London in October Weather: Good Time for a Visit or Not?

Taking a visit to London in October is highly recommended!

After all, the average weather in London England in October can never be guaranteed, so don’t be put off because it’s the fall season.

Instead, go and enjoy the fact that the crowds will be significantly reduced at the major attractions.

You’ll have more space to explore the city, and can organise a mix of indoor and outdoor attractions in case the London weather in October turns bad.

Should You Visit? London In October Weather?

The month starts off nice – with temperatures around 18 degrees celsius (around mid 60s in Fahrenheit). That’s pleasant enough in the sun.

Towards the end of the month you will really notice a drop in temperature – the average weather in London in late October will see temps drop down to around 13 degrees (mid 50s Fahrenheit), so bring your coat!

Nighttime temperatures will usually be below 10 degrees celsius (mid-40s). Most of the month – more than 50% – will be cloudy. However, on the other half, you will likely see a bit of sun – at least partially.

But do expect rain. It will fall on at least 50% of days of the month.

Tip – Umbrellas, raincoats, and non-slip shoes will make sure your trip remains comfortable throughout.

What’s The Weather Like In London In October?

What Is the Temperature in London in October

Temperatures dip gradually throughout the month, starting off at the late September range around 20 degrees and finishing closer to 10-12 degrees celsius.

What Is the Typical Weather in London in Late October?

In late October the temperatures drop to around 13 degrees celsius. Rain falls around a week in this part of the month.

What Is the Weather like in London in Early October?

With pleasant temperatures likely to be at least 18 degrees celsius, October starts off nice in London.

How cold is London in October?

Nighttime temperatures towards the end of October will be the coldest part – dropping to around 7 degrees celsius.

What to Wear in London in October

Now you understand the weather conditions, let’s look at what to wear in London in October:

• Layers: There is nothing worse than being in a museum or cafe where it is boiling hot and you can’t remove your thick jumper! Layers are key here. You’ll need enough to be toasty warm outside, but comfortable inside.

• Comfortable walking shoes: The sights to be explored in London take up a lot of space! Even walking within some of the underground stations can take forever. Wear comfortable shoes! Ladies – stick your heels in your bag for nights out.

• Winter Woolies: Wear a coat, hat and gloves when out and about towards the end of October to stay warm!

• Boots & coats: The fashions change along with the leaves. Gone are floaty summer dresses and tshirts. Instead, cool winter boots and coats are all the rage.

Best Things to Do in London in October

The summer vibe is gone and it’s time to enjoy autumn in London! October is a fantastic month to explore London, with cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.

The city offers a mix of indoor and outdoor activities perfect for the autumn season. From historical landmarks to cultural experiences, there are plenty of things to do in London in the month of October.

Enjoy the vibrant autumn foliage in parks, attend seasonal events, and take advantage of the milder weather to explore the city’s iconic attractions.

Visit Tower of London

Visiting the Tower of London in October offers a unique blend of history and autumn charm. The cooler weather makes exploring the ancient fortress more comfortable, allowing visitors to fully appreciate its rich history and architecture.

Highlights include the Crown Jewels, the medieval White Tower, and the famous Yeoman Warder tours. The slightly reduced crowds in October make for a more relaxed experience.

To avoid long lines and secure your preferred visiting time, book your Tower of London tickets online in advance, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable visit.

Tower Bridge

Tower Bridge in October offers a fascinating glimpse into one of London’s most iconic structures. The mild autumn weather is perfect for exploring the high-level walkways with their glass floors, providing stunning views of the River Thames and the city.

The Tower Bridge Exhibition details the history and engineering marvels of the bridge, making it both educational and enjoyable. The reduced tourist crowds in October allow for a more leisurely visit.

To ensure a hassle-free experience, book your Tower Bridge tickets online in advance, saving both time and money.

London Eye

The London Eye in October provides a spectacular view of the city’s autumn landscape. The cooler temperatures and clear skies enhance the experience, making it perfect for capturing breathtaking photos.

