The weather in London in January is typically cold and damp, with average temperatures ranging from 3°C (37°F) to 8°C (46°F). While it can be unpredictable, it’s not uncommon to experience rain or fog during this time. However, there are still plenty of reasons why January can be a good time to visit London:
- Fewer crowds: London is a popular tourist destination, and January is one of the quieter months. This means that you’ll be able to avoid the long lines and crowds that are common during the peak season.
- Lower prices: January is also a time when many hotels and attractions offer discounts, so you’ll be able to save money on your trip.
- Unique events: January is home to a number of unique events, including the New Year’s Day Parade and the Chinese New Year celebrations.
- Beautiful scenery: Even though the weather may be cold, London is still a beautiful city to visit in January. The streets are decorated with Christmas lights, and the parks are covered in a blanket of snow.
Things to do in London in January:
- Visit the January Sales: Take advantage of the sales to find some great deals on clothes, electronics, and other items.
- Go ice skating: There are a number of ice skating rinks open in London during January, including the rink at Somerset House and the Natural History Museum rink.
- See a pantomime: Pantomimes are a traditional British Christmas and New Year’s entertainment, and there are a number of them performed in London in January.
- Visit the museums: Many of London’s museums are free to visit, making them a great option for a budget-friendly day out.
- Take a walk through the parks: Even though the weather may be cold, London’s parks are still beautiful to visit in January. Wrap up warm and enjoy a walk through Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens, or Regent’s Park.
Overall, January can be a great time to visit London if you’re looking for a quieter and more affordable experience. Just be sure to pack your warm clothes!
Weather In London During January
- Average temperature: 4.3°C (39.7°F)
- Average high temperature: 7.2°C (44.9°F)
- Average low temperature: 1.4°C (34.5°F)
- Average precipitation: 55.9 mm (2.2 in)
- Average number of rainy days: 11 days
January is one of the coldest months in London, with average temperatures hovering around 4°C. The weather is typically overcast and rainy, with occasional breaks of sunshine. Snowfall is rare, but it can happen.
Here are some more details about the weather in London in January:
- Wind: The wind in London is typically moderate, with an average speed of 15 mph.
- Humidity: The humidity in London is typically high, with an average of 85%.
- Daylight: The days in London are shorter in January, with an average of 8 hours of daylight.
If you’re planning a trip to London in January, be sure to pack warm clothes, including a coat, hat, scarf, and gloves. You’ll also want to bring an umbrella or raincoat in case of rain.
Things To Do In London In January
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London’s New Year’s Day Parade: This annual parade takes place on January 1st and features colorful floats, marching bands, and performers from around the world. The parade route starts at Piccadilly Circus and ends at Parliament Square.
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Winter Lights Festival at Canary Wharf: This festival runs from mid-November to early January and features stunning light displays and installations throughout the Canary Wharf area. Visitors can enjoy interactive light sculptures, live music, and food stalls.
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Chinese New Year Celebrations: London has a large Chinese community, and Chinese New Year is celebrated with a variety of events and activities across the city. These include parades, lion dances, and traditional Chinese food fairs.
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Up Helly Aa Fire Festival: This unique festival takes place in the Shetland Islands on the last Tuesday in January. It involves a procession of Vikings, a burning galley, and a torch-lit parade.
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Burns Night Supper: This annual event is held on January 25th to celebrate the life and work of Scottish poet Robert Burns. Traditional Scottish dishes such as haggis, neeps, and tatties are served, and there are often readings of Burns’ poetry and traditional Scottish music.
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London Art Week: This week-long event takes place in late January and features a variety of art exhibitions and events across the city. Visitors can enjoy gallery openings, artist talks, and special exhibitions.
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London Fashion Week: This biannual event takes place in February, but the January shows often feature preview events and parties. Fashion enthusiasts can catch a glimpse of the latest trends and designs from some of the world’s top designers.
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Chelsea Physic Garden Winter Walk: This guided walk through the Chelsea Physic Garden takes place on select Wednesdays and Saturdays in January. Visitors can learn about the garden’s history and see the plants that thrive in the winter months.
Tourism In London, United Kingdom During January
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Weather: London’s weather in January is typically cold and wet, with average temperatures ranging from 3°C to 8°C (37°F to 46°F). Snow is rare, but fog and drizzle are common.
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Crowds: January is a relatively quiet time for tourism in London, so you can expect shorter lines and fewer crowds at popular attractions. This is a great time to visit if you want to avoid the hustle and bustle of the summer months.
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Prices: Hotel prices are typically lower in January than during other times of the year. You can also find good deals on flights and other travel expenses.
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Things to do: There are plenty of things to do in London in January, even if the weather is cold and wet. Here are a few ideas:
- Visit the city’s many museums and art galleries, such as the British Museum, the National Gallery, and the Tate Modern.
- Take a walk through one of London’s many parks, such as Hyde Park, Regent’s Park, or St. James’s Park.
- See a show in the West End, London’s theater district.
- Visit one of London’s many historical landmarks, such as the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, or the Houses of Parliament.
- Go shopping on Oxford Street, Regent Street, or Bond Street.
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Special events: January is a great time to visit London for a number of special events, including:
- The New Year’s Day Parade: This annual parade features marching bands, floats, and performers from all over the world.
- The Chinese New Year Parade: This colorful parade celebrates the Chinese New Year with traditional music, dance, and costumes.
- The London Fashion Week: This biannual event showcases the latest trends in fashion design.
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Tips for visiting London in January:
- Dress warmly, as the weather can be cold and wet.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be doing a lot of walking.
- Bring an umbrella or raincoat in case of rain.
- Book your hotel and flights in advance, as prices can be higher during peak season.
- Take advantage of the shorter lines and fewer crowds at popular attractions.
