Best time to visit the UK

There's no wrong time to explore Britain — just different versions of it. The Cotswolds in April looks nothing like the Cotswolds in October, and both are worth seeing. Here's an honest guide to what each season actually feels like, and what it's best for.

 

Spring (March–May)

Arguably the best kept secret in UK travel. The countryside is coming back to life, the days are getting longer, and the crowds haven't arrived yet. Temperatures sit somewhere between 9°C and 15°C — cool enough to walk comfortably, warm enough to enjoy it. The Cotswolds in spring, with blossom on the trees and daffodils along the roadsides, is hard to beat.

Pack a light waterproof. Rain is still part of the deal.

Best for: Countryside walks, quieter villages, and seeing Britain before the summer rush.

 

Summer (June–August)

The warmest and busiest time of year, with temperatures typically between 15°C and 25°C and up to 17 hours of daylight. Cornwall's coastline, the Scottish Highlands, and long evenings in a pub garden — summer in Britain at its best is genuinely brilliant. The trade-off is that popular spots get busy and prices go up. Book early.

Best for: Coastal trips, long days, and making the most of the light.

 

Autumn (September–November)

Cooler, quieter, and one of the most visually stunning times to be in Britain. Temperatures range from 10°C to 18°C, and the colours across the Lake District, the Cotswolds and the Scottish Highlands in October are something to plan a trip around. Fewer tourists, more breathing room, and the kind of light that makes every photograph look better than you deserve.

Best for: Scenery, photography, and getting the most out of popular destinations without the crowds.

 

Winter (December–February)

Cold — between 0°C and 8°C — but not without its appeal. December in particular has a lot going for it: Christmas markets, candlelit pubs, and a quietness to the countryside that's hard to find at other times of year. Snow is rare in England but more likely in Scotland, where the Highlands in winter have a drama all of their own. January and February are the quietest months of the year for tourism, which means lower prices and space to breathe at the sites that are heaving in summer.

Best for: Festive atmosphere, winter landscapes in Scotland, and budget-conscious travellers.

 

One thing that's true all year round

Pack a waterproof jacket. However good the forecast looks, Britain will do what it wants with the weather. It's part of the charm — mostly. Our tours run rain or shine. 

We run our multi-day tours March-October and our day tours year-round (with a short break in January). Browse all tours to find the right time for you.