Summary of Visiting London in March
March is the start of spring in London, with mild days and some blue skies—ideal weather for outdoor activities, particularly as flowers begin to bloom. It is a great opportunity to participate in guided walking tours or visit Kew Gardens to witness the evolving floral landscape. Early visits to Hampton Court Palace and the gardens or taking a cruise on the River Thames are perfect activities. Early spring is considered shoulder season in London, meaning fewer crowds and more affordable hotel rates.
London Weather in March
Springtime in London brings pleasant conditions, with temperatures ranging from 50 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit. There is less winter rain and no summer humidity, making it much more comfortable to explore.
- Average high: 52 degrees Fahrenheit (11 degrees Celsius)
- Average low: 39 degrees Fahrenheit (4 degrees Celsius)
March experiences about 10 days of precipitation; however, the rain often consists of light drizzles rather than heavy downpours. There are typically only four hours of afternoon sunlight, so expect some overcast skies.
What to Pack
Given the occasional rain in March, it’s wise to pack layers, a waterproof jacket, and an umbrella—essential for exploring London! While temperatures may not be warm, it’s advisable to bring a coat, and you might also need gloves and a scarf on cooler days.
March Events in London
Plan ahead to experience some of the exciting activities and celebrations taking place in London throughout March.
- Mother’s Day: Celebrated in March in the U.K., this is a wonderful time for an afternoon tea, with special offers typically available.
- Easter: Occurring in either March or April, Easter marks the first bank holiday of the year. It’s common to exchange chocolate eggs and organize hunts for children, featuring small chocolate eggs or treats.
- St. Patrick’s Day: Celebrated on March 17, this holiday includes a fair in Trafalgar Square, a Central London parade, and festivities in local pubs.
- Shrove Tuesday/Pancake Day: This day, celebrated the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday, is marked by a tradition of enjoying pancakes and includes races where participants flip pancakes while running.
- Ideal Home Show: Since 1908, this exhibition showcases the latest trends in home decor, occurring over several weeks in March or April, attracting crafters and cooking enthusiasts.
- Head of the River Race: An annual rowing race on the Thames, generally held on the third or fourth Saturday in March, it draws both locals and visitors to the riverbank.
- The Boat Race: This renowned competition between Oxford and Cambridge Universities takes place after the Head of the River Race, often gathering over 250,000 spectators.
March Travel Tips
When planning your March trip to London, consider these tips:
- British Summer Time, akin to Daylight Savings Time in the U.S., begins on the last Sunday in March. Remember to set your clocks forward one hour at 1 a.m.
- On Easter Sunday, akin to Christmas Day, shops typically close, while museums and attractions often remain open.
- For Mother’s Day celebrations in London, ensure that you plan your events like special teas or dinners in advance, as reservations tend to fill up quickly.
- Expect hotel rates to rise around the famous boat races, due to a surge in visitors.
