As with visiting any of the world’s most exciting, cosmopolitan, and travel-friendly cities, a trip to London is always a good idea. But the best time to visit London can depend on what you’re looking to get out of your trip. Some stretches of time draw more crowds than others due to school holidays and exciting cultural events happening in the capital, while other periods are quieter offering more room availability at hotels and even lower airfare prices.
To get the insider intel on the best time to visit London, we spoke to a handful of travel experts who count London among their areas of expertise: Camilla Davidson of Red Savannah, Andy Fidler of True Travel, and Angela Tupper of NoteWorthy. “London is truly a year-round destination,” says Davidson. “Whilst the summer months might be the obvious choice—with special events such as Royal Ascot, the Chelsea Flower Show, and Wimbledon filling up diaries—there is always something happening in the city.” Read on for recommendations from our experts about when to visit London, how long to stay, what to do and see, and more.
A version of this article originally appeared on Condé Nast Traveller UK.
When is the best time to visit London?
When you choose to come to London really depends on what you’re looking for during your trip. If you’re hoping for good weather, a visit during the summer (June, July, or August) means you’re more likely to see sunny and warm days. That said, remember that this is Britain: Rain or cooler days are possible even during months that might be more traditionally sunny elsewhere. In this peak season, however, events like Wimbledon and the Royal Ascot fill up the city, says Fidler of True Travel; additionally, schools break for the summer in July, which means local families head into the capital as well.
During this peak travel season season, Davidson of Red Savannah offers the reminder that hotel rates are usually elevated, public transportation can be packed, the most popular museums are full, and the best guides are already booked: “None of this is to say you shouldn’t visit during the summer,” she says, “but allow plenty of time to plan with your travel advisor or tour operator so that your itinerary is built around your preferences and interests, rather than just what’s available at the last minute.”
If you want to see the city at its most sparkly and magical, the best time to visit London is during the festive period, between late November and the end of December. The autumnal months of September and October bring with them gorgeous leaves, Sunday roasts, and cozy pubs.
Spring, however, is the season for nature lovers as blossoms and wisteria begin to flower across the city. Fidler says, “My favorite time of year in London is spring—when the trees of the royal parks are blossoming and the weather has started to warm up, but the crowds are smaller and room rates at hotels are more favorable.”
When is the cheapest time to visit London?
Although London remains busy with tourists all year, January and February are historically the quietest months in the capital and, therefore, can offer the best opportunities to save money and to bag deals. Avoid the February half term (a period of school holidays), the exact dates of which change annually. Tupper of NoteWorthy recommends January, when many of the Christmas decorations, lights, and shows are still on display: “You can take advantage of the seasonal atmosphere, but often at a better value.” Just don’t forget to pack a waterproof jacket and some thermals, says Fidler.
