How Cold Does It Feel in London?

By Alice Nichols

If you’re planning a trip to London, one of the most common questions you might have is, “How cold does it feel in London?” As with most things weather-related, the answer depends on a few factors.

Firstly, it’s important to note that London has a temperate maritime climate. This means that its weather is generally mild and wet. Winters are usually cold but not extreme, while summers are pleasant and warm but not too hot.

During the winter months (December-February), temperatures in London can range from 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). However, it’s worth noting that the wind chill factor can make it feel much colder than it actually is.

This is because London is quite a windy city, with gusts of up to 25mph not uncommon. The wind chill factor takes into account both the temperature and wind speed to give an idea of how cold it feels outside.

To put this into perspective, if the temperature outside is 5°C (41°F) but there’s a wind speed of 20mph, the wind chill factor would make it feel more like -1°C (30°F). This can be pretty chilly if you’re not dressed appropriately!

So how can you prepare for the cold weather in London? Firstly, make sure you pack warm clothing such as coats, gloves and scarves. It’s also worth investing in some good quality footwear that will keep your feet warm and dry if there’s rain or snow.

If you’re planning on spending a lot of time outdoors during your visit to London in winter, consider layering your clothing. This will help trap body heat close to your skin and keep you warmer overall.

Another factor to consider when thinking about how cold it feels in London is humidity. The UK as a whole tends to have relatively high humidity levels compared to other countries.

This means that even if the temperature isn’t particularly low, the air can feel colder and damper than you might expect. In addition, if it’s raining, the combination of cold and wet can be particularly uncomfortable.

In summary, London can get pretty cold during the winter months, with temperatures ranging from 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). However, the wind chill factor and humidity levels can make it feel much colder than this.

To prepare for the cold weather in London, make sure you pack warm clothing and footwear, consider layering your clothing, and be prepared for damp conditions if it’s raining. With the right preparation, you can still enjoy all that London has to offer even during its coldest months.