London, the vibrant capital of England, is a popular tourist destination year-round, but visiting in January requires some planning to make the most of your trip. January is one of the coldest months in London, with average temperatures ranging from 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). The city experiences an average of 12 hours of daylight, with the sun rising at around 8 am and setting at around 4 pm. If you're planning to visit London in January, it's essential to pack warm clothing, including a heavy coat, gloves, scarf, and warm socks.
Despite the cold weather, January can be a great time to visit London, with fewer tourists and lower prices for accommodations and tourist attractions. You can enjoy the city's famous museums, galleries, and historical landmarks without the crowds, and take advantage of the various indoor activities and events that London has to offer. Some popular indoor attractions include the British Museum, the National Gallery, and the Natural History Museum, which are all free to visit and offer a wealth of information and entertainment.
Weather Conditions in January
London’s weather in January is typically cold and wet, with an average of 12 rainy days throughout the month. The average rainfall is around 62 mm (2.5 in), with the most significant amounts of rain falling in the second half of the month. It’s not uncommon to experience some snowfall in January, although it’s relatively rare, with an average of only 2-3 cm (0.8-1.2 in) of snowfall throughout the month. The cold temperatures and potential snowfall make it essential to pack warm and waterproof clothing, including a good pair of boots and a waterproof jacket.
Average Temperature and Sunshine Hours
The average temperature in London in January is around 4°C (39°F), with average high temperatures of 8°C (46°F) and average low temperatures of 2°C (36°F). The city experiences an average of 1 hour of sunshine per day, with the sunniest days usually occurring in the first half of the month. The cloudy and overcast skies can make the city feel colder than it actually is, so it’s essential to dress warmly and stay dry.
| Climate Factor | January Average |
|---|---|
| Temperature (high) | 8°C (46°F) |
| Temperature (low) | 2°C (36°F) |
| Rainfall | 62 mm (2.5 in) |
| Sunshine hours | 1 hour |
| Snowfall | 2-3 cm (0.8-1.2 in) |
Events and Festivals in January
Despite the cold weather, January is a great time to experience London’s vibrant cultural scene, with various events and festivals taking place throughout the month. Some popular events include the London Boat Show, which takes place at the ExCeL London exhibition center, and the Winter Lights festival, which features stunning light installations and performances in various locations across the city. You can also enjoy the Winter Sale at many of London’s top department stores, including Harrods and Selfridges, which offer significant discounts on a wide range of products.
New Year’s Day Parade
The New Year’s Day Parade is a popular event that takes place on January 1st, featuring colorful floats, marching bands, and performances from around the world. The parade starts at 12 pm and makes its way through the streets of central London, passing by many of the city’s famous landmarks, including Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. If you’re planning to attend the parade, make sure to arrive early to secure a good spot, and wrap up warm, as it can get very cold.
In addition to these events, January is also a great time to explore London's many museums and galleries, which offer a wide range of exhibitions and activities. The British Museum is home to a vast collection of artifacts from around the world, including the Rosetta Stone, the Elgin Marbles, and the mummies in the Ancient Egypt gallery. The National Gallery features a world-class collection of Western European art, including works by artists such as Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Vincent van Gogh.
Things to Do in January
There are plenty of things to do in London in January, both indoors and outdoors. Some popular activities include ice skating at one of the city’s many outdoor ice rinks, such as the ones at Somerset House or the Natural History Museum. You can also enjoy a winter walk in one of London’s many parks, such as Hyde Park or Regent’s Park, which offer beautiful scenery and a chance to get some fresh air and exercise. If you’re looking for something more adventurous, you can try indoor skydiving or indoor rock climbing at one of the city’s many indoor adventure centers.
Shopping in January
January is a great time to go shopping in London, with many stores offering significant discounts and sales. You can find everything from high-end fashion to affordable souvenirs, and the city’s many markets, such as Camden Market and Brick Lane Market, offer a wide range of unique and quirky items. Some popular shopping destinations include Oxford Street, which is home to many of the city’s top department stores, and Covent Garden, which offers a range of boutique shops and restaurants.
- Visit the British Museum to explore its vast collection of artifacts
- Take a winter walk in Hyde Park or Regent's Park
- Go ice skating at Somerset House or the Natural History Museum
- Explore the city's many markets, such as Camden Market and Brick Lane Market
- Enjoy the Winter Lights festival and its stunning light installations
What is the average temperature in London in January?
+The average temperature in London in January is around 4°C (39°F), with average high temperatures of 8°C (46°F) and average low temperatures of 2°C (36°F).
What are some popular events and festivals in London in January?
+Some popular events and festivals in London in January include the London Boat Show, the Winter Lights festival, and the New Year’s Day Parade.
What are some things to do in London in January?
+There are plenty of things to do in London in January, including ice skating, winter walks, indoor skydiving, and shopping. You can also visit the city’s many museums and galleries, which offer a wide range of exhibitions and activities.
