Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
London can be cold, hot, sunny, wet, icy, foggy, windy, thundery, clear, humid...all within
a few days. So pack for all seasons. When to go depends more on other factors.
•
Winter (November to February):
Outside of Christmas and New Year, this
is the quietest time to visit. That means accommodation is cheapest and the
major attractions don't have monstrous queues. The major downside is not
the cold, but the limited daylight hours.
•
Spring (March to May):
As the days get longer there's an indelible enthu-
siasm in the air, symbolized by excited chatter and leaves blossoming on re-
cently bare trees. Perhaps the most beautiful time to see the city.
•
Summer (June to August):
Peak season and swarming with crowds, in-
cluding far too many school groups on summer trips. The prices can double
and the queues are a serious annoyance. However, London on a warm sum-
mer day is decidedly balmy. The whole city decamps outside and it makes
for a great atmosphere. Furthermore, with the sun not setting until 10pm you
can really fill your days.
•
Autumn (September to October):
Pleasant and without the crowds, this is
probably the best value time to visit, as the days are still long and the costs
have returned to normal levels.
