Weather in London in January


 

Most European cities experience rather harsh weather in January. Not so for London; despite it being cool and wet in January, it still is a lot milder than most. This does make London ok to visit in January even with the cold.

The touch of snow in London in January is just enough to make the month still magical while the cold weather makes it a great time to visit- the crowds definitely thin out in this month and shorter queues to places are a guarantee. January is the official offseason in London hence you can bet on cheaper airfares and accommodation.

The average temperatures range between 8 degrees Celsius (45 degrees Fahrenheit), and 12 degrees Celsius (mid 50’s degrees Fahrenheit) in the afternoon

Image sourced from Pixabay

With this weather, an afternoon theatre production or ice skating is appealing. You can even attend a concert or listen to acapella groups’ performances. The weather also permits a laid back afternoon where you can enjoy watching a game of soccer or darts- the clear or partly sunny days in some days in January are just right for an afternoon outdoors.

The average rainfall is 9 – 12 days in the month, recorded at about 65mm.

Image sourced from Pixabay

About 18- 19 days in January will have precipitation. This however does not go above 1 millimeter for 21 out of the 31 days of the month, more than enough room to ‘go out and play’. Watch out for the snowfall in London in January on only about 2 days in the month, and experience the magical atmosphere it brings with it.

What to pack

Image sourced from Pixabay

With the cold weather in London in January, layering up is a great idea, with a winter coat on top of the layers on the much colder and windier days. Have your windproof umbrella in tow for the precipitation expected during the month, as well as a good pair of walking shoes that will take you through the wet days.

A look through your luggage should instantly reveal warm clothes.  This should include scarves and gloves as well as a hat. As you pack for this trip, keep in mind that oversized clothes in London will have you sticking out like a sore thumb, especially if your intention is to blend in! Remember, a good fit is key. Dressing in blacks and greys in January will help you further blend in- Londoners favor these colors in January.

For women

Image sourced from Pixabay

Trousers are ideal or a skirt or dress paired with thick tights. Long-sleeved tops with jumpers and sweatshirts together with a coat should do the trick.

For men

Image sourced from Pixabay

A casual jacket would be warm and functional for the going out nights on London. A jacket with a hood will also come in handy on a rainy day. Slim fit jeans and fitted sweaters will help you blend right in as opposed to baggy clothes. Items like vests will come in handy on your London trip as you keep warm.

Avoid

Sweatpants, UGG boots, flip flops, and clunky tennis shoes.

In January, there are a few major happenings you should take into account as you plan your trip

While there aren’t that many public holidays in London in January, you may catch some New Years’ festivities in London, such as the New Year’s Day Parade complete with music, acrobatics, music, and performances. The International Mime Festival also takes place in London in January. Take note however that public transport on New Years’ Day may be limited hence you will have to thoroughly choreograph your movements.

The weather in January in London also allows you to indulge in the last installment of Christmas activities such as ice skating and the famed Hogwarts in the Snow shows.

The weather in London in January signals the onset of winter. This is however no reason to miss out on London’s charm with its magnificent ancient buildings. January sales in London if you intend to shop will have you spoilt for choice. It might be a good idea to actually have shopping in your to-do list at this time in London; fewer crowds means more variety for you to choose from. The weather in London in January and the fact that it is the quietest time of year to visit make the city rather appealing.

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