Best time to Visit England

Are you thinking about a trip to England and wondering when the is the best time to go?

Well we are here to help you decide. Let’s first look at why travelling to England is such a good idea.

Why travelling to England is a great idea!

England is a great place to visit for so many reasons! First off, the iconic landmarks like Big Ben and the Tower of London screaming history at you. Then there's the beauty and charm of the countryside with its rolling hills, mountains and quaint villages – definitely like something out of a storybook.

The English also know something about how to make a proper pint, and the pub culture is 1^st class, you can't beat a Sunday roast followed by a cosy pint in a traditional English pub.

Plus, the diversity is off the charts. London alone is a melting pot of cultures, and you can feast on cuisines from around the world without leaving the city.

And be prepared to be surprised, the Brits might have a reputation for being a bit reserved, but once you crack that shell, they're some of the friendliest folks you'll ever meet. So, pack your bags, mate, and get ready for a jolly good time in England!

Let’s first look at the climate in England

England's climate is a bit of a mixed bag and will definitely keep you on your toes from one day to the next, never quite knowing what to expect. Make sure you come prepared for every possible combination of conditions.

In the summer months which are June to August, temperatures are around 15 to 25 degrees Celsius (59 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit) so while it's not very hot there are plenty of opportunities for get sunny days.

In the Winter, December to February, temperatures drop to around 2 to 8 degrees Celsius (36 to 46 degrees Fahrenheit) so whilst it’s not extremely cold it can be damp which makes it feel a lot worse and in many parts of England, especially in the north of the country, areas like the Lake District, Yorkshire Dales and the Penines you are very likely to get snow.

As for rainfall, well, England has a bit of a reputation for it and it rains a lot at any time of the year though more likely during the autumn and winter months. You can expect around 60-80mm (2.4-3.1 inches) of rain per month. So, having an umbrella or a raincoat is always a good idea.

Let’s now look at the seasons in England

Peak Season – June to August

So, in England, the peak season usually hits during the summer months, from June to August. That's when the weather is generally at its best – not too cold, not too hot, just right with temperatures, ranging on average from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius (59 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit). The longer days mean more time to explore all the beautiful landscapes, historical sites and charming cities.

Tourist hotspots like London, Bath, and Oxford can get pretty busy during this time, but it's for a good reason as these are the times when you can experience outdoor events and festivals, the atmosphere is lively and energetic. Just pack a brolly (umbrella) because, well, it's England – a sudden shower is always a possibility, even in summer. Overall, if you're into sunny days, lively streets, and a buzzing cultural scene, summer is the way to go in England!

The peak season in England is during the summer months, from June to August. This is when you are more likely to get more sunshine with higher temperatures, ranging on average from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius (59 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit).

Things to do during the peak season in England

• Explore Historic Sites and dive into England's rich history by visiting iconic landmarks like the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and Stonehenge.
• Attend Festivals as the summer season is the prime time. From music fests to food events, there's always something happening. Check out Glastonbury or the Notting Hill Carnival for an unforgettable experience.
• Make the most of the better weather of the peak season by getting involved in outdoor activities. Hiking in the Lake District, cycling in the Cotswolds or a leisurely stroll in one of London's parks.
• Hit the Beach! and yes, England has some lovely beaches! Head to Cornwall, Brighton or Northumberland for some sun, sea and sand.
• The pub culture is an experience not to bee missed. Have a pint in a quaint local pub, and perhaps indulge in some classic fish and chips.
• Explore local markets like Borough Market in London or the Manchester Christmas Market for unique finds and delicious local treats.
• If you're a sports fan, watch a football match, experience the Wimbledon tennis championship or spend a leisurely afternoon at the cricket.
• England has some stunning gardens and castles so check out Kew Gardens or wander through the enchanting gardens of Sissinghurst Castle.
• London's West End offers world-class theatre productions so grab tickets for a memorable night of drama or musical entertainment.
• Indulge in a quintessentially English tradition – afternoon tea. Enjoy a selection of teas, sandwiches and pastries in a charming tea room in a lovely old village anywhere in the country.

Low season in England – December to February

In England, the low season typically falls during the winter months, from late November to early March. There are fewer tourists that visit during these months, the weather is colder, it rains more and the days are short and dark and while it might not be the best time for outdoor activities, the low season has a unique charm with a warm atmosphere as the season approaches the Christmas period with lots festive events and Christmas markets, decorations, and a quieter atmosphere.

Be aware that many attractions and accommodations in some of the less popular places will have reduced hours or be closed altogether, so make sure to plan ahead just in case. Travelling during the low season will be a quieter experience and if you don't mind bundling up a bit, can be a great time to explore England's cultural and historical treasures.

Things to do in England during the low season

During the low season in England there are still plenty of interesting activities to explore.

