London Weather in Autumn / Fall
September - November
London weather in autumn (fall) ushers in a palette of rich colours across the city’s parks and streets, marked by cooler temperatures and a cosy atmosphere. This season is ideal for leisurely walks through leaf-strewn paths and experiencing the city’s vibrant cultural events as it transitions into winter. From sipping hot beverages at quaint pubs to exploring art exhibitions in galleries, there’s a sense of warmth and nostalgia in the air. As the days grow shorter, London’s iconic landmarks take on a golden hue, creating a picturesque backdrop for memorable autumnal moments.
Average Weather Conditions in Autumn
- Temperature: Ranges from 13°C to 19°C (55°F to 66°F) in early autumn, cooling down towards November.
- Rainfall: Moderate to high, with October often being the wettest month.
- Daylight: Days start to get shorter as the season progresses.
Autumn Weather Averages (Sep-Nov)
| Day Temp. | Night Temp. | Rainfall | Wind Speed | Humidity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 13-19°C (55-66°F) | 8-11°C (46-52°F) | 55-60mm | 13-18km/h (8-11mph) | 65% – 80% |
Weather in Autumn Months
September
September maintains some of the warmth of summer, making it a pleasant time to explore the city.
October
October sees the arrival of true autumnal weather, with cooler temperatures and the changing colours of leaves in parks.
November
November brings cooler and shorter days, with an increased chance of rain, preparing the city for the winter ahead.
What to See and Do in Fall / Autumn
- Parks and Gardens: Experience the stunning autumn foliage in London’s parks, such as Richmond Park and Hampstead Heath.
- Cultural Events: Autumn is the season for London’s film and fashion festivals, as well as numerous art exhibitions.
- Halloween Celebrations: Enjoy the Halloween festivities that take place across the city, including themed events and ghost tours.
Monthly Autumn / Fall Events in London (Sep-Nov)
Check out what you can see each month in London to fully experience its vibrant cultural scene.
Autumn in London brings a stunning display of colourful foliage, crisp air, and a cosy atmosphere. The city’s parks and streets are adorned with vibrant hues of red, orange, and gold, creating a picturesque backdrop for your exploration.
A hop on hop off London bus tour is a fantastic way to experience London in autumn. As you ride, you can enjoy the fresh, crisp air and breathtaking views from the top deck, taking in iconic landmarks such as the regal Buckingham Palace, the historic Tower of London with its Crown Jewels and ravens, the impressive Tower Bridge spanning the River Thames, the architectural marvel of St. Paul’s Cathedral with its majestic dome, the iconic Big Ben clock tower and the Houses of Parliament, and the spectacular London Eye observation wheel.
If the weather turns cooler or rainy, you can simply move downstairs to the covered section to stay comfortable while continuing to enjoy the sights. The flexibility of these tours allows you to hop off at any stop to explore autumnal attractions or enjoy a warm drink, then hop back on to continue your journey around the city. These bus tours offer a cosy and convenient way to discover London’s charm during the autumn months.
Tips and Advice for Visiting London in Autumn / Fall
Packing Tips for Autumn
- Warm Layers: As the temperature cools, warm layers are essential, including sweaters and a waterproof coat.
- Comfortable Footwear: With rain more common, waterproof shoes or boots are advisable.
- Accessories: Consider packing a scarf, gloves, and a warm hat, especially for November.
Special Tips
- Indoor Attractions: With cooler and rainier weather, explore London’s array of museums, galleries, and indoor markets.
- Off-Peak Travel: Autumn can be a quieter time to visit London, offering the opportunity to explore the city without the summer crowds.
Autumn Food and Drink Recommendations in London
- Cosy Up with Seasonal Delights: Autumn in London is perfect for warming up with traditional British comfort foods. Savour a hearty pie at a classic pub, or indulge in a pumpkin spice latte from one of the many coffee shops. Borough Market is a great spot to sample artisanal cheeses and fresh pastries, ideal for the cooler weather.
Best Places for Autumn Photography
- Capturing London’s Autumn Colours: The city’s parks, like Richmond Park and Hampstead Heath, offer stunning autumnal scenes with golden leaves and deer. The historic streets of Greenwich and the South Bank of the Thames also provide picturesque settings for capturing the essence of London in autumn.
Theatre and Performance Scene in Autumn
- London’s Stage Comes Alive: Autumn is a fantastic time to experience London’s renowned theatre scene. Catch classic and new productions at the West End, featuring famous musicals like ‘The Phantom of the Opera’, ‘Les Misérables’, and ‘Hamilton’. Enjoy innovative performances at the Royal Court Theatre, or immerse yourself in the world of Shakespeare at the Globe Theatre. This season brings a diverse array of theatrical experiences, from time-honoured classics to cutting-edge contemporary plays.
