It may be Springtime but what’s April weather in London England really like? Is April a good time to visit and what should you pack? Here’s a real local’s eye view: from April temperatures in London and what to wear, to seasonal things to do and events in the capital. Find out all the pros and cons of visiting London in April.
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Is the April weather in London England rainy, warm or rather chilly? Will you need to pack warm jackets or summer dresses? And what’s April in London like for visitors? I’ve lived in London all my adult life, so here are the facts you need about the weather for London in April and fun things to do in Springtime in our capital city.
What is April London weather really like?
April weather in London is famously varied, not only though the month but also year by year. It is quite possible to head out on a walk in a thick winter coat in April, and then a couple of weeks later be soaking up the rays in a tee-shirt. I think of April as the very beginnings of the summer season: the days are getting longer and sunnier and we can put away winter clothes!
All my photos in this post were taken in London in April, over the last few years.
April London weather facts
The average temperature in London in April is 9°C (48.2°F) with average highs of 13°C and lows of 6°C. I’ve experienced cooler spells in April too, even a bit of snow, as well as occasional years when the mercury has risen above 20°C (68°F). Daily temperatures can gradually increase across the course of the month – this isn’t guaranteed either. They are a little lower than the May temperatures in London.
April London weather includes cloudy skies and sunny days. You can expect an average of 5 hours of sunshine daily, which is a significant improvement on March. And by late April these sunshine hours should hopefully be increasing.
April is one of the driest months of the year in London. The average rainfall is 43 mm over 16 days.
London snow in April is unlikely – but it’s not unknown. If it does snow in April it usually only stays around for a day or two.
So those are the facts. Statistics for April London weather in 2023 show that we had 12 sunny days, cloudy skies on 7 days and rain of some sort on 11 days.
London weather year round
To get an idea of how April London weather compares to the rest of the year here are some London climate facts. Bearing in mind, as the Met Office points out: “The UK is well known for the variability of its weather”….
- January is the coldest month in London with the mean minimum temperature around 3°C.
- July is the warmest month in London with mean daily maximum temperatures of 23.5°C (74.3°F).
- The wettest month in London tends to be November, whilst March and April are some of the driest.
- Heatwaves can happen during July or August and usually last for several days. Thanks to the urban heat-island effect the UK capital can be one of the hottest spots in the country.
- The hottest day of the year in London in 2023 was 33.2°C (91.8°F) on 9 Sept. In 2022 the hottest day was 19 July when temperatures hit 40°C (104°F).
- The coldest day of the year in London in 2023 was 23 Jan, when temperatures dropped to -7°C(24.8°F) in the early hours of the morning, though they rose to 5°C (41°F) during the day.
Hours of daylight in London in April
As April temperatures in London rise, the Spring days get longer too.
British Summer Time begins on Sunday 31 March in 2024, when the nation puts its clocks one hour ahead. This creates lighter evenings and darker mornings, and really does give the sense that we’re stepping into the summer months.
Sunrise and sunset times in April The sun rises at 6.34 am on 1 April and sets at 7.34pm. But the daylight hours increase as the month progresses, so by the end of April sunrise is at 5.33 am and sunset at 8.22pm. That’s nearly two whole extra hours of daylight.
The longest day of the year in the UK is at the summer solstice which is 20 or 21 June.
Is April a good time to visit London?
April is my favourite month in London. It’s the time of year when sap is rising, buds are budding, birds are singing and London’s many parks and gardens spring into life. Cherry trees blossom in April and you can enjoy some wonderful blue sky days here.
April London weather marks a noticeable shift away from the chilliness of winter. And in springtime you avoid the heat and crowds of the high tourist season which falls in the warmest months of June, July and August.
It’s a fantastic time to explore the city. You can enjoy the spring flowers and the relative calm before peak season and make the most of longer days for outdoor exploring or day trips into the English countryside. And despite all the talk of April showers, London weather in April is often relatively dry.
Pros and Cons of London in April
April weather in London can be mild and lovely. And it’s a time of year that’s full of promise. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons to help you decide whether it’s the right month for your visit.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| April is not yet peak season: so London is less busy than in the summer | But you’ll find more crowds during public holidays and school breaks plus some limited openings during Easter weekend |
| Milder weather: temperatures are typically pleasanter than March | April showers: the old saying sometimes holds true, so pack an umbrella in case of a rainy day |
| Spring blossom: the parks and garden squares are in full bloom | Blossom time is variable: it can be early or late in Spring depending on the weather |
| Lower prices: you may find cheaper deals for flights and accommodation | Prices can spike over the Easter period and may also be higher during UK school holidays |
| Longer days: mean more hours of daylight for sightseeing and exploring | Evenings can still be cool: so bring layers for when the temperatures drop. |
Easter in London
The four day Easter weekend, which includes two public holidays as well as Easter Sunday, can often fall in April. British schools’ Easter holidays usually coincide with this. So in 2024 Easter weekend is Friday 29 March to Monday 1 April, and schools in the borough of Westminster, London will be on holiday from Friday 29 March to Friday 12 April.
