How Many Days Does It Rain in London?

By Alice Nichols

London is perhaps best known for its rainy weather and it’s a common question to ask how many days it actually rains in London. In this article, we will take a closer look at the rainfall patterns in London and answer this question in detail.

London’s Rainy Reputation

London is famous for its rainy weather. It’s a reputation that has been built up over centuries of literature, poetry, and art.

But is it true? Does it really rain all the time in London?

The Facts About Rainfall in London

The truth is, London does get a fair amount of rain, but it’s not as bad as some people might think. According to the Met Office, the UK’s national weather service, London gets an average of 23 inches (583mm) of rain per year. This puts it firmly in the middle of the table when it comes to rainfall compared with other European cities.

How Many Days Does It Rain in London?

So, how many days does it actually rain in London? On average, there are 156 rainy days per year in London. This means that roughly 43% of the year is wet.

  • Winter: The winter months (December to February) tend to be the wettest with an average of 13 rainy days per month.
  • Spring: Spring (March to May) sees a decrease in rainfall with an average of 9 rainy days per month.
  • Summer: Summer (June to August) is usually drier with an average of 7 rainy days per month.
  • Fall: Autumn (September to November) sees an increase again with an average of 11 rainy days per month.

The Importance of Rain in London

While too much rain can be a nuisance, it’s also important to remember that rain is essential for life. It helps to keep the city’s green spaces lush and vibrant, and it fills up the reservoirs that provide water for millions of people in and around London.

Conclusion

In conclusion, London does get its fair share of rain, but it’s not as bad as its reputation might suggest. On average, there are 156 rainy days per year in London which is roughly 43% of the year. So while you might want to pack an umbrella if you’re visiting the city, don’t let the rain put you off – there’s still plenty to see and do in London whatever the weather.