Best time to visit London

London in the spring (March to May)

Spring is one of the loveliest times to visit London, with blooming park gardens and mild temperatures averaging 11-15°C. Rainfall is moderate at around 50-60%, so do pack an umbrella just in case. You can look forward to the Chelsea Flower Show, blossoming park walks and quieter sightseeing spots, before the peak summer crowds descend on the capital.

Top London events in spring

St. Patrick’s Day Festival (March)

Celebrate the rich Irish culture, with a vibrant parade, traditional music, and dance in Trafalgar Square.

The Boat Race (March/April)

Be a spectator along the River Thames, as you watch this historic televised rowing competition unfold between Oxford and Cambridge University.

Easter Celebrations in Trafalgar Square (April)

Celebrate Easter time, at this family-friendly festival with live performances, seasonal activities, and food stalls.

London Marathon (April)

Cheer from the sidelines or participate in this world famous race, which leads past London's most iconic landmarks.

Chelsea Flower Show (May)

Visit this prestigious gardening event, showcasing inspirational floral displays and innovative garden designs.

London in the summer (June to August)

London in the summer is the warmest and busiest time to visit, with temperatures ranging from 18-23°C. While rainfall dips to around 40-50%, showers are still possible. Summer is ideal for outdoor city activities, like festivals in Hyde Park, open-air cinemas, and rooftop bars with views of the city skyline. Be prepared for the busy crowds at major attractions and get ready to embrace the sunshine!

Exciting London events in summer

Trooping the Colour (June)

Head to Horse Guards Parade for a spectacle in pomp and pageantry, as the grand military parade commences to celebrate the official birthday of the British monarch - featuring processions, horse guards, and a balcony appearance by the Royal Family.

Wimbledon Championships (June/July)

Watch an exciting game in this prestigious tennis tournament at the All England Club, where top international players compete on the world-famous grass courts. A spectator-friendly tub of fresh strawberries and cream is compulsory!

Pride in London (June/July)

Love is love! Join in this colorful LGBTQ+ celebration with a parade, performances, and events throughout central London, marking a powerful expression of diversity.

BBC Proms (July - September)

Be royally entertained during this series of classical live music concerts at the world-famous Royal Albert Hall, culminating in the iconic 'Last Night of the Proms'.

Notting Hill Carnival (August)

Join in the fun of Europe’s largest street festival, celebrating Caribbean culture with vibrant parades, music, dancing, and of course, delicious Caribbean street food.

London in the autumn (September to November)

Time to layer up! Cooler but still enduringly beautiful, with temperatures between 11-15°C, London in the autumn is perfect for enjoying a cozy and ambient city break. Rainfall rises to around 60%, but autumn colors in parks like Kew Gardens make it worthwhile. Experience seasonal events like the London Film Festival and relish carefree city walks and world-class attractions with fewer tourists.

Amazing London events in autumn

London Fashion Week (September)

"Strike a pose!" Fashionistas everywhere can enjoy this prestigious annual event, showcasing cutting-edge collections from top designers. Attracting fashion industry elites and global media attention, it's the most sought-after ticket in town.

BBC Good Food Festival (September)

Savor this celebration of food and drink at Hampton Court Palace, with delectable tastings, live cookery demonstrations, and fun culinary workshops.

Black History Month (October)

Immerse yourself in this month-long celebration of African and Caribbean heritage, with events across the city including exhibitions, live performances, and fascinating lectures.

The Lord Mayor’s Show (November)

Watch this historic procession through the streets of London, celebrating the inauguration of the city’s new Lord Mayor, with floats, bands, and fireworks to mark this special civic occasion.

London Film Festival (October)

Film fans will love taking part in this prestigious celebration of international cinema, by attending screenings of the latest films, filmmaker Q&As, and industry panels.

London in the winter (December to February)

Let the excitement of the season commence! Winter brings temperatures down to 5-8°C, making for occasional frosty days in London. Although rainfall stays steady at around 60%, the festive atmosphere more than makes up for it! Christmas markets, holiday lights and decorations along Oxford Street, and cozy authentic pubs are top visitor highlights. You can even experience ice skating at iconic landmark spots like Somerset House.

Fun wintertime events in London

Winter Wonderland (November - January)

Couples and families love this magical Christmas festival in Hyde Park, featuring an ice rink, a Christmas market, festive circus, and thrilling fairground rides, it's the perfect way to forget the cold!

Christmas Markets (November - December)

Festive markets open across London, including Southbank Centre Winter Market and Greenwich Christmas Market, offering gifts, food, and seasonal treats for you and loved ones.

Ice Skating (November - January)

Enjoy a magical outdoor ice skating experience at Somerset House, with its stunning backdrop, or at the picturesque Kensington Gardens Ice Rink, which is perfectly placed for skating under the stars.

Santa Run London (December)

Trainers at the ready! This fun annual charity event sees participants dress up as Santa Claus and run through the streets of London to raise funds for various charitable causes.

New Year’s Eve Fireworks (December 31st)

Those looking to see the New Year in with gusto can join the crowds and take in the spectacular fireworks display over the Thames. With breathtaking views from the London Eye and surrounding areas, it makes for a memorable London holiday moment.

Chinese New Year (February)

London hosts one of the largest Chinese New Year celebrations outside of Asia. The annual festivities take place in Chinatown and across the West End, with a vibrant parade, traditional lion dances, street performances, and fireworks. The event usually falls in February, depending on the lunar calendar so do check before travelling.

London Fashion Week (February)

Another major event in the fashion world, London Fashion Week is a must-see for anyone interested in the latest trends. This biannual event showcases top designers, emerging talent, and cutting-edge collections, with shows and presentations held across the city.

With so much to look forward to in each season, knowing the best time to visit London really depends on your own interests and expectations for a fun city break. Whichever season appeals most, staying in one of our London vacation rentals with optional Concierge promises to make your cosmopolitan break a seamless and unforgettable experience.