When is the best time to visit the UK?

Home to ancient sites, dramatic landscapes, historic cities, and vibrant contemporary culture, the countries of the United Kingdom are wonderful destinations to explore and discover throughout the year. However, based on the activities you want to take part in, or the places you want to visit during your trip, certain seasons or times of the year may be better than others.

 

The United Kingdom has a temperate climate, with warm summers and cool but mild winters. Although the region is famous (or rather, infamous) for its rainy weather, some seasons are wetter than others. And although the UK rarely experiences extreme weather conditions, it’s nevertheless possible to experience weather typical of very different seasons on the same day.

 

Here’s our guide to help you figure out the best time to visit England and the rest of the United Kingdom depending on what you would like to see and do.

Thanks to the temperate climate and year-round mild temperatures, the United Kingdom makes for a great destination to visit at any time of the year. But each particular season has its own benefits and drawbacks.

With the long daylight hours and fair weather, summer is peak tourist season for the UK. Along with a surge of international tourists, it's also when locals go on vacation thanks to their longer summer break. It can be a fun time of year to visit due to the fine weather, numerous festivals, and lively upbeat atmosphere. If you're coming to the UK for outdoor activities like hiking or walking, summer is one of the best times to do so. However, it's also when hotels, attractions, and accommodations are most crowded and expensive.

 

The shoulder seasons of spring and fall are generally regarded as the best times of year to visit the UK. The weather is overall pleasant, crowds are fewer, and prices for everything from airfare to hotels are lower. It's also possible to enjoy outdoor activities.

 

Low season lasts from November to April, encompassing the winter months. While you may not get to enjoy the best weather, temperatures are still moderate, prices are low, and you have the benefit of being able to experience festive end-of-year celebrations. While you can still enjoy outdoor activities, you need to pack for colder, wetter weather. However, if you want to focus on indoor activities like exploring museums and galleries, winter can be ideal.

 

With the reduced crowds and rates, spring and fall are great times for family trips to the UK. Solo travelers will find that the UK is a great year-round destination thanks to its overall safety and diverse seasonal offerings.

If you're looking for a bargain, low season (winter), from November to February, is the most affordable time to visit. But be aware that prices do go up around the holidays.

No matter when you want to visit, the United Kingdom has a wealth of delights to discover throughout the year on guided small-group trips and solo expeditions alike.