Spring (March - May)

Spring is one of the best times to visit the UK, with milder weather, blooming gardens and far fewer tourists than in summer. The countryside comes alive with flowers, especially in places like the Cotswolds or the Lake District.

Weather:

Mild, with temperatures typically ranging from 10°C to 17°C (50°F to 63°F), although 20°C can occasionally be seen in May, as well as 0°C in March!

Events:

• Chelsea Flower Show (May) in London, ideal for garden enthusiasts.
• Easter celebrations bring events and parades across the country.

Why visit:

There are fewer crowds compared to summer, making it easier to explore popular attractions such as Stonehenge or Edinburgh Castle.

Summer (June - August)

Summer is the peak tourist season in the UK with warm weather and plenty of festivals. If you enjoy outdoor activities and festivals, this is the perfect time to visit.

Weather:

Warm, with typical temperatures from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F).

Events:

• Wimbledon in London (July), perfect for tennis fans.
• The Edinburgh Festival Fringe (August), the world’s largest arts festival.
• Notting Hill Carnival in London, celebrating Caribbean culture.

Why visit:

Long daylight hours and (usually) good weather for sightseeing. Popular destinations such as London, Bath or the Scottish Highlands are full of activities.

Autumn (September - November)

Autumn can be a wonderful time to visit, with stunning foliage and mild weather, making it a great option to avoid the summer crowds but still enjoy exploring nature.

Weather:

Temperatures typically drop to 8°C - 15°C (46°F - 59°F), and it's a little wetter.

Events:

• Bonfire Night (November 5th) features fireworks across the UK.
• London Fashion Week (September) is a draw for fashion lovers.

Why visit:

Autumn foliage in the Lake District, the Scottish Highlands or Snowdonia National Park means stunning views of these and other locations. Fewer tourists make it easier to enjoy the UK's main attractions.

Winter (December - February)

Winter can be cold, wet and sometimes snowy but it's a magical time if you love Christmas markets and cosy pubs. Winter also offers opportunities to explore Britain's cities without the summer crowds.

Weather:

Cold, with temperatures between 0°C to 7°C (32°F to 45°F). Heavy snow is fairly rare but possible all over the UK, mostly on the higher ground.

Events:

• Christmas markets in cities like London, Edinburgh, Bath, Manchester, York.
• Hogmanay in Edinburgh, a massive New Year celebration.

Why visit:

If you're a fan of winter festivals, the UK's Christmas lights and markets are a must-see. Plus, the January sales in major cities offer great shopping opportunities.

Best Time Based on Budget

If you're looking to save money, the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) offer cheaper accommodation and flights with milder weather and fewer tourists. You should avoid summer if you’re on a budget, as prices tend to be higher due to the influx of tourists.

Best Time for Specific Activities

• Hiking: May to September, especially for places like Snowdonia, the Lake District or Scotland.
• City Tours: Spring and autumn provide the perfect balance of good weather and fewer crowds for exploring cities like London, Manchester or Edinburgh.
• Festivals: Summer is packed with music, art, and cultural festivals across the UK.