London, a year-round travel guide

dear citizens, time to help you plan your trip to London. Yep-- we're talking about the Big Smoke. London is a city that's always ready to entertain, no matter the season. To give you a hand, we've whipped up a month-by-month breakdown of all the exciting happenings. All set? Let's jump right in!

best time to visit London

the best time to visit London is during shoulder season, from April to June and from September to October. During these months, hotels and flights are affordable and the city is all yours to explore. Fewer crowds, but plenty of action. Generally offering milder weather and a ton of unique events. But as we've said before, London's a gem any time of the year. So, let's take a closer peek at it's seasonality.

book your hotel

high vs low season
London's high season usually runs from June to September, with another peak in December. Are you all about those long summer days, when the sun is shining and festivals are in full swing? Summer might just be the perfect time for your visit. Christmas market fanatic? Don’t miss out on London in December – you’re going to love it.

On the flip side, if you're not afraid of the cold and love snagging a deal, low season (that's winter for you) will be right up your alley! Picture cosy pubs and twinkling lights – it really is quite magical. With fewer tourists about, London feels like your own private playground!

weather or not, here we come
What's London without a little rain? Just remember to bring an umbrella and a positive attitude. The city's weather is as unpredictable as the next viral TikTok trend but it's all part of the charm.

London’s most rainy months
With 141 rainy days a year, you're more likely to forget your own name than leave home without a brolly. January gets the award for the most teardrops from the sky, at a whopping 15 days. Meanwhile, June tries to play it cool with a mere 9 days of rain. The city's motto? There’s no such thing as bad weather, just wrong clothes!

christmas cracker

Christmas in London is magical as colourful markets pop up across the city, covered in twinkly lights. Expect handmade gifts, delicious treats and a healthy dose of festive cheer. Just don’t miss the Christmas London – a spectacle of their own – on Oxford Street and Regent Street. Really want to treat yourself? Go for luxurious afternoon tea with champagne at a luxury hotel – they look even better this time of year.


winter wonder(ing)land

Winter in London is as cosy as your favourite cashmere sweater. The chill might not have you frolicking outdoors all day, but there's no shortage of indoor fun to keep you occupied! Museums, art galleries and the legendary Warner Bros Studio Tour are all perfect escapes from the cold.

January joys

January in London gets a tough rep – cold, grey, wet – but it's also incredibly calm as a post-holiday peace descends. Some would even say the the ideal time for a sneaky romantic getaway… What could be cosier than a twinkly dinner (complete with stunning view) at the Shard or Duck & Waffle? Talk about heart warming. 

Love is in the air in February

It may be cold outside but February in London is hot, hot, hot! See the city all dressed up in red and pink for Valentine's Day, before quickly changing into its Sunday best for London Fashion Week. Walk the bustling streets with your special someone and let the romantic vibe of the city sweep you off your feet. 

marvelous March

Get ready for a jolly good time as London celebrates St. Patrick’s Day. Expect parades, colourful carnivals and plenty of cheer for the world’s favourite adopted holiday. Sure, it might still be a bit nippy out, but the joy of spring is just around the corner and the lighter evenings are enough to keep spirits high.

spring fever

Come spring, London is bloomin’ beautiful. The parks come alive, the city buzzes with activity and Londoners are all smiles as they bid adieu to another winter.

awesome April

The city shakes off its winter coat in April. Head to Hyde Park or Regents Park to see the trees in bloom – if you’re lucky, you’ll catch the pink cherry blossoms! If you're up for some excitement, hit the streets for the London Marathon, a citywide event that brings together professional athletes and spirited amateurs alike. And let's not forget Underbelly Festival – a cultural extravaganza, with everything from performances to street food.

magical May

May is when London truly shines. The world-renowned Chelsea Flower Show makes its return, as does London Craft Week – a celebration of creativity and craftsmanship. The Spring bank holiday is the perfect excuse to relax outside with a cocktail. Fingers crossed the sun comes out to play. 

jumpin' June

June in a word? Party. As the long summer days kick in, the city comes alive, hosting more concerts than you can count (unless you can count really high). Music festivals happen all over the city – they’re the place to be if you enjoy like good vibes and cool crowds. And who doesn’t! 

sizzling summer

Summer in London is a dream come true. The city is at its absolute best – Sunshine! Sports! Pop-ups! Parties!  Don’t miss a single second of it.

jubilant July

July in London has it all – cricket season, open-air movie screenings under the stars, buzzing rooftop bars (with equally buzzing crowds). If you're a tennis fan, get ready for some edge-of-the-seat action as Wimbledon takes centre stage.

awesome August

The party is in full swing come August. From weekend festivals to concerts in the parks, there's always something happening. Don’t miss the London Craft Beer Festival to sample some of the finest brews in town.

sweet September

September might signal the end of summer, but it doesn't mean the fun's over! The London Design Festival is heaven for design enthusiasts. Football fan? The Premier League returns – get excited.

holiday highs

Public (or ‘Bank’)  holidays in London are always something to look forward to. New Year's Day or Easter Monday, these days often come with special events and accompanying celebrations. Two of the best loved, May Day and Spring bank holiday, herald the beginning of summer, with locals and tourists alike flocking to the park for sun (hopefully) and fun (definitely). Join them!


book your hotel

fabulous fall

There’s something magical about autumn in London. From the colourful fallen leaves to the cosy vibe all around, it's a season that’ll make you fall in love.

outstanding October

October is when the cultural scene in London really kicks off. Film buffs flock to the city for the London Film Festival, while karaoke bars across the city welcome aspiring singers for a night of fun and music.

noteworthy November

Think of November as the calm before the storm. It's generally a quieter time for visitors as London gears up for the festive season. We say take the chance to experience the city at a more relaxed pace.

dazzling December

December in the city is nothing short of enchanting. The streets are beautifully adorned with Christmas lights, ice skating rinks pop up everywhere (including iconic spots like Somerset House) and Hyde Park transforms into a winter wonderland. All together now! *It’s the most wonderful time of the year.*

citizenM says: see you in London!

There you have it – a comprehensive guide to enjoying London year round! From the sunny days of summer to the charming winter months (yes, really!), this city has something for everyone, anytime. Pack your bags, book your stay at citizenM hotels and let's make some memories. London is ready for you – and so are we!


see all London hotels