Confession: I learned what to wear in London in March the hard way. In London in March, April and May, you need to wear warm clothes, such as a winter coat, long sleeves and slacks.
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The weather channel predicted 50-and-60-degree weather (Fahrenheit), so, as someone who was coming from the tundra that is Wisconsin, I was expecting warm spring sunshine. I was expecting T-shirt and jeans weather.
In hindsight, that was wishful thinking. London’s notorious winter winds quickly turned the temperature to freezing conditions — perfect for a few snow flurries here and there. We resorted to souvenir-store scarves, gloves and hoodies to try to keep as warm as possible.
Regardless, London was still wonderful in March. There is so much to do and see, and as long as you pack for London’s spring the correct way, you’ll be able to enjoy all of the famous sightseeing without the chills.
Here’s exactly what to wear in London in March, April and May.
How Do People Dress In London In Spring?
People dress in warm layers in London in spring.
London is still very cold during the spring months, so it is not uncommon to see locals wearing puffy, full-length winter coats, hats, mittens and scarves.
In March and April, people are definitely still wearing long pants and long-sleeved shirts. Whereas, toward the end of spring in May, you may see Londoners begin to wear T-shirts or dresses.
What Should I Pack For London In March?
Here’s what you should pack for London in March (or any of the spring months, for that matter).
1. Coat
I completely understand why you wouldn’t want to bring a warm coat. You don’t want to look like a cold tourist. It takes up way too much suitcase space. You don’t think you’ll need it because it’s supposed to be 50 degrees.
But, please trust me on this one. You need a coat.
All of the locals will be wearing full length winter coats, so you definitely won’t stick out. I was the warmest of my group with this long, calf-length wool coat.
2. Scarf
Similarly, you’re going to want a warm scarf while in London in March.
If you forget to pack one, I found this ridiculously soft cashmere scarf from a local London souvenir store for only 15 pounds. While it was probably a cheaply made cashmere scarf, the same style scarf would have sold for 70 pounds in a cashmere store.
You may be able to get away without a scarf (or hat or gloves) in the later spring months, but, as for March, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Yes, that’s right, 70 pounds. You definitely don’t want to be wasting your souvenir budget on emergency overpriced scarves. Learn all of the tips you need for souvenir spending here: How To Save On Souvenirs.
3. Gloves Or Mittens
When you’re trying to stay warm, gloves make a huge the difference.
This is particularly true when you’re trying to snap a travel photo, exposing your hands from your pockets to the elements. The next time I’m deciding what to wear in London in March, I’ll definitely be bringing these touch-screen photography gloves.
4. Sweaters
Additionally, what you wear under your winter clothes should work to keep you warm, too.
My best tip for London in March:Â pack layers.
Sweaters and turtlenecks (my favorites are from Gap, Zara, Amazon or thrifted from Goodwill) will not only keep you warm, but they will also fit in with local Londoner style.
I personally loved pairing this gray sweater vest with this basic cream turtleneck while in London.
5. Long-Sleeved Shirts And Blouses
Toward the end of March, you might be able to get by with lightweight long-sleeve shirts and blouses.
A basic white button-up will always appeal to London aesthetic.
Another option would be this square-neck blouse that will put a little more spring into your style.
6. Long Pants
As for bottoms, bring long pants. Or, should I say, “trousers”?
I love that these tan trousers and will go with any outfit, which saves a ton of suitcase space.
Likewise, I’ve been living in these wide-leg jeans from Forever 21 lately, so, naturally, I had to bring them with me across the pond.
7. Comfortable Walking Shoes
Furthermore, comfortable walking shoes are vital in London, as it is likely that you will be walking upwards of 10 miles per day. My go-to cute walking shoes for London in March are:
One, these white Nike Air Max tennis shoes that still look cute with every outfit. Thank goodness for the street wear trend. Now you can wear any comfortable tennis shoe and get away with it in style.
Two, chunky black boots or Dr. Marten’s (these black Docs are my favorite at the moment) that have been broken in.
8. Socks
If you opt for tennis shoes or boots (good choice), you’ll definitely need to bring socks.
Even if you’re planning on wearing sandals for the duration of your spring vacation, I suggest bringing a few pairs of socks anyway. European hotels and homes traditionally have slate or tile flooring, which can be cold on your bare feet.