• Take advantage of fewer crowds to visit the many museums and art galleries across the country. Places like the British Museum, the National Gallery, and the Tate Modern in London or the castle museum in York offer a rich cultural experience.
• See the beauty of the English countryside without the summer crowds. Places like the Lake District, the Cotswolds, or the Yorkshire Dales are breathtaking during the low season.
• Learn about England's history by visiting historical sites. Explore the many castles, ancient ruins and landmarks like Stonehenge or the Tower of London with fewer tourists around.
• Get into the British tradition of pubs and pretty tea rooms, like Betty’s in Harrogate, the low season is a great time to try local food and get warm with a cup of tea or a pint of beer in from of a roaring fire.
• London's West End and many other English cities have world-class theatre productions so make the most of the low season to grab a ticket at a lower price and get the chance to see a play or a musical without the usual high-season ticket demand.
• Check out local events and festivals that might be happening during the low season. You may find something unique and special that showcase the local culture, Morris dancing or medieval battle re-enactments!!
• The low season covers the Christmas period in England which is a wonderful time to visit, you can wander around festive markets, ice skating rinks, and many other Christmas themed events that bring the magic of this season to life.
• While it might not be the weather for lying on the beach, the coastal areas have lots of charm during the low season. Enjoy a bracing walk along the shore and explore seaside towns without the hordes of summer visitors.
• England has amazing and diverse wildlife, the low season is an excellent time for birdwatching or visiting nature reserves in places like the Norfolk Broads or the Isle of Wight.
• Try traditional English food and one good way is to look for farmers' markets and local restaurants and cafes to try out regional specialties.

Remember, the low season offers a different, more intimate perspective on England, allowing you to appreciate its beauty and culture in a quieter setting.

Shoulder Season – April to June and September to October

The shoulder season is in the spring (April to June) and the autumn (September to October). These are the months of the year in England when the weather is generally mild and in the usually busy touristy areas there are not too many visitors.

Spring has lots of colour, lots of new animal life and mild temperatures, whilst Autumn paints the landscapes with warm hues and is the perfect time to explore without the hustle and bustle of the peak seasons. It’s definitely worth considering planning your trip to England around these months if you can.

Things to do in England during the Shoulder seasons

• Wander through Kew Gardens in London and see the bursts of colours from the beautiful flowers - truly enchanting.
• Take coastal walks along the Jurassic Coast or the South West Coast Path. During these months the air is crisp air and the scenery on these days is stunning.
• Explore England's rich history by visiting historic sites. From Stonehenge to the Tower of London, York Cathedral to Durham Cathedral and many more.
• In autumn, the beauty of the changing leaves is a joy to behold, in particular the Lake District or the New Forest, when the landscapes become a wonderful tapestry of warm and earthy hues.
• Experience an English Pub and enjoy the cosy atmosphere. Autumn and Spring are the perfect times to have a hearty traditional meal and spend time with the locals.
• Follow in the footsteps of literary greats like Jane Austen or William Wordsworth. Visit the Brontë Parsonage Museum in Haworth or the Jane Austen Centre in Bath for a literary journey to the past.
• Local festivals often take place during the shoulder seasons, from food festivals to cultural events, there's always something to appeal to everyone.
• Take a leisurely boat trip on the Thames or explore the picturesque Norfolk Broads. There are hundreds of miles of waterways in England and a journey on them will give you a different perspective of England and its countryside.
• The shoulder seasons are a good time to visit museums and galleries, especially when it rains, try the Royal Armouries Museum in Leeds, Maritime Museum and the World Museum in Liverpool and the National Football Museum in Manchester to name but a few.
• If you fancy a break from busy towns and cities then opt for a countryside retreat in places like the Cotswolds and Derbyshire. The charming, chocolate box villages amongst the rolling hills are beautiful during this season

The best month to visit England

This will largely depend on what you are looking for when you visit England. If you prefer the milder temperatures and colourful landscapes then spring (April to June) is a great time to go. Summer (June to August) has longer days and is a lot busier to travel to England as many local people take their holidays during the English summer but especially during the months of June and July the weather is at its warmest and generally driest though it can rain in any month.

Visiting in Autumn (September to November) is a more relaxed time to visit, its not too cold and the scenery with the changing colours of the leaves makes the country look beautiful. However, if you don't mind a bit of cold then winter (December to February) with its short days, long and dark evenings, especially around Christmas, can be a magical time to visit.

 So, pick your preference, and England will surely have something amazing in store for you!

What months are good weather in England

So, when it comes to decent weather in England, the sweet spot is typically from late spring to early autumn. That's May through to September, roughly. You'll get milder temperatures, longer days, and a better chance to enjoy your time without being soaked by the infamous British rain. Just keep in mind, weather here can be a bit unpredictable, so packing a brolly is always a good shout.

What are the cheapest months to visit England?

If you're looking to save some money on your trip to England then it might be worth visiting during the winter months of January and February when fewer people visit and many hotels and bed and breakfasts are offering good deals on their accommodation, flights also tend to be a bit more budget-friendly during this time. Just keep in mind that it can get a bit chilly and the days are short so pack accordingly. It does however mean you can explore the country with fewer crowds which is always worth it!

What is the off season for travel to England?

This will typically fall during the winter months, from late November to early March. During these months there will definitely be fewer tourists so lots of attractions will be less crowded, and you should be able to find better deals on accommodations. Be prepared though for colder temperatures and shorter days and though some attractions may have reduced hours or be closed for the off season lots of the more iconic sites, cities, and cultural events are still available during the off-season. So, if you don't mind bundling up a bit, winter can be a great time to explore the beauty of England with a more relaxed atmosphere.

Conclusion

From traditional fish and chips to multicultural cuisine, the rolling hills of the Cotswolds, the serene Lake District and its stunning coastline, England offers something for everyone whatever the time of year you choose to visit.

So pack your woollies and a brolly and head over soon.

Happy Travels!!