How Long Is the Shortest Day in London?

By Anna Duncan

Have you ever wondered how short the shortest day can be in London? The answer may surprise you!

During the winter solstice, which usually falls on December 21st or 22nd, London experiences its shortest day of the year. But just how short is it?

The Shortest Day in London

On the winter solstice, London experiences only about 7 hours and 49 minutes of daylight. This means that the sun rises around 8:04 am and sets around 3:53 pm. That’s almost 16 hours of darkness!

But why does this happen? The winter solstice occurs when the Earth’s axial tilt is farthest away from the sun, causing less sunlight to reach the northern hemisphere where London is located.

The Science Behind It

The axial tilt of the Earth is approximately 23.5 degrees, which means that during the summer solstice (usually June 20th or 21st), the northern hemisphere is tilted towards the sun, resulting in longer days and shorter nights. Conversely, during the winter solstice, the northern hemisphere is tilted away from the sun, leading to shorter days and longer nights.

How to Make The Most Of The Shortest Day:

While some might dread a day with so little sunlight, there are plenty of ways to make it enjoyable! Here are a few ideas:

  • Take a walk in one of London’s many parks and enjoy seeing them under different lighting.
  • Visit one of London’s many museums or galleries for an indoor cultural experience.
  • Sip on a hot drink at your favorite cafe while reading a book or catching up with friends.
  • Attend one of London’s many winter festivals featuring lights displays and holiday cheer.

In Conclusion

The shortest day in London may be short on daylight, but it doesn’t have to be short on fun! With plenty of indoor and outdoor activities to enjoy, it’s the perfect time to embrace the darkness and make the most of your time in this vibrant city.