The best time to visit England: few crowds, great deals, and blissed-out weather

Whether you enjoy admiring historical sites in the countryside or walking the busy streets of big cities, England is a vacation hotspot with plenty to do. If you’re wondering which season is the best time to visit England, that depends on what you want to experience.

More of an adventurous traveler? Visiting England in spring (towards the end of May, specifically) is perfect for soaking in new and exciting experiences. Summer is the best time to visit England for honeymooners as the weather is great for romantic getaways in the countryside, however, bear in mind that it’s also the peak tourist season. Winter in England can also get very busy, especially during the festive season. Holidays like Christmas and New Year’s draw many tourists every year. Spring and fall typically attract fewer tourists, so if you want to have a more chilled-out vacation, March to May or September to November are the best times to visit England.

Temperatures in England normally hit a high of 64℉ in the summer, but there are occasional heat waves when the temperature can be as high as 86℉. The weather in England can be unpredictable so be sure to have an umbrella or raincoat and a light sweater with you. Nevertheless, summer is typically a great time to spend outdoors and bask in the sunshine. Enjoy a day out at Brighton Beach or have a drink at a beer garden in Bridgnorth. There are also many events and activities in the summer which draw travelers from all over the world.

England’s peak tourist season is in the summertime. Famous streets in metropolitan cities like London can get especially crowded (here are the best things you can do in London in summer), so if you prefer jostling with fewer tourists, opt to travel during the shoulder or low season.

Airfare and hotel rates increase during peak season, so be prepared to pay more. Want to avoid the large crowds in summer? The cities aren’t the only charming places in England. If it’s a honeymoon spot you’re after, take a trip to the countryside for a cozy and romantic getaway.

For younger travelers, Glastonbury Festival in June should be on your to-do list. This renowned festival boasts an incredible line-up of international and local artists. It’s worth checking out with a group of friends or a partner. Another summer highlight is Wimbledon. The oldest tennis tournament in the world takes place in London and attracts many local and international fans. Can’t get tickets? Explore the history of Wimbledon and other major London sights on this tour instead.

The shoulder season in England is great for enjoying the perks of summer weather while sticking to a budget, with temperatures reaching a high of 64°F in spring and 60 °F in the fall. Visiting England during shoulder season means you encounter fewer crowds at popular places like London (here's our guide to the best things to do in London during spring) or Brighton, which would be swamped with tourists during peak season. It’s also easier to find affordable accommodation. While there are generally fewer crowds compared to peak season, bank holidays can draw more crowds than usual since there are many events over the long weekends.

Take advantage of the fewer crowds by joining a walking tour in London. Are you more of a solo traveler? Then this hop-on, hop-off tour is for you. You can tick off all the cultural landmarks in London and explore the city at your own pace.

March signals the start of spring in England. If you’re a rugby fan, you’ll have heard of the Six Nations Championship, held in England every year. It’s a great sporting event attracting tourists and locals alike.

Keen to experience the luck of the Irish? St Patrick's Day in March is celebrated in a big way—have some fun in London at Trafalgar Square.

Visiting England during spring is a must for music lovers. Discover new musicians at festivals like The Great Escape in Brighton, which gives emerging artists a platform to showcase their work. Are you a fan of indie and pop music? Then Dot to Dot Festival may be your cup of tea.

There are still remnants of fall colors in early November but the temperature is more like winter, dropping to an average of 39°F. The coldest months in England are January and February when temperatures can be freezing.

Winter in England is between November and February. While the weather can be dull and dreary, your days can be full of excitement and warmth thanks to the many celebrations during the festive season. Apart from the epic Guy Fawkes night celebrated on November 5, England is the perfect place to experience a white Christmas. It’s hard to ignore the festive spirit when major landmarks, streets, and storefronts are decked in impressive Christmas decorations and twinkly lights. Apart from the Christmas markets and festivities happening throughout the country, there are also Christmas concerts held in local churches.

Are you a shopaholic? Many stores have sales to mark the festive season, making it the perfect time to shop. Head to the Christmas market in Albert Square in Manchester if you’d like a taste of some classic English festivities. Christmas in London is especially festive. Hyde Park's Winter Wonderland is a fairground with market stalls, rides, and family-friendly activities. New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day celebrations take place in most cities and towns across England, but it’s worth checking out the festivities in London, which would typically include impressive fireworks shows on the River Thames, music, and more.

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