Best Time to Visit England

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The ideal time to take a trip to England varies depending on the specific regions you intend to explore, given the country's diverse climates and weather patterns. But generally, spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are widely regarded as the most advantageous periods to tour England due to their favorable weather conditions. Whether it's a summer city getaway in London, a scenic spring hike in the Lake District, a coastal excursion to Cornwall, or an autumn day trip to a historic city like Bath, England offers enticing options for travel year-round.

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Quick Facts

High Season June to August
Low Season November to February
All Seasons March to May (spring), June to August (summer), September to November (autumn), and December to February (winter).

Seasonal Overview

England goes through the traditional weather patterns, i.e. Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.

Spring in England: March to May

The Big Ben tower highlighted by the spring blossoms in England.
England in spring blooms with vibrant flowers, lush green landscapes, and pleasant weather, creating a picturesque and inviting atmosphere.

Spring in England entails warmer and drier weather, and the countryside is beautiful with vibrant blossoms and new life. However, it's still not the time for flip-flops, and a good pair of shoes will always come in handy – whether in London or near the coast. While you can experience the sights and sounds of spring throughout England, it's the best time to visit Cornwall. The group of 13 gardens known as the Great Gardens of Cornwall burst forth with magnolia, rhododendron, and camellia blooms during this period.

Avg. Temperature 9 to 15°C / 49 to 60 ℉ (in London)
Rainfall 60 mm
Season Spring

Highlights:

  • The weather conditions are perfect for punting in Cambridge and the river is less congested.
  • Hotels and spa tours in Bath offer better rates, and the top sites like the Roman Baths and Abbey witness fewer crowds.
  • Check out events like the Six Nations Championship, the annual international men's rugby competition, and the Words by the Water Festival, an event honoring the Lake District's long association with literature.

Tips:

  • Enjoy a pint of beer or traditional English pub food in a charming outdoor setting.
  • Spring is when England's gardens burst into bloom. Don't miss famous gardens like Kew Gardens in London, the Eden Project in Cornwall, and the Keukenhof Gardens in Lisse.
  • English weather in spring can be unpredictable, so pack layers to accommodate temperature fluctuations. Bring a waterproof jacket or umbrella for occasional rain.

In-depth month-wise guides:
England in March
England in April
England in May

Summer in England: June to August 

A lone man walking on low tide at Stone Bay, Kent in England in summer.
Experience thrilling surfing in England's coastal waters, with waves that challenge and scenic beaches that captivate.

June to August is considered the high tourist season in England. The longer daylight hours of summer provide ample time for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Coastal regions like Cornwall offer beautiful beaches with warmer climates perfect for relaxation. Summer in England is also a season of festivals, including music, food, and cultural events.

Avg. Temperature 9 to 18° C / 48 to 64℉ (in London)
Rainfall 42 mm
Season Summer

Highlights:

  • England hosts a multitude of summer festivals, including music festivals like Glastonbury, the Reading and Leeds Festivals, and various other food and traditional fairs.
  • Head to the many historic lidos, outdoor pools, and ponds of London for a summertime swim.
  • The country's gardens are in full bloom during the summer months, with renowned locations like the Chelsea Flower Show and the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew showcasing stunning floral displays.
  • Pack a picnic and relax in one of England's many parks and green spaces. Popular choices include Hyde Park in London and the Royal Pavilion Gardens in Brighton.

Tips:

  • England has an extensive and efficient public transportation system. Consider using trains, buses, and trams to explore cities and regions without the hassle of finding a parking space during the peak season.
  • Savor traditional English summer dishes like strawberries and cream, fish and chips, and Pimm's cocktails at local pubs and restaurants.
  • England is known for unpredictable weather, so be sure to have an umbrella, a light jacket, and a raincoat along with your summer outfits.

In-depth month-wise guides:
England in June
England in July
England in August

Fall in England: September to November

English terraced houses on Muswell Hill, London in England in Summer.
England in summer boasts sunny days, lush gardens, outdoor festivals, and warm hospitality, making it the best season to visit.

From September to November, England experiences its shoulder season with a lot of rain and generally humid weather. The temperatures can fall significantly as the winter month approaches and the cities like Leeds and Bradford experience early winter. The southern parts of England however remain relatively warmer allowing for more extensive outer activities.

Avg. Temperature 9 to 17°C /49 to 63℉ (in London)
Rainfall 81 mm
Season Fall

Highlights:

  • Visit Winchester which attracts Keats enthusiasts with a two-mile walk inspired by "Ode to Autumn.”
  • England in fall hosts the BFI London Film Festival which lights up the scene with film screenings and appearances by global celebrities.
  • October also provides opportunities to witness the red deer rut at Exmoor and Suffolk's coastal heaths.
  • Early autumn trips to the Yorkshire coast often yield sightings of minke and humpback whales, adding a wildlife element to your journey.
  • Join special Halloween ghost tours in cities like York and Kent for a spine-tingling adventure.
  • Visit Bath for the annual Jane Austen festival in September.

Tips:

  • Explore boutique hotels and charming bed-and-breakfasts, which can offer unique and cozy experiences, especially in smaller towns and villages.
  • Keep an eye out for special shoulder season discounts and packages offered by hotels and accommodations to save on your stay.
  • If you plan to travel extensively by train, consider purchasing a rail pass, such as the BritRail Pass, for convenience and savings.
  • Look into heritage passes like the National Trust or English Heritage passes, which grant access to historic sites and gardens at reduced rates.

In-depth month-wise guides:
England in September
England in October
England in November

Winter in England: December to February

Snow covered houses at Gloucestershire, England in winter.
England in winter transforms into a cozy wonderland with charming Christmas markets, historic sites, and warm, inviting pubs.

December to February is the coldest period in England. It is unusual to see snow during winter, but in recent years, the easterly winds from the near continent known as the “Beast from the East” have led to snowy conditions. There are, however, plenty of things to do during winter and fewer queues at popular attractions.

Avg. Temperature 6 to 7°C /43 to 45℉ (in London)
Rainfall 78 mm
Season Winter

Highlights:

  • Enjoy the festive spirit with a visit to Winter Wonderland in London's Hyde Park, featuring ice skating, attractions, and holiday markets.
  • Book tickets for a traditional pantomime performance, a beloved British theatrical tradition during the holiday season.
  • Explore the charming Christmas markets in London, Bath, Birmingham, York, and Manchester for a delightful family outing.
  • Take advantage of discounted winter hotel prices and explore Dartmoor National Park, known for its atmospheric fog and unique winter beauty.

Tips:

  • Look for cozy accommodations with fireplaces, such as countryside cottages or boutique hotels, to enjoy the warmth and charm of an English winter.
  • Be mindful that winter days in England are shorter, so plan your activities accordingly to make the most of daylight.
  • Stay updated on local weather forecasts and road conditions, especially if you plan to travel in rural or hilly areas.
  • Plan for indoor activities, such as museum visits or theater shows, in case the weather doesn't cooperate.

In-depth month-wise guides
England in December
England in January
England in February

The best time to visit England depends on your preferences and interests. Each season offers a distinct experience. Whether you're drawn by the lush gardens of spring, the beachside bliss of summer, the rustic charm of autumn, or the sparkling holiday markets of winter, England welcomes travelers year-round with its unique, ever-evolving beauty and attractions. Bookmundi recommends spending at least a week in Nepal. But if you want to come up with your itinerary, contact our travel experts and book a customized trip to England.

Published by Emily Brown, updated on February 6, 2024

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