to fall from the trees. Milder weather makes this a great time to go to the countryside for walking or hiking.
October
Temperature (High 16°C and Low 10°C)
Autumn also falls into the quieter shoulder season. It’s a visually stunning time to visit the UK as the countryside foliage turns orange and red. During this time, the days become shorter, and the nights grow longer. You’ll get to see some of the most breathtaking scenery during autumn. For example, you could travel to the Lake District in September and October to see the mountains covered in bright golden trees.
November
Temperature (High 12°C and Low 7°C)
November is not an ideal month to visit the UK due to short days and cold weather. However, if you visit in November, you can avoid the crowds that usually come during the holiday season. There is a Black Friday sale in the last week of November. Also, Christmas decorations start going up all over the UK, making this time special. This is also the best time for shopping, as many brands offer discounts.
December
Temperature (High 9°C and Low 4°C)
December is a special time to visit the United Kingdom. You’ll find a cold, cozy, Christmas and New Year vibe all over the UK, with Christmas lights everywhere. People are buying gifts for their loved ones. If you’re a shopping lover, head to London’s Oxford Street to find the best brands. During this time, people meet with their friends and family. Restaurants are particularly busy serving their customers. While festive cheer might keep you warm inside, a thick jacket and gloves are a good idea to ward off the winter cold. If you’ve finished all your shopping and dining, head to Winter Wonderland in London or Cardiff for cool activities like ice skating, various rides, and food and drinks.
From Habit England, we wish you a happy UK visit, and if you need any tips or ideas, don’t forget to contact us.