Guided Tours in Autumn
- Discovering London’s Hidden Gems: Explore London’s history with guided walking tours around the City of London or Jack the Ripper tours in the East End. Art enthusiasts can enjoy guided tours of the Tate Modern and the National Gallery, offering a deep dive into art history.
Shopping in Autumn
- Autumn Shopping Experiences: As London transitions into autumn, its shopping districts, such as Oxford Street and Covent Garden, become adorned with vibrant new displays. Venture to Camden Town for a blend of eclectic market stalls and unique boutiques, perfect for discovering one-of-a-kind items. Experience luxury shopping at world-renowned stores like Harrods, or explore the vintage finds at Portobello Road Market. For designer deals, Bicester Village is an essential destination with high-end brands at discounted prices. Mayfair’s exclusive boutiques offer a more upscale shopping experience, making autumn in London a shopper’s delight in every corner of the city.
Autumn Festivals and Celebrations
- Embrace the Season’s Festivities: Autumn is filled with festivals like the London Jazz Festival and the BFI London Film Festival. Bonfire Night, also known as Guy Fawkes Night, in early November is marked with fireworks and public celebrations, a uniquely British experience.
Safety and Comfort Tips for Rainy Days
- Staying Dry and Enjoyable: Invest in a sturdy umbrella and waterproof boots for London’s rainy days. On wet days, consider visiting indoor attractions like the British Museum or enjoying a leisurely afternoon in one of London’s historic pubs.
Local Insights: Autumn in London
- Enjoy Autumn Like a Londoner: Locals love autumn for leisurely walks in Kew Gardens or along the canals in Little Venice. Enjoying a Sunday roast in a cosy pub is a quintessential London experience in autumn. Keep an eye out for local events like apple day celebrations in community gardens.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about London Weather in Autumn / Fall
Is autumn a rainy season in London?
Autumn in London is known for moderate to high rainfall, with October often being the wettest month. It’s a good idea to have an umbrella or raincoat handy.
What are the daylight hours like in London during autumn?
Daylight hours decrease as autumn progresses, with earlier sunsets, especially in November.
Are there any autumn festivals or events in London worth attending?
Autumn in London is rich in cultural events, including the London Film Festival, London Fashion Week, and various art exhibitions.
How should I dress for London’s autumn weather?
Dressing in layers is ideal, as the weather can vary. Warm clothing, including sweaters and a waterproof jacket, is recommended.
Is it a good time for outdoor activities in London during autumn?
Yes, early autumn, particularly September, can be a great time for outdoor activities like walking in parks to enjoy the autumn foliage.
Additional Resources
For comprehensive insights into London’s weather, explore the following sections:
Seasonal Weather Guides for London:
- London Weather Guide
- Spring in London: March, April, May
- Summer in London: June, July, August
- Autumn / Fall in London: September, October, November
- Winter in London: December, January, February
Navigating London’s ever-changing weather and making the most of your visit requires access to the right resources. Here are some valuable tools and links to enhance your travel experience:
Weather Forecast and Updates
- Met Office: www.metoffice.gov.uk – The UK’s national weather service offers detailed forecasts and weather warnings.
- BBC Weather: www.bbc.co.uk/weather – Provides reliable weather forecasts and updates for London and surrounding areas.
- Weather.com: www.weather.com – For comprehensive weather forecasts including hourly and 10-day predictions.
- AccuWeather: www.accuweather.com – Offers local and long-range weather forecasts with real-time updates.
London Events, Attractions, and Activities
- Time Out London: www.timeout.com/london – Discover the latest events, activities, and attractions in London, suitable for every season.
- Visit London: www.visitlondon.com – The official visitor guide for upcoming events, exhibitions, and seasonal activities in London.
- The Travel Wiki: thetravel.wiki – Explore our blog for detailed guides on tours and attractions in London. Find information on daily tours to places like Bath, Windsor, Stonehenge, and the Harry Potter locations in London and the rest of the UK, as well as tours within or from London and various travel passes.
London’s weather is famously unpredictable, but that’s part of the city’s charm. Exploring London from a hop-on hop-off bus tour is a fantastic way to see the city, regardless of the weather.
These tours let you visit iconic landmarks like the London Eye, Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament at your own pace.
No matter the season — whether it’s sunny, rainy, or somewhere in between — you can enjoy the open-top deck on warm days or move downstairs to the covered section if the weather turns.
From blooming spring to sunny summer, vibrant autumn, and festive winter, a hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus tour offers a comfortable and flexible way to experience London’s beauty throughout the year.
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