Weather in London

London has the reputation of being very wet and foggy. This is not true! London has half the rainfall of New York and it does not have the extreme weather of many capital cities. We no longer have bad fog or smog and London is often warmer than other parts of the UK. But visitors to London are often surprised that the weather changes so often. Sometimes it can feel as if you experience winter, spring, summer and autumn all on one day! Maybe this is why British people talk about the weather so much!

Weather in London today.

London's seasons

• Autumn (September 21 - December 20)

Autumn can be wet and cold but it is usually one of the most beautiful times to visit London. There are many sunny days and the parks will be full of trees turning red and gold. On November 5th we celebrate Guy Fawke's night with huge firework displays, and by the end of November the shops are full of Christmas displays.

• Winter (December 21 - March 20)

At the end of the year, the Christmas lights help to keep away the dark and this is also a good time to explore London's many museums and art galleries, or visit the shops, or famous pubs. London's coldest month is usually January, but snow and ice is not usual.

• Spring (March 21 - June 20)

This is often the most changeable time of year with brilliant sunshine one minute and rain the next. But it's also a lovely time to be in London with some very warm days and all the spring plants beginning to flower. London is also much quieter during these months than later in the year.

• Summer (June 21 - September 20)

Summer in London is usually warm, without being exhaustingly hot. You'll need an umbrella, though, as there are often short rain showers. This is a great time to take a boat on the Thames or visit Greenwich or to go to an open air concert.