Sunrise over Seven Sisters chalk cliffs in East Sussex, England
The best time to visit England is typically spring and autumn as these seasons reflect the natural and cultural majesty that sweeps from the coastal cliffs to the northern lakes.
England feels both modern and historic, blending the beauty of preserved architecture with the practical streets of daily life, inspiring castles to enticing vineyards. With traditional pubs and remarkable museums, familiar foods, and surprising surf, England is an adventurer's haven during the best times to visit.
The following information provides a helpful guide to the best time to visit so you can enjoy the many sides of England and offers several essential experiences for you to enjoy the UK charms.
London's Tower Bridge in autumn
Best Months: May | June | July | August | September | October
The best time to visit England is between spring and fall, specifically from May to October. While rain is always a consideration, the weather between these months is best to discover the scenery and cultural sites. In May and early June, and in late September to October, you can also avoid the crowds that often fill the streets in London. From castles to villages, museum galleries to antique streets, when sightseeing in England from May to October, you can embrace the long history, famous sites and even find delightful surprises.
Sunrise at Mam Tor Hill in the Peak District, England
Best Months: June | July | August | September
Hiking in the summer can unveil the exceptional beauty of England’s natural scenery, especially between June and September. While larger crowds may take to the trails during the summer months, you have the best chances for consistently good weather to discover the country roads and coastal paths. By traveling over the lush hills, beyond the soaring cliffs, or into quiet villages, you can enjoy an immersive experience across the country.
Biking Tissington Trail in Derbyshire, England
Best Months: June | July | August | September
Cycling in England can take you around the contours of the coastline to the winding shores of glacial lakes with great weather in summer between June and September. The cycling routes and trails are busier in summer, but the more consistent temperatures make it much easier to enjoy the beauty of England’s gorgeous landscape and charming historic villages. Embrace the panoramas and tranquil country lanes or find an enticing route connecting the cultural corners of a bustling city as you embrace England’s beauty along the winding cycling trails.
Vineyards in Devon, England
Best Months: May | June | July | August
Views of green plains or sprawling vines, tastes of effervescent brut or dimensions of earthy and fruity flavors bring to life the wines of England when tasting from May to August. Summer not only helps you discover the fantastic tastes of English wine but also allows you to bask in the fantastic weather that can accentuate how you interact with every glass. Every sip in summer from May to August can provide you with a new and exciting characteristic of a wine, a winery, and English culture.
Farm to table meal at London restaurant
Best Months: April | May | June | September | October
Spring to fall is a great time to experience the food culture of England as the seasons change to reveal the flavorful local ingredients. With diverse terrain and specific recipes captured in regional dishes, you can find tradition and contemporary culinary evolution as you explore England’s food scene from April to October. With beautiful spring flowers, radiant summer grasses, and changing autumn colors, the culinary landscape often imitates the scenery as the seasonal dishes vary across the country.
Best Months: May | June | July | August | September | October
England strikes a perfect balance of history and popular culture, making summer and fall the ideal time for the family to enjoy a trip to the majestic and charming scenery and city streets. England is a fantastic family experience with access to magical corners and theatrical castles, treasured villages to modern theater. Whether wandering through a museum gallery for ancient artifacts or punting down a historic river in view of a classic university, England from May to October is the perfect family getaway.
Couple punting in Cambridge, England
Best Months: May | June | September | October | December
England is often overlooked as a destination for a couple's escape, but with overflowing charm and beauty and so much variety, it is worth consideration. Discover the rugged coastline, winding antique lanes, and charming historical villages, or settle into a more contemporary experience in London. The summer months bring a lushness to the landscape across the entire country that reveals the verdant hills, expansive plains, reflective glacial lakes, and antique cobbled lanes for an idyllic embrace of the past and present. Outside of summer and fall, December brings a soulful charm to the winter with Christmas Markets and festivities in which to indulge.
Gardens in Kent, England
Best Months: April | May | June
Spring and summer in England can immerse you in the splendor of the outdoors, especially from April to June. The weather warms up, and the crowds have not yet swarmed for the high season, and you can embrace the diverse activities and stunning scenery. Enjoy country walks and cycling or wine tasting and culinary explorations. Savor the iconic sites, or go off the beaten path in the glorious countryside.
Wine tasting | Food tour | Hiking | Cycling | Kayaking | Gardens | Boating | Surfing
Somerset House ice rink in Strand, London
Best Months: October | November | December
Fall and winter in England reveal the shifting seasons with more drama that can immerse you in the beauty of nature and cultural ambiance from October to December. With endless charm and transitioning foliage, you can experience the heritage of market towns and the jovial culture of traditional pubs or find local celebrations that bring the true spirit of the towns and villages across the country to life. There is an endless collection of things to do and ways to enjoy the splendor of England in fall and winter.
Pantomimes | Foliage viewing | Ice skating | Christmas markets
Kayaking on the River Thames with views of Big Ben and Parliament in London
The remarkable charm of England emerges from the cultural history and natural beauty found from the south to the north, and understanding what you want to experience amidst the exciting things to do will help you find the best time to visit for your trip. Whether embracing the northern glassy lakes or visiting quaint villages with blushing gardens, our England Travel Guide has more information for inspiring your trip. You can also speak with an England travel specialist for free by filling out a Trip Request or by calling our team at 1-888-265-9707.