As you rise above the city, you can see iconic landmarks and the vibrant fall foliage along the Thames. The reduced crowds during this time of year mean shorter wait times and a more relaxed experience.

For the best experience, book your London Eye tickets online in advance to avoid queues and secure your preferred time slot.

Buckingham Palace

Visiting Buckingham Palace in October is a must for any London trip. Although the State Rooms may be closed, you can still witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony, a quintessential British experience.

The palace gardens are particularly beautiful in autumn, offering a picturesque setting for a leisurely stroll. The cooler temperatures make the visit more comfortable, and the slightly reduced crowds enhance the experience.

To ensure a smooth visit and secure your spot, check this official Buckingham Palace partner website for ticket availability and more information.

Autumn Walks

Enjoying an autumn walk in London in October is a delightful experience as the leaves change color.

Hyde Park, Hampton Court Palace, and Hampstead Heath are great spots for witnessing the vibrant fall foliage.

For a detailed guide, check out this great guide from UK newspaper The Telegraph for the full lowdown on the best places for autumn walks.

Concerts, Musicals & Plays

October is a great time to catch concerts, musicals, and plays in London.

The city’s venues host a variety of performances, from opera and live gigs to popular West End shows like The Lion King and Wicked.

You can find all the London musicals tickets on this page.

For the latest lineups and ticket availability, check online listings to secure your spot at these fantastic events.

Book Back up Rainy Day Attractions

In case of rain, having backup indoor attractions in London is a smart move.

Consider booking a London City Pass from Turbopass, which includes access to museums and indoor activities.

This ensures you have a variety of options to enjoy, regardless of the weather, and makes your visit more flexible and enjoyable.

Halloween in London

Halloween in London is a fun and spooky time to visit.

Many major attractions host special Halloween events, and a London Ghost Tour (like this one here) can add a thrilling twist to your trip.

Embrace the spooky season by exploring themed activities and enjoying the festive atmosphere in the city.

Free Things to Do in London in October

London offers numerous free activities in October, allowing you to explore without breaking the bank.

Visit outdoor markets like Borough Market, or explore cultural landmarks such as the Tate Modern, the National Gallery, the Imperial War Museum, and the Royal Air Force Museum. You can find here a list of 40+ free museums in London.

Pairing paid attractions with these free experiences creates a well-rounded and budget-friendly itinerary.

Fun Things For Kids to Do in London in October

There are so many activities to entertain kids in London during October, making it a great destination for families.

Visit The View From The Shard

Visiting The View From The Shard in October is a memorable experience for families. The 360-degree views of London from the tallest building in Western Europe are breathtaking, especially with the autumn colors.

Older kids will enjoy spotting landmarks and taking photos from the high observation deck. The cooler weather and fewer tourists make this an ideal time to visit.

Ensure a seamless experience by purchasing your tickets online in advance. This not only saves time but also secures your preferred visiting slot, allowing you to enjoy the spectacular views without the hassle.

Meet Stars at Madame Tussauds

Madame Tussauds in October is a fantastic destination for families. The world-famous wax museum features lifelike figures of celebrities, historical figures, and popular characters, providing endless photo opportunities and interactive experiences.

The cooler weather makes it a perfect indoor activity. Kids will love meeting their favorite stars and exploring the various themed zones.

To avoid long queues and ensure entry, it’s best to purchase tickets online in advance.

Explore Harry Potter Studios

Exploring Harry Potter Studios in October is a magical journey for fans of all ages. Walk through iconic sets like the Great Hall and Diagon Alley, see authentic costumes and props, and learn behind-the-scenes secrets of the film series.

The cooler weather adds to the cozy, magical atmosphere. This immersive experience offers interactive exhibits and countless photo opportunities.

The Harry Potter Studios often sell out several weeks ahead, so securing your tickets early on this page ensures you won’t miss out on this magical experience.

Shrek’s Adventure!

Shrek’s Adventure! in October is an enchanting experience for families. This interactive attraction brings the beloved Shrek movies to life with live shows, 4D rides, and character meet-and-greets.