Good Friday and Easter Monday are public holidays in the UK. This means public transport services and store opening hours are usually reduced over Easter weekend with most shops closing on Easter Sunday. You may find reduced hours and some closures at attractions and museums too. At the same time, Easter weekend and the school holidays is a busy time in London.
You may love Easter in London with its special events and atmosphere. It’s just another factor to take into consideration when you plan your trip.
Things to do in London in April
All the usual things to do in London apply. But here are some unique ideas, sights and events to enjoy in London in April.
Spring blooms in London parks and streets
With the warmer weather of London in April parks and neighbourhoods burst into flower. This is the best time to enjoy the fresh Spring blooms. But the timing of blossom in London is an inexact science. If we’ve had a cold winter then the trees will flower later. And daffodils and tulips are also very influenced by the weather.
Generally speaking in London, April is the month for cherry blossom, though they can open as early as March if the weather’s been mild. The residential streets of Kensington and Chelsea are especially pretty at cherry blossom time and you’ll also find blooms in many of London’s beautiful gardens and parks. Kyoto Garden in Kensington, St James’s Park and Kew Gardens all have spring displays.
Lilacs and wisteria may often come into flower at the end of April too. Whilst rhododendrons and azaleas continue their kaleidoscopic season. You’ll find good collections in Kew Gardens, the Isabella Plantation in Richmond Park and pretty little Cannizaro Park in Wimbledon Village.
And I love London’s lesser known green spaces too. Battersea Park, just south of the Thames at Chelsea, has a cafe and terrace beside the boating lake which is perfect on a sunny day. Whilst Russell Square in Bloomsbury is a peaceful place to enjoy some Spring air after a visit to the British Museum.
Seasonal food in April in London
Tuck into the tastes of Spring with seasonal British dishes and ingredients. You’ll find fresh asparagus on the menus – the season in Britain is short, only six weeks – as well as tender spring lamb and pink rhubarb.
At Easter time look out for traditional Simnel cake, a fruit cake with an almond paste layer and decorations. Hot cross buns are also seasonal specialities. Shops and supermarkets fill with chocolate Easter eggs of all sizes and prices, as well as the super-popular little Cadbury’s Creme Eggs which are only for sale in the weeks leading up to Easter.
Outdoors in London in April
Explore the popular attractions in London with fewer crowds than in peak season. Mild April London weather is ideal for watching the Changing the Guard, or visiting the Tower of London or the London Eye.
It’s also a great time of year to discover central London on foot. Without too much risk of rain, crowds or soaring temperatures you can walk for hours. Cross Hyde Park from Mayfair to Kensington, explore the hidden gardens of Holborn or walk beside the canal from Little Venice to Camden. Or take a walking tour to open your eyes to hidden gems around the capital.
If April temperatures in London are heading in the right direction you can also celebrate the beginning of the open-air theatre season in London. Shakespeare’s Globe is the obvious place to start, whilst the Regent’s Park Open Air theatre programme begins with a family show in April.
Fine weather in London in April signals time to visit the city’s best outdoor markets. Favourites are Borough Market and Portobello Road, but for a local’s haunt try Leather Lane in Holborn for great street food options on weekday lunchtimes. Or head to historical Greenwich where the market is open 7 days a week.
Take a boat cruise along the river Thames to the Tate Modern, or to the Cutty Sark and museums at Greenwich. Or enjoy an afternoon tea cruise on the river.
Watch the Changing of the Guard
If you’ve never seen this traditional piece of pageantry, April is a great time to experience it. The British Army’s ceremonial troops change into their summer uniforms when the clocks go forward at the end of March. Winter’s cloaks and greatcoats are replaced by their iconic scarlet tunics. And if you avoid the peak Easter periods April is a quieter time of year to watch the ceremony. See the spectacle in London at Buckingham Palace and Horseguards Parade, or in the town of Windsor.
What to do on rainy days in London in April
Don’t worry, the capital has plenty to offer on a wet day.
London’s free museums have engaging permanent displays whether you love the arts, culture, science or history. And every Spring brings fresh and fascinating new exhibitions.
Head to the shops. And avoid the puddles by browsing the cool stores and quirky stalls in Covent Garden’s covered market or the upscale boutiques in Piccadilly’s pretty arcades.
An Easter afternoon tea is a treat during the holiday period. Escape a cloudy day and soak up the vibes in one of London’s heritage hotels. The Cafe Royal serves afternoon tea in the golden opulence of the Grill Room.
