When is the Best Time to Visit the UK?

Sophie S
The UK enjoys an influx of tourists from around the world year round, but especially during the height of tourist season, which is from around May through the British summer holidays, which commence at the end of July and last for 6 weeks. If you plan on visiting the UK, when is the best time to travel to the UK?

Look for Cheap Flights During October to February

The low travel season to the UK is from October to February (excluding Christmas and New year, which is high season) which means there are many bargain flights up for grabs during these months, as airlines compete to fill vacant seats. It is generally a lot cooler during these times of the year, but if you do not mind bracing the biting British winter weather, then you can still have a good time if you travel during the low tourist season.

Enjoy the British Springtime from March to June

British springtime, from March to June, is a great time to visit the UK. Flowers will be in bloom, notably daffodils, tulips and roses and the winter thaw will mean warmer temperatures. It is still chilly during the start of the season, so come well prepared if you decide to visit the UK in March or April.

Summer Months Are the Most Popular Time to Travel

The summer months are still the most popular time to travel to the UK, as children will be out of school, and travellers want to be able to enjoy the warmer weather. However, this is also the height of tourist season, so expect crowds in and around the major cities such as London, Edinburgh, Belfast and Cardiff, as you weave through the crowds to get to your destination or stand in long queues to enter popular tourist attractions.

The UK is a popular tourist destination, and is a convenient stepping stone to the Continent if you plan to visit France, Germany, Spain or if you plan to travel further afield. Low season is from October to February (excluding Christmas and New Year) when flights are generally much cheaper. British springtime is a good time to visit as the flowers will be in bloom and the weather will be warmer. The summer months are the most popular time to travel, but if you visit the UK during summer, you will have to contend with the crowds in and around the major cities and tourist attractions.

Published by Sophie S - Featured Contributor in Lifestyle

Sophie is a British expat who has been living abroad in the United States for the past 5 years. She writes on a diverse variety of subjects and is particularly interested in sharing her personal knowledge ab...   View profile

  • Look for cheap flights to the UK during October to February (excluding Christmas and New Year)
  • Visit the UK in spring, as the flowers will be in bloom and the weather will be warmer
  • The summer months are the most popular time to travel, but be prepared for the crowds

4 Comments

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  • Andrea Parker 7/26/2010

    Very useful information, thank you

  • Dina Quirion 7/23/2010

    nice.. :o)

  • Charlotte Kuchinsky 7/22/2010

    I wish! But my genie hasn't granted it yet.

  • Delicia Powers 7/22/2010

    Love the UK , super article:0)!!!

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