The themed adventures and fun activities are perfect for keeping kids entertained. The cooler autumn weather makes it an ideal indoor outing.

To ensure a hassle-free visit, purchase your tickets online in advance. This not only saves time but also guarantees entry, allowing your family to fully enjoy the whimsical world of Shrek without the stress of long waits.

Free Things To Do in London with Kids

London offers numerous free activities for kids, making it a budget-friendly destination.

Explore historical and cultural landmarks like the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, the British Museum, and the Natural History Museum.

These attractions provide educational and entertaining experiences without any cost.

Outdoor options include visiting parks like Hyde Park, where kids can enjoy playgrounds and nature trails.

Personalized Souvenirs: Consider getting Custom Belt Buckles as unique souvenirs from your trip. They are not only practical but also serve as memorable keepsakes that kids can cherish and use for years.

Incorporating these free activities into your itinerary helps balance the cost of paid attractions, ensuring a fun and affordable family trip.

What Time Does the Sunset in London in October?

Sunset starts off the month at about 6.40 pm, extending closer to 5.40 pm towards the end of the month.

Then, the clocks go back one hour on the 31st, so it will get dark much earlier – around 4.40 pm.

If you are out and about around this time there are a couple of great places to check out – especially if you are on a romantic break:

• London By Night: This is a bus tour that takes you around the best lit up sights in London in the evening and as it gets dark. The tour lasts around 1.5 hours and includes a guide (multi language options available). Tickets start at £28.

• Royal Observatory: What better way to get in the nighttime move by checking out the Royal Observatory. Apart from learning about stargazing you can also stand on the marker of Greenwich Mean Time!

• Sunset View Points: You can pay to visit the London Eye or The Shard just in time for sunset. Or visit one of the free viewpoints in London such as Primrose Hill or Millennium Bridge.

Book Cheap Flights to London in October

Flight prices to London in October can get pricey towards the end of the month- especially during the school Halloween holidays.

To get the best price we recommend you book around 3 months in advance. In addition, use a comparison site to find the best deals – for cheap flights, I recommend this comparator.

It lets you play around with flight times and destinations. So – be flexible. Because London has such good transport links you really should not think twice about flying into London Stansted and out of London Luton for example.

Where to Spend the Night? Our 4 Top Picks To Stay in London

Let’s check out three great central London hotels in which to stay in London in October.

We’ve personally stayed in these three hotels in London – and enjoyed every one. Why would you need a tripadvisor review when you’ve got us!

Hilton London Bankside

This is a very stylish Hilton located right in the heart of central London.

We actually booked this one for the gorgeous pool. This one is great for families who need to give the kids something to do on the property. The Shard is about 10 minutes walk away. Enjoy a cool double room from only £230.

Sea Containers London

With stunning views over the Thames, a room in the Sea Containers hotel is coupled with boutique amenities, an excellent bar and fabulous breakfast.

The standard rooms aren’t huge, but the common spaces more than make up for it. Upgrade to a suite or balcony room if you can – they are fabulous. You can get a standard double for around £250.

Park Plaza Westminster

Centrally located right off Westminster Bridge, the Park Plaza offers access to an executive lounge, great rooms and a fabulous swimming pool!

Rooms start at a basic £230 – they’re more if you want access to the lounge – and are spacious. Our favourite thing here was the pool – a perfect place to dip your toes after a long day.

Best Budget Traveller Hotel Option in London

If you’d rather spend your cash on sightseeing and food don’t worry.

Whilst London can be an expensive place, there are plenty of budget traveller options around. The EasyHotels chain offer rooms in their hotels in Paddington and Shoreditch for just £65.

Frequently Asked Questions about London in October (Includes FAQs about London Weather in October)

Conclusion

London weather in October is warm enough to walk around. It’s a great time of year to visit, especially if you can avoid the school holidays.

Let us know which sights you enjoyed the most during your visit. To plan in more detail, we’d recommend you look into a city pass that can cover things like transport and major attractions.