What to wear in London
London, United Kingdom
Packing for London is less about a perfect outfit and more about combinations you can adjust through the day.
Packing for London is less about a perfect outfit and more about combinations you can adjust through the day.
Facts only
Dec · Jan · Feb
Avg low 2–5°C / high 7–10°C · Rainy days: 10–16 / ~35–65 mm
Mar · Apr · May · Sep · Oct · Nov
Avg low 6–12°C / high 12–19°C · Rainy days: 8–14 / ~35–70 mm
Mar · Apr · May · Sep · Oct · Nov
Avg low 6–12°C / high 12–19°C · Rainy days: 8–14 / ~35–70 mm
Jun · Jul · Aug
Avg low 13–16°C / high 20–25°C (heatwave spikes possible) · Rainy days: 6–11 / ~35–65 mm
What it feels like
Trips tend to alternate between cooling down indoors and warming up outside—thin layers handle that loop best.
When it tends to work well
- • If you can layer (thin pieces), you can adapt even when forecasts swing.
- • Choosing shoes for walking-first comfort often reduces fatigue more than any clothing tweak.
- • When rain is possible, “staying dry” (materials, shoes) can matter more than styling.
When it may feel annoying
- • Trying to do everything with one outfit can get uncomfortable on days with big indoor-outdoor gaps.
- • Long walks without water-resistant shoes or spare socks can backfire even with light rain.
- • Thick fabrics in hot periods make fatigue accumulate over long days.
Typical outfit choices
These are “common choices,” not guarantees—wind/rain/AC can change how it feels.
- • 🌧️ Main drivers: London often runs on **drizzle/rain + wind + cloud cover**. Many days are more about staying dry than chasing a perfect temperature.
- • 🧥 Waterproof layer: umbrellas can struggle in wind. A thin hooded rain shell is high value.
- • 🧶 Layering: indoor heat (pubs, Tube) vs cool outdoor air can differ. Thin knits/cardigans make transitions easy.
- • 👟 Shoes: wet pavement is common. Traction helps, and water-resistant options feel better on rainy stretches.
- • ☀️ Summer (Jun–Aug): usually mild, but a few hot days can arrive. Pack light by default; keep heat prep optional.
- • ❄️ Winter (Dec–Feb): wind and dampness often drive comfort more than the thermometer. Waterproof outer + layers + light warmth works well.
Once you lock in a couple of constraints, the decision gets much easier.
Explore London
These pages are connected so you can compare conditions and decide for yourself.