When to go to London: climate, best time and month-by-month tips

Chaotic and multi-ethnic, modern but with a retro soul, London is one of those cities that never gets boring and has the ability to reveal new aspects of itself each time. Thanks to the incredible amount and variety of attractions to see and activities to do, it is suitable for tourists of all ages, perfect for a cultural vacation thanks to the vast museum offerings, but also ideal for evening and nightlife lovers.
Visiting London is always a good idea, no matter what season of the year you are in. However, a few small tips should be kept in mind to avoid being caught unprepared by the (mischievous) London weather.
WATCH THE INFOGRAPHIC: When to go to London.

Climate, Average Temperatures and Precipitation

• Best time of year: London can be enjoyed all year round, but the best months are from May to early September, when temperatures are a bit warmer and rainfall is scarcer. During the holidays, especially at Christmas, it is wonderful

• Period to avoid: none in particular, but from November and February it is colder and rains more often. At Christmas, however, it is beautiful.

In England, the weather is temperate and cool most of the year. Winter is cold and cloudy, and currents from Russia can often blow in, further lowering perceived temperatures. Even in summer, however, the weather remains variable throughout the country, and especially in the southwest area where the capital is located, so there can be constant sun/rain/sunshine weather swings.

In general, however, annual temperatures hardly ever drop below freezing ranging from 8° (max) in the coldest season to 23° in the summer period, with high humidity peaks.

When is it worthwhile to go to London: the cheapest time of year

Being a very popular destination, it is quite easy to find cheap flights and solutions at any time of the year.

In contrast, accommodations are not exactly cheap. Even hostels, which are generally the least expensive facilities, start at €25.00 per night. For food, on the other hand, one must calculate an average expense of €15.00 per person per meal. As for entrance fees: many attractions are free, but those that are charged cost no less than €10.00 per person. Also not to be underestimated is the expense of transportation, which is more expensive than in Italy (for a weekend you will spend at least £50.00 on transfers to/from airports and subway rides).

London has an incredible range of accommodations available for all types of travelers, but if you're looking for luxury and convenience, the Hilton London Paddington Hotel is an excellent option. Located in the heart of London, this hotel is just a stone's throw away from the Paddington station, which provides easy access to all the city's attractions. The hotel's elegant and spacious rooms offer all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay, including high-speed internet, a fitness center, and on-site restaurants. Whether you're in London for business or leisure, the Hilton London Paddington Hotel is the perfect base for your trip. Book your stay now and experience the ultimate in luxury and convenience.

London in Spring

With the arrival of spring, London is seeing the first real sunny days in months, and the city is being taken by storm by tourists interested in the various activities they can do outdoors. In fact, the Royal Parks are starting to get crowded, as are the scenic buses and scenic cruises on the Thames, which have always been popular means of discovering the city from another point of view.

We must not forget, however, that we are in one of the busiest capital cities in the world: for this reason, the calendar is full of interesting events and proposals, among which I would like to point out the Museum at Night (i.e., the out-of-hours opening of some of London's most important museums), the Chelsea Flower Show and the Foodies Festival (towards the end of May).
For lovers of country style, I also recommend the Country Living London Spring Fair, a great fair where you can find ideas about decorating, how to spruce up your garden, and even some original garments to spruce up your wardrobe. All in pure country style!

London in Summer

Summer is perhaps the best time to visit London, thanks to the more pleasant temperatures and the brighter-than-usual buzz of life in the squares, outdoor pubs and popular street food markets. Among the season's most unmissable events is thesummer opening of Buckingham Palace (starting July 21) and the long-awaited Notting Hill Carnival in late August. Celebrated since 1965, this event organized by members of London's West Indian community has become increasingly popular year after year, establishing itself as an internationally renowned event and attracting the attention of more than a million curious visitors. Today, the Notting Hill Carnival has become one of the largest street carnivals in the world.

London in the Fall

Even in autumn, London never ceases to amaze, and when the parks are colored with the warm hues brought by the new season, the city seems suspended in a beautiful painting. Strolling through the parks and along the main shopping streets takes on a whole other charm, but it is the scheduled events that are special at this time of year. One of the most famous is the Totally Thames Festival held throughout September, which enlivens the riverbanks with concerts, events, and parades of old sailing ships (in memory of the British Navy).

Another not so well known one is the Open House London weekend (also in September, but the date is not fixed and changes every year), during which London opens its palaces and secret gardens-a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to discover new corners of the capital!

London in Winter

Winter in London is not just about Christmas and New Year's Eve, yet these are the two most magical times to visit the city and savor it in a whole new light. The core of the festive spirit culminates in Trafalgar Square, where thecapital's largest Christmas tree (donated annually from Oslo) is decorated. Skating rinks are also popular and are often set up in unusual places, such as the one that is installed inside the Natural History Museum.

For children, a visit to Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, the Christmas-themed amusement park with toy and candy stalls, a mini Ferris wheel and Santa's grotto, ishighly recommended. Alternatively for adults, there are Christmas markets at Wintertime in Southbank Centre. For New Year's Eve, on the other hand, don't miss the fireworks display at the London Eye (remember, however, that for the past few years you need to buy your ticket well in advance).

How to dress: what to pack

• In winter: warm clothes (wool sweaters, heavy socks, coat, etc.), comfortable and water-resistant shoes, scarf and hat to protect yourself from the wind

• In summer: clothes suitable for mid-season (you would hardly be able to wear shorts and short-sleeved T-shirts); avoid sandals, ballet flats or other footwear that could easily get soaked

• In fall and spring: mid-season clothes (sweatshirts, long jeans, raincoat). Don't forget that the weather is dandy: a folding umbrella is always useful in any season!

Haven't booked your trip yet? Check out our offers!

• Cheap flights: Cheap flights from €14.91 - check out the deals

• Where to stay: Hotels and b&b from €67.00 per room - check out the deals

• Recommended cards, tickets and tours: tour of the Churchill War Rooms Ticket for Tower of London and Crown Jewels Harry Potter: tour of Warner Bros Studios Priority ticket for the London Eye