England in January: Weather, Destinations and More
January is the peak winter month in England. The weather is cold, and days are shorter, but that does not mean the experience is lacking. Whether you want to walk the less crowded streets of Manchester or enjoy readily available accommodations in London, this off-tourist season is perfect for a tranquil holiday getaway. Whether you want to celebrate New Year's the English way or indulge in the Burns Night supper, a trip to England in January offers experiences that blend culture and tradition with a touch of winter magic.
- Catherine Schofield
- From USA
England Weather In January
January in England is characterized by overcast and sometimes damp conditions with occasional snowfall in the country. However, the overall climate is comparatively more bearable than in many other countries, making it an attractive choice for those seeking refuge from harsh winter conditions. The average temperatures hover around 4°C (39°F) to 8°C (47°F) in the southeastern regions, including London. Northern cities like Newcastle and Middlesbrough are faced with colder average temperatures of 3°C (37°F) to 4°C (39°F).
The southwest enjoys milder winters with minimal temperature fluctuations. The northwest's Lake District sees abundant precipitation, resulting in a snowy landscape ideal for winter sports. Devon and Cornwall in the southwest experience mild winters with rare snowfall. Monthly rainfall averages 23 millimeters.
Read our best time to visit England article for a more detailed month-by-month overview.
Weather in England in January - Rainfall and Temperatures
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg Daily (°C) | 8 | 9 | 11 | 14 | 17 | 20 | 23 | 23 | 19 | 15 | 11 | 9 |
| Avg Nightly (°C) | 4 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 9 | 12 | 15 | 18 | 13 | 10 | 6 | 5 |
| Avg Daily (°F) | 47 | 49 | 52 | 58 | 63 | 68 | 74 | 74 | 67 | 59 | 52 | 49 |
| Avg Nightly (°F) | 40 | 40 | 41 | 43 | 49 | 54 | 59 | 65 | 56 | 50 | 43 | 41 |
| Avg Rainfall (mm) | 23 | 30 | 22 | 22 | 26 | 45 | 36 | 38 | 26 | 29 | 34 | 37 |
| Dec | Jan | Feb | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Avg Daily (°C) | 9 | 8 | 9 |
| Avg Nightly (°C) | 5 | 4 | 4 |
| Avg Daily (°F) | 49 | 47 | 49 |
| Avg Nightly (°F) | 41 | 40 | 40 |
| Avg Rainfall (mm) | 37 | 23 | 30 |
Why visit England in January
Despite the low season, England in January has a lot of exciting draws. Below are some reasons why you should plan a trip to England in January.
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Low-season prices and crowds: January is part of the low tourist season in England, which means you can take advantage of lower prices for flights, accommodations, and attractions. Tourist crowds are also lower, allowing you to have a more relaxed and intimate experience.
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Festive celebrations: Winter celebrations in England are a diverse and historically rich experience. New Year's fireworks light up the country, with London's Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park being a highlight. The country also commemorates Charles I's Martyrdom, marked by a solemn service at Windsor Castle and a chorister march to Trafalgar Square. Additionally, the celebration of Burns Night Supper offers a taste of Scottish culture through traditional food and poetry reading.
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Winter sports: January is an excellent time for winter sports, such as skiing and snowboarding in England. Areas like Allenheads often have ample snow cover, providing ideal conditions for winter sports enthusiasts. Whether you are a seasoned skier or a beginner, England offers various slopes suitable for all levels of expertise. If you prefer indoor skiing, places like Manchester and Castleford have indoor ski slopes where you can enjoy the thrill of skiing and snowboarding.
When to go and what to do
England offers a host of enticing experiences in January. On your London trip, witness the New Year's Day Parade with marching bands and performers. Harry Potter enthusiasts can relish a snowy Hogwarts at the Warner Bros. Studio, where the Great Hall is adorned with Christmas trees, and a Yule Ball brimming with enchantment awaits. Top London attractions like the Tower of London and the London Eye see smaller crowds during this season.
Betty's Tea Room beckons in the charming city of York with its delectable cakes and pastries, making it a perfect haven on chilly January days. York's picturesque surroundings invite day trips to the Lake District, Yorkshire Moors, or the Yorkshire Dales National Park. The city also boasts an array of unique shops and boutiques, ideal for souvenir hunting and perusing antiques and second-hand books.
Somerset hosts the traditional Wassailing of Orchards in January. Wassailing, a cider-producing West of England tradition, sees people gather to toast the health of apple trees and wish for a prosperous harvest. These ceremonies involve communal gatherings in orchards, where participants sing traditional songs and create a joyful noise to awaken the trees and ward off any lingering evil spirits. Somerset also offers a variety of winter activities, from ice skating and invigorating winter walks to enchanting winter wildlife watching.
Need help planning your January trip to England?
January is the ideal time to visit England, as you can savor its rich history and culture without the summer crowds while enjoying festive winter traditions and budget-friendly travel. The cozy atmosphere, lower prices, and unique experiences make it a delightful winter escape.
For further insights and travel inspiration, consult our extensive England travel guide. You can also contact our local travel experts to plan a customized trip to England.
