'From the first buds of spring to autumn days when the trees are bursting with colour, the UK's weather changes season-by-season.'
You may be surprised to hear that, according to the World Meteorological Organisation, London has less annual rainfall than Lisbon, Paris, Rome and New York!
The United Kingdom might have a reputation for cloud and rain - and yes, it does rain a lot - but in fact it has a mild and temperate climate. You'll probably experience frost (and sometimes snow) during the colder winter months, and warm summer days with plenty of sunshine. From barbecues in July to snowball fights in January, you can enjoy the UK's weather whatever the season!
The United Kingdom might have a reputation for cloud and rain - and yes, it does rain a lot - but in fact it has a mild and temperate climate. You'll probably experience frost (and sometimes snow) during the colder winter months, and warm summer days with plenty of sunshine. From barbecues in July to snowball fights in January, you can enjoy the UK's weather whatever the season!
Temperature and travel
You may be surprised to hear that, according to the BBC, London has less annual rainfall than Lisbon, Paris, Rome and New York. In general UK weather is rarely extreme, so you can travel around the country easily and safely.
Average temperatures in the UK vary from place-to-place. According to the BBC, in London the average temperature is 4ºC in January and 18ºC in July, although occasionally it can rise above 30ºC in the summer.
Northern England, Northern Ireland, Wales and Scotland may experience slightly lower temperatures throughout the year, but most of the time the difference is small and weather conditions are similar across most UK areas.
The UK rarely experiences storms or extreme weather conditions. If you are planning a trip around the UK, it's good to know that usually the weather does not affect transport, though from time-to-time in winter you may be delayed by snow or icy roads.
Average temperatures in the UK vary from place-to-place. According to the BBC, in London the average temperature is 4ºC in January and 18ºC in July, although occasionally it can rise above 30ºC in the summer.
Northern England, Northern Ireland, Wales and Scotland may experience slightly lower temperatures throughout the year, but most of the time the difference is small and weather conditions are similar across most UK areas.
The UK rarely experiences storms or extreme weather conditions. If you are planning a trip around the UK, it's good to know that usually the weather does not affect transport, though from time-to-time in winter you may be delayed by snow or icy roads.
And when it's sunny, what better way to spend the day than heading to the seaside? In the UK you are never more than 72 miles from the nearest coast.
The seasons
The seasons
The UK has four distinct seasons:
- Spring (March, April and May) is often characterised by sudden cold rain storms (known as 'April showers') alongside brief periods of sunny weather, blossoming trees and flowering plants.
- Summer (June, July and August) is the UK's warmest season, often with long sunny days, occasional thunderstorms and, in some years, heatwaves.
- Autumn (September, October and November) can be mild and dry or wet and windy. It's the season when the leaves fall from the trees and the temperature dips.
- Winter (December, January and February) is the UK's coldest season, often with freezing temperatures, icy conditions and sometimes snowfall.
Be prepared
On sunny days, take care to wear sun cream and drink plenty of water. Although it might not feel hot, unprotected skin can burn quickly in the sun.
Here are our top tips for staying warm and dry on cold Winter days:
On sunny days, take care to wear sun cream and drink plenty of water. Although it might not feel hot, unprotected skin can burn quickly in the sun.
Here are our top tips for staying warm and dry on cold Winter days:
- Invest in a warm duvet or blankets for your bedroom
- Dry your hair before you leave the house
- Wear several layers of clothing, including a scarf, hat and gloves
- Take an umbrella or wear a raincoat
- Check bus and train times in advance (you may be able to get live updates on your phone or computer) so you wait less time in the cold
- Make sure you have warm footwear, including socks and water-resistant shoes.
Stay safe in the great outdoors
If you're walking in the countryside, you'll need to take extra care, as the UK's cliffs, moors and mountains can be dangerous when wet, icy, during fog or after snowfall. Be prepared: plan ahead, know the route you want to take and always bring printed maps. And be sure to bring your mobile phone with you in case of emergencies, but don't rely on it to find your way around - it might run out of power, for one reason!
For local weather forecasts, go to the Met Office website and tune in to local radio or television stations.
You can explore different UK regions using the Education UK interactive map.
If you're walking in the countryside, you'll need to take extra care, as the UK's cliffs, moors and mountains can be dangerous when wet, icy, during fog or after snowfall. Be prepared: plan ahead, know the route you want to take and always bring printed maps. And be sure to bring your mobile phone with you in case of emergencies, but don't rely on it to find your way around - it might run out of power, for one reason!
For local weather forecasts, go to the Met Office website and tune in to local radio or television stations.
You can explore different UK regions using the Education UK interactive map.
