The Thames, world-class museums and one of the great global cities
London is one of the world's great cities — a place of extraordinary museums (nearly all free), layered history from Roman walls to modern skyscrapers, and a cultural diversity that makes it one of the most interesting places to eat, see live music and experience the breadth of contemporary art. The Thames runs through its heart, connecting riverside landmarks from the Tower of London to Greenwich. While not a beach destination, the Thames Estuary beaches at Whitstable, Margate and Broadstairs — accessible by train — offer genuine seaside character within easy reach. London's parks, from Hyde Park to Richmond, are exceptional urban green spaces.
When to go: May to September is the warmest period. June and July are generally the sunniest months.
The best months to visit London are July, August. Peak season is July with the best combination of warm temperatures and low rainfall.
| Month | Air | Sea | Rain | UV | Wind |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 8°C | 9°C | 55mm | 1 | 24 |
| Feb | 8°C | 8°C | 41mm | 2 | 22 |
| Mar | 11°C | 9°C | 42mm | 3 | 21 |
| Apr | 13°C | 10°C | 46mm | 5 | 19 |
| May | 17°C | 12°C | 49mm | 6 | 18 |
| Jun | 20°C | 15°C | 52mm | 7 | 17 |
| Jul | 22°C | 17°C | 44mm | 7 | 16 |
| Aug | 22°C | 17°C | 50mm | 6 | 16 |
| Sep | 19°C | 16°C | 50mm | 5 | 17 |
| Oct | 14°C | 14°C | 68mm | 3 | 18 |
| Nov | 10°C | 11°C | 59mm | 2 | 21 |
| Dec | 8°C | 9°C | 55mm | 1 | 22 |
The best time to visit London is July, August. Peak season is July when temperatures reach 22°C with very little rain. May to September is the warmest period. June and July are generally the sunniest months.
Sea temperatures in London range from 8°C in February to 17°C in July. The sea is cool at its warmest.
Winter temperatures in London average 8°C with sea temperatures of 8°C. Conditions are milder in winter.
The driest month is February with 41mm. The wettest month sees 68mm. London receives 611mm annually.
Cold and cool seas. Very little rain (55mm). UV 1.
Cold and cool seas. Very little rain (41mm). UV 2.
Cold and cool seas. Very little rain (42mm). UV 3.
Cold and cool seas. Very little rain (46mm). UV 5.
Cool and cool seas. Very little rain (49mm). UV 6.
Mild and cool seas. Very little rain (52mm). UV 7.
Mild and cool seas. Very little rain (44mm). UV 7.
Mild and cool seas. Very little rain (50mm). UV 6.
Cool and cool seas. Very little rain (50mm). UV 5.
Cold and cool seas. Some rain (68mm). UV 3.
Cold and cool seas. Very little rain (59mm). UV 2.
Cold and cool seas. Very little rain (55mm). UV 1.
Compare destinations, check live sea temperatures and find flights on the interactive globe.
Open WhereIsWarm →