England is home to royal palaces, charming countryside, and unpredictable weather. It’s a country where you can experience four seasons in one day—no joke. You could start your morning with sunshine, get caught in an afternoon rainstorm, see hail in the evening, and then enjoy a beautiful sunset as if nothing happened.
Now, the big question: When is the best time to visit England?
Spring (Late March to Early June) – The Best All-Rounder
If England were a movie, spring would be the part where everything starts going right. The days get longer, the flowers bloom, and the people who have spent months wrapped in 10 layers of clothing finally emerge into the daylight.
Weather in Spring
- Temperature: 10°C–20°C (50°F–68°F)
- Sunshine: More than winter, but don’t get too excited.
- Rain: Yes, you can always expect rain, even when it’s a sunny day.
No, seriously, spring is the best time to visit England. It’s not too cold, and it’s not too hot. But whenever it starts raining, you can grab a cup of tea and enjoy the British complaining. Sometimes, it gets cold at night, so bring a coat if you want to go out in the evening.
The best part? Fewer tourists compared to summer, which means shorter lines at major attractions like Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, and Stonehenge.
The Best Things to Do in Spring
- See the cherry blossoms in London’s parks: I would recommend going—very beautiful. If you like anime, then I guarantee you will like it.
- Attend Shakespeare’s birthday celebration: Happens in April in Stratford-upon-Avon (his hometown). If you don’t know Shakespeare, he is an English playwright and poet. I would recommend getting his book too (my favourite one is Hamlet).
- The Grand National Horse Race: A huge event in Liverpool. Even if you don’t like horses, the hats people wear are worth seeing. To be honest, that’s the only reason I go there.
- Bath: Immerse yourself in the history of the Roman Baths and relax at the Thermae Bath Spa. The location is Hetling Pump Room, Hot Bath St, Bath BA1 1SJ, UK.
Spring Travel Tips
- Pack for every season. It can be sunny at breakfast, raining at lunch, and snowing by dinner. Layers are your best friend.
Summer (June to August) – The Best for Festivals and Long Days
If you love long, sunny days and a busy atmosphere, then summer is your season. England comes alive with festivals, outdoor dining, and the rare sight of people wearing sunglasses (often unnecessarily). But be aware—if you want to go to these festivals, it is likely to be crowded and boiling hot.
Weather in Summer
- Temperature: 15°C–30°C (59°F–86°F)
- Sunshine: A lot more than usual, but don’t trust it—it can always betray you.
- Rain: I know you’re shocked, but yes, there’s still some rain here and there.
Summer in England means long daylight hours, and sunset can be as late as 10 p.m. in June. You can fit in twice as much sightseeing compared to winter, but it’s also peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and longer queues.
The Best Things to Do in Summer
- Wimbledon: Tennis, strawberries, and celebrities pretending they understand the rules.
- Glastonbury Festival: A huge music festival (and the best place to lose your voice—and possibly a shoe).
- Visit Brighton or Cornwall beaches: But remember, the water is still freezing.
- Blackpool Pleasure Beach: Location – 525 Ocean Blvd, Blackpool FY4 1EZ, UK. It is a funfair with all the cool rides, and after that, you can go to the nearby beach. Personally, my favourite—but be careful, it can get crowded. It’s wise not to go on weekends.
Summer Travel Tip
- Book everything in advance. Hotels, trains, even restaurants—summer is busy, and England doesn’t handle crowds well (you will queue for everything).
Autumn (September to November) – The Best for Peace and Pretty Views
Autumn is the secret best season to visit England. The summer tourists go home, prices drop, and the trees turn beautiful shades of red, orange, and gold. Plus, it’s the season for cozy pubs and pumpkin-spiced everything.
Weather in Autumn
- Temperature: 8°C–18°C (46°F–64°F)
- Sunshine: A respectable amount, but don’t be naive.
- Rain: Take a lucky guess.
Autumn is less crowded, meaning you can actually take a photo at tourist attractions without 20 strangers in the background. The countryside, particularly the Lake District and Cotswolds, is breathtaking in the fall.
The Best Things to Do in Autumn
- See autumn colours in Richmond Park, London: Bonus—there are wild deer.
- Cheltenham Literature Festival: An absolute must for book lovers.
- Halloween ghost tours in York: The city is super haunted, and they lean into it.
Autumn Travel Tip
- Bring waterproof shoes. Wet socks are nobody’s friend.
Winter (December to February) – The Best for Christmas Magic and Cozy Vibes
If you love Christmas lights, cozy pubs, and the possibility of snow, winter is a great time to visit England.
Weather in Winter
- Temperature: 0°C–8°C (32°F–46°F)
- Sunshine: Hardly any.
- Rain, snow, fog, and general gloominess.
Winter in England can be magical, especially in December when Christmas markets fill the streets. But be warned: January and February can be brutally cold and dark. If you don’t like wearing 10 layers just to go outside, you might want to reconsider.
The biggest downside? The sun sets before you’ve even finished lunch. But hey, at least it’s a good excuse to stay inside and enjoy afternoon tea.
The Best Things to Do in Winter
- Visit Christmas markets: London, Manchester, and Bath have the best ones.
- Sit by a fireplace in a pub: Order a Sunday roast and enjoy life.
- Watch New Year’s Eve fireworks in London: Just be ready for big crowds.
Winter Travel Tips
- Dress in layers! Trains, restaurants, and shops can be randomly overheated, while the streets are freezing.
Still Not Sure When to Go? Here’s a Cheat Sheet:
- Best for overall experience: Spring (March–June)
- Best for outdoor fun & festivals: Summer (June–August)
- Best for peace & autumn colours: Autumn (September–November)
- Best for Christmas lovers & cozy vibes: Winter (December–February)
If you’re hoping to avoid both rain and tourists, I’ve got bad news: England always has both. But each season has its own charm, and as long as you bring an umbrella and a sense of humour, you’ll have an amazing time.
One last pro tip: Whatever season you choose, always prepare for rain. Seriously. England’s weather doesn’t follow the rules it just does what it wants. Pack an umbrella, wear layers, and embrace the unpredictability.
Safe travels, and enjoy England!