There’s something timeless about London – its royal pomp, West End buzz, centuries-old pubs, and that unmistakable British charm. But the question we’re often asked at Jenny’s Travel is: When is the best time to visit London?
Well, that depends on the type of trip you’re after! Whether you’re dreaming of cherry blossoms in Hyde Park or cosy Christmas lights on Oxford Street, there’s a perfect season for everyone.
Here’s our month-by-month breakdown, tailored for South African travellers.
Spring in London (March to May)
London shakes off its winter coat and blooms into colour. Expect tulips in full display at Regent’s Park, buzzing farmers’ markets, and lighter, longer days.
Why we love it:
- Fewer tourists than in summer
- Airfares are still relatively reasonable
- Beautiful weather for walking tours and park picnics
Top tip: Travel in April for a sweet spot of mild weather and value-for-money flights from South Africa.
Summer in London (June to August)
If you want full-on energy, this is it. London in summer is bursting at the seams – from rooftop bars and music festivals to lazy afternoons along the River Thames.
Be prepared for:
- Peak pricing (book flights and hotels early)
- Long daylight hours – perfect for squeezing in more sightseeing
- A vibrant vibe across the city
Jenny’s advice: July is the warmest, but June often has fewer crowds and still plenty to see and do. Wimbledon and Pride make it an exciting time to visit!
Autumn in London (September to October)
The city glows golden. The leaves crunch beneath your boots, the pubs start serving mulled cider, and the museums and galleries are less packed.
This season suits:
- Travellers wanting a slower pace
- Romantic getaways or culture-heavy breaks
- Foodies – Borough Market is a feast for the senses
Bonus: Prices start to dip again after the summer rush.
Festive Season & Winter (November to December)
If your ideal London trip involves ice-skating beneath fairy lights, browsing Christmas markets, and shopping on Oxford Street under twinkling decorations, this is your time.
What to expect:
- Cosy pubs and festive afternoon teas
- Magical events like Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park
- Chilly weather – but warm hearts and festive cheer
Jenny’s Travel Tip: Mid-November onwards sees the lights go up, and hotel rates are still manageable before the mid-December spike.
Low Season (January to February)
It’s cold, yes. But also calm, peaceful, and budget-friendly. For seasoned travellers or those chasing flight specials, this is a great time to explore the city like a local.
Perfect for:
- Theatre lovers (many West End shows have discounts)
- Shoppers – hello, January sales!
- Budget-conscious explorers
Important: Pack layers, a waterproof coat, and keep a cuppa close by.
So, When Should You Go?
Here’s a quick Jenny’s Travel cheat sheet:
You want… | Go in… |
|---|---|
Great weather & fewer crowds | April or October |
Peak excitement & long days | June or July |
Festive cheer & Christmas markets | Late November |
Budget travel & fewer tourists | January |
How Long to Stay?
We recommend at least 4–5 days in London to truly enjoy it. That gives you enough time for the big-hitters like Buckingham Palace, Tower Bridge, the British Museum, and a cheeky theatre night out. Want to add a day trip to Oxford, Bath, or even Paris by Eurostar? Make it a full week – trust us, you won’t regret it.
Planning Your London Adventure
Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned Anglophile, Jenny’s Travel is here to help plan your perfect London escape. From affordable packages to luxury stays, flights, rail passes, and theatre bookings – we’ve got your London trip sorted.
Subscribe to Jenny’s Travel’s newsletter to be the first to know about exclusive specials and stay updated with the latest news from Jenny’s Travel.