9. Sunglasses
Next, despite the gray rain clouds that frequent the English sky, it’s advisable to bring sunglasses with to keep your eyes protected.
I swear by Zenni Optical prescription sunglasses. Zenni sunglasses are always trendy and even more affordable. (I’m talking under $10 for my favorite frames with a prescription.) I’m a loyal repeat customer.
10. Light Backpack Or Fanny Pack
Lastly, because you’ll likely be out of your hotel room for the majority of everyday, packing a lightweight backpack will allow you to pack everything you’ll need while out and about (sunglasses, camera, phone, portable charger, gloves, scarf, snacks, etc.).
This midsize Fjallraven Kanken backpack (my personal favorite) is perfect for the job. It folds nicely, packs easily, is super lightweight, looks great in photos and comes in a variety of colors.
Alternatively, you could also opt for a fashionable fanny pack. This fashionable Tommy Hilfiger fanny pack holds everything you’ll need, yet it’s still easy to pack in a suitcase or wear through the airport.
What does London look like in March?
In March, London looks chilly, rainy, mostly cloudy and foggy in the mornings.
Is March cold in the UK?
Yes, March is cold in the UK. According to the National Centers for Environmental Information, the average UK March temperatures hover around a high of 50 degrees Fahrenheit (10 degrees Celsius) and a low of 37 degrees Fahrenheit (3 degrees Celsius).
As previously mentioned, you will see every local still bundled up in winter coats and mittens. Although the predicted temperatures may seem warm, the UK has a constant windchill that makes the weather feel much colder than it is.
Is it rainy in London in March?
Yes, it is rainy in London in March. According to Weather Spark, it rains 1.2 inches per day in London in March on average.
You can pretty much count on every month being rainy in the UK and Ireland. Sun comes as a pleasant surprise in this corner of the world.
Although, it’s not totally necessary to pack a raincoat and rainboots in your suitcase if they don’t fit. Instead, bring a compact umbrella and shoes you don’t mind getting wet.
How do people dress in England in March?
Overall, you can expect people to dress for cold weather in England in March. Most people wear puffy or wool winter coats, long pants, sweaters and close-toed shoes.
You definitely won’t look a cold tourist if you bundle up in England in March.
What To Wear In London In April And May
In London in April and May, wear relatively warm layers, such as long-sleeves, long pants, and a coat or lightweight jacket. Odds are that you will end up feeling cold rather than warm, so plan accordingly and pack layers.
Toward the end of April and beginning of May, London’s weather will finally begin to warm up. However, remember that it’s a lot easier to delayer and cool off than it is to try to stay warm without the proper clothing.
What Clothes To Wear In London In April
When it comes to knowing what clothes to wear in London in April, remember that London’s April weather is very similar to London’s March weather: cold and usually rainy.
So, again, you should plan to wear long pants, sweaters, a hat, a coat and maybe even a scarf in London in April. While it might be warm enough to introduce your T-shirts and dresses into your wardrobe toward the end of April, check the weather before you venture out with bare legs.
How do people dress in England in April?
Likewise, you will also typically find that people dress in the same way in England in April — bundled up in long pants, sweaters, hats, scarves and winter coats.
Of course, if the temperatures are unusually warm one year (think 70+ degrees Fahrenheit), Londoners will be more apt to break out their T-shirts and dresses.
What To Wear In London In May
If you haven’t learned the main lesson already, the key to packing for London is to error on the side of cold weather.
While the predicted temperature may be 65 degrees Fahrenheit (18 degrees Celsius), London’s notorious rain and wind can make that temperature feel pretty chilly.
Your nice spring blouses and dresses are definitely safer to pack in May than in March; however, you should still bring a coat, or light jacket at least, just in case.
Hopefully this guide on what to wear in London in spring gave you the clarity that I didn’t have prior to my trip. Moral of the story: dress warm!
Have any questions about what to wear in London in March, April or May? Comment down below or message me on Instagram. I personally respond to every question.
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Hi, your blog is insightful. I wanted to ask if you recommend warm dark or light colors . I have a tendency to wear black during the cold season.
Either will fit right in! Honestly, I tend to wear dark colors year-round. Wear whatever you will feel most comfortable in for the forecasted temperatures of your trip. 🙂