Day trips from London in April
April’s lengthening hours of daylight are perfect for day trips from London into the English countryside. You could visit Stonehenge or explore the villages of the Cotswolds. Or check out one of the pretty and historic nearby cities to London like the university towns of Oxford or Cambridge for a blend of academia and medieval beauty.
This full day tour gets you to Stonehenge in time for an exclusive and goosebump-inducing early morning viewing of the stones from the inner circle, before the day’s visitors arrive. Continue your journey through the beautiful English counties of Wiltshire and Somerset, with visits to the gorgeous village of Lacock as well as Bath. This good value tour gets excellent reviews.
Closer to home this is also a good month to take a day trip to Windsor Castle or Hampton Court Palace.
London April Events
Easter events in London
Easter marks a special time in London with religious services, concerts, and family-friendly events like Easter egg hunts at many popular locations.
Westminster Abbey and St Paul’s Cathedral are closed for sightseeing on Good Friday and Easter Sunday but you can attend their Easter services. And the same applies to the many beautiful and historic churches across the city.
The Passion of Jesus A re-enactment performed by a cast of more than 100 volunteers, has becoming an annual event in Trafalgar Square on Good Friday. Parental guidance is advised.
Sporting events in London
Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race on the river Thames The date of the race varies between late March and early April. Putney Bridge is a great spot to see the start, or go to Chiswick Bridge for the finish. You could even find a cosy pub with riverside views! 30 March 2024.
The London Marathon The famous 26.2 mile London Marathon loops around the city from Greenwich to Buckingham Palace. Popular viewpoints are at Cutty Sark, Tower Bridge, and along the Embankment. 21 April 2024.
London Landmarks Half Marathon Organised by Tommy’s, the route through the City and Westminster includes history-inspired activities for spectators too. And look out for the brave runners wearing impressive (and surely uncomfortable?) landmark-inspired costumes. 7 April 2024
London festivals in April
Shakespeare’s Birthday The month of April is the time to Shakespeare’s birthday. The Globe Theatre often pays homage to the Bard with a special event.
Coffee Festival Join fellow coffee enthusiasts at the London Coffee Festival, showcasing the London’s coffee scene with tastings and workshops. 11 – 14 April at The Truman Brewery.
St George’s Day Although he’s the patron saint of England, St George’s Day isn’t much celebrated in the UK. But London holds a small festival in Trafalgar Square with traditional English food, music and even some morris dancing! 21 April 2024
Vaisakhi Festival The vibrant festival of Vaisakhi celebrates Sikh and Punjabi heritage and culture. Trafalgar Square, 6 April 2024.
What to wear in London in April
April London weather is changeable. So you’ll need to pack versatile pieces that you can layer. Once you’re close to your departure date check the weather forecast at BBC Weather to get an idea of the temperatures that are likely during your stay.
I’ve worn everything from padded winter coats to summer dresses when I’ve been out and about in London in April. I know this isn’t helpful when you’re trying to refine your packing list – but it is the reality of our climate some years.
What to pack for London in April
Tee-shirts or lightweight thermal base layers.
Long-sleeved shirts and jumpers to layer or wear alone.
Raincoat: A lightweight raincoat will look smart and help to keep you dry.
Jacket: A quilted jacket or wool peacoat is a stylish option that will give you an extra layer of warmth during the day or in the cooler evenings.
Water-resistant shoes: Given London’s penchant for showers, you need shoes that can cope. Ideally bring comfortable flat soles that will carry you over pavements and cobbles with ease.
Accessories: Check the forecast to see if you need a warm scarf and hat.
If you get caught out by April London weather these are the shops where you can buy affordable layers or lightweight summer pieces. You’ll find them on most London high streets. Uniqlo, Marks & Spencer, John Lewis
An umbrella There’s a chance of rain at any time of year so an umbrella is a good idea. Pick a strong but small and lightweight folding umbrella that you can carry in your handbag or coat pocket. Bring along a little ziplock bag so if your brolly does get wet you can shake it out and temporarily seal it up. It’s easier to manage a wet umbrella than a soggy coat!
Sunglasses: hopefully you’ll need these too if the April London weather is obliging!
Please note that all visitor information here is for guidance only. Please check the relevant websites for the most up to date information eg. accommodation details, tickets, entrance requirements, opening times etc.
What to read next
Guide to central London: neighbourhoods and things to do
Weather in June in London England
About the author Nancy Roberts is a former women’s magazine editor and writer. She lives in London and is mum to two 20-something boys. In Map&Family she shares info and inspiration for curious travellers: singles and couples as well as families travelling with teens and young adults.
All photos are all rights reserved. Please do not reproduce these photos without prior written permission
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