London Weather

Londoners enjoy a love hate relationship with the citys weather, and although the stereotypical Londoner spends much of his or her time moaning about the unpredictability of the weather, it does add a certain charm to the city.

Unpredictable weather

The most important thing about the weather here is that its impossible to accurately forecast. While there are clear trends, you should be prepared for the possibility of rain or cool and cold days all year round and, as in 2006, searing heat in the summer.

London has a generally mild and temperate climate, with rain a possibility throughout the year, but generally rain in London is relatively light. The hottest months of the year are July and August, which are popular times to visit, but you should bear in mind that London is not a city equipped for serious heat, and there is not much air conditioning. During the summer of 2006, temperatures as high as 47C were recorded on the Underground.

Cool spring

Perhaps the best time of year to visit is in the spring, with the Royal Parks particularly beautiful and the weather generally cool and pleasant. Winter in London can be bitterly cold, especially in January, but there is nice feel to the city in December as Christmas approaches.

Average Temperature (°C)

30 22 15 8 0

Jan 3.8

Feb 4.0

Mar 5.8

Apr 7.9

May 11.3

Jun 14.4

Jul 16.5

Aug 16.1

Sep 13.8

Oct 10.8

Nov 6.6

Dec 4.7

Rainfall (mm)

80 60 40 20 0

Jan 77.7

Feb 51.1

Mar 60.2

Apr 54.1

May 55.3

Jun 56.6

Jul 44.8

Aug 55.6

Sep 67.7

Oct 73.2

Nov 77.6

Dec 78.9