Interactive Chart · 2026
UK Weather by Month
See average temperature and rainfall for every month in London, Edinburgh, Manchester and Cardiff. Find the best month for your trip.
London — Weather by Month
Average high temperature and monthly rainfall
Which Month Should You Visit?
Best Overall Weather
Warm and pleasant, with long daylight hours and fewer crowds than peak July–August. Prices are also usually lower than mid-summer.
Best for Budget
Lowest hotel prices of the year, and quiet museums and attractions. Expect cold, grey weather — pack warm layers and a waterproof.
Best for Festivals
Edinburgh Fringe in August draws huge crowds; Christmas markets appear across the UK in late November and December.
Full Weather Data by Month
Average high temperature and rainfall — London
| Month | High (°C) | Low (°C) | Rain (mm) | Daylight |
|---|
Want more detail? Read our full UK weather guide for regional patterns, what to pack and planning tips.
Read Full UK Weather Guide →Frequently Asked Questions
What is the warmest month in the UK?
July is typically the warmest month in the UK, with average highs of 22-24°C (72-75°F) in London and 19-20°C (66-68°F) in Edinburgh. August is a close second.
What is the coldest month in the UK?
January and February are typically the coldest months, with average lows of 2-3°C (36-37°F) in London and around 0-1°C (32-34°F) in Edinburgh.
What is the wettest month in the UK?
October through January are typically the wettest months across most of the UK. November often has the highest rainfall totals, though it varies significantly by region.
What is the driest month in the UK?
April and May are often the driest months across most of the UK, with lower rainfall and improving temperatures — which is why late spring is a popular time to visit.
What is the best month to visit the UK?
June and September are often considered the best months — long daylight hours, mild-to-warm temperatures, and fewer crowds than peak July-August. May and early October are also good choices.
Does it rain more in Scotland or England?
Scotland is generally wetter than England, particularly the west coast and Highlands. Glasgow receives around 1,100-1,200mm of rain per year, compared with around 600-700mm in London.
How cold does it get in the UK in winter?
UK winter temperatures typically range from 2-8°C (36-46°F). Scotland and northern England are coldest, often dropping to 0°C or below, with occasional snow. London rarely drops below freezing for long.
Which UK city is warmest?
London is generally the warmest UK city, especially in summer. Its urban heat effect can add 1-2°C to surrounding areas. In winter, the south-west (Cornwall, Devon) tends to be mildest.