Weather & Clothing Guide for Different Seasons

The UK is often associated with rain, but this is because the weather can be unpredictable. The rain doesn’t come all in one season – it can come at any time of year, and on any day. You might experience beautiful sunshine, blustering winds and drizzling rain – all in one afternoon. But with the right clothes you can enjoy the UK weather.

Understanding UK Weather

  • The UK has four seasons: spring, summer, autumn and winter. Each season lasts around 3 months and has certain characteristics that we’ve listed below.
  • It’s worth noting, the weather can be very changeable. One day might be super sunny, but the next it doesn’t stop raining. Our biggest tip is to wear layers so you’re prepared for all options.
  • In general there is little difference between the regions of the UK, but you will experience more snow, rain and wind the further north you go and/or in mountainous areas.

SPRING – March, April & May

  • The days get longer (more daylight hours) and warmer. However over the past few years, winter has started to creep longer into March, so be prepared for cold weather.
  • The weather is mostly dry, but there can be big differences in temperature between day (warmer) and night (colder).
  • The best way to dress in Spring is with layers. T-shirts, jumpers and light jackets are your friends.

SUMMER – June, July & August

  • This is the seasons with the hottest temperatures. Rainfall varies a lot in the summer months and can be when the UK sees a lot of flooding, but not usually in this area of England.

AUTUMN – September, October & November

The temperatures start to get cooler, and the days get shorter (less daylight hours). However, over the last few years, September and early October have been warmer than previous years.

We’re back to wearing layers again! Make sure you always have a jacket with you.

WINTER – December, January & February

These are the coldest months of the year with the shortest days. Winter sees a mix of rain, wind, fog and snow. These are definitely the months where you can catch up on your big list of ‘things to watch.’

Make sure you bring or buy a good coat, hat and gloves. There’s nothing worse than numb fingers!

Temperatures in UK

Although UK weather is unpredictable, it is rarely extreme.

  • In summer, the average temperature ranges from 9–18 degrees Celsius (48–64 degrees Fahrenheit). On occasion, it can reach around 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit) in a heatwave.
  • In winter the average is between 2 and 7 degrees Celsius (36–45 degrees Fahrenheit), but temperatures often drop to just below 0 degrees Celsius (36 degrees Fahrenheit). Thankfully, most houses, buildings, trains and buses have good heating systems.

Daylight saving in UK

  • The longest daylight hours are on 21 June each year. On this day, the sun rises just before 05.00 (5am), and sets just after 21.00 (9pm).
  • The shortest daylight hours are on 21 December. On this day, the sun rises around 08.00 (8am) and sets around 16.00 (4pm).
  • Each year, on the last Sunday in March, the clocks go forward by one hour (at 01.00/1am), and they go back again on the last Sunday in October (at 02.00/2am). The period when the clocks are 1 hour ahead (meaning there is more daylight in the evenings) is called British Summer Time (BST).

Buying clothes in UK

Most UK towns and cities have a large range of shops selling clothes to suit all styles and budgets. As well as high-end luxury boutiques and high-street shops, there are plenty of second-hand and vintage shops. These are perfect for bargain-hunting and are often found in student areas. Many clothes shops offer student discounts with a valid National Union of Students (NUS) discount card or university ID card.

What to wear in the University?

You will see all kinds of fashion at UK schools, colleges and universities, and almost anything goes. Students usually dress casually during the day – jeans and t-shirts are fine – and more smartly to go out in the evening. Very few student bars and pubs have a dress code.some courses require you to wear specialist clothing for health and safety reasons. For example, if you are in a science laboratory, you are likely to need to wear protective glasses and a white lab coat.

For parties and nights out, people dress in many different styles, from casual jeans to glamorous outfits. If it’s a more formal evening event, such as a university ball, this might mean wearing a dress or suit and tie. You can avoid the expense of buying formal wear by hiring it from a local shop or outfitters.

The UK is a multicultural place and it is common for people to wear clothing associated with their culture and religion, for example a head scarf, kippah, turban, sari or long skirt. In major towns and cities you will find specialist shops selling clothing from around the world, particularly from Asia and the Middle East.

What to buy for different weather?

It’s imperative to have clothing that can be layered because the UK’s weather is renowned for being unpredictable. When you dress in layers, you can adapt to a range of temperatures while also being ready for daylong weather fluctuations.

Clothes

  • Get a couple of breathable, lightweight t-shirts for warmer days and base layers in the winter
  • Get a variety of sweaters or cardigans to wear alone or layered over your t-shirts when it turns cool outside.
  • Get waterproof jacket or coat  in the fall and winter, a wind, as it a multipurpose choice that can withstand both rain and cold temperatures.

Accessories

  • Need to carry a portable umbrella that is sturdy and can endure strong winds.
  • Need to carry a pair of waterproof boots or shoes to keep your feet dry and protected from puddles and downpours
  • Need to carry a lightweight, waterproof raincoat with a hood to stay dry during unexpected downpours
  • Need to wear comfortable walking shoes as you explore your new surroundings. Choose sneakers or trainers that provide strong support and are appropriate for daily wear.

What clothing do I need?

It’s important to wear what you feel comfortable in, but you’ll probably find that most students in the UK have these key items in their wardrobes:

  • Jeans. For many college and university students, a good, comfortable pair of jeans is like a uniform.
  • Jumpers (sweaters), cardigans or hoodies. A woolly cardigan and a big thick scarf are perfect for curling up in a corner of the library when you’re studying.
  • Clothes you don’t mind getting dirty. You might be taking part in a charity race, a baking competition, a muddy obstacle course or a game of paintball for a special occasion – and you’ll be grateful for that old tank top and tracksuit bottoms.
  • A smart shirt, blouse or dress, and smart shoes for evenings out – it’s common to wear jeans and trainers to pubs, bars and restaurants, but you might want to dress more elegantly once in a while. Once or twice a year, or more, your institution might hold a formal event – this usually means a suit and tie for men and a cocktail dress or gown for women. Don’t be afraid to ask if you’re not sure about the dress code.
  • Gloves, a scarf and a warm hat or earmuffs.
  • Trainers (sneakers), or any shoes comfortable enough for running to class if you’re late.
  • Waterproof shoes such as Wellington or hiking boots, for rainy and snowy days. Remember: rain can damage leather, so treat any leather boots, gloves and bags with a protective waterproof spray.

Winter Clothing

  • Winter coats:

    A winter coat is more than a winter essential. If you style it correctly, you get some excellent outfit combos too. For starters, your coats should be waterproof on the outside and fluffy on the inside. It’s also worth investing in one thick layer as well. It might seem obvious to you if you come from a cold country. But many might move from tropical climates to beautiful country. They might not be used to wearing coats during the winter season. Such visitors must ensure that they shop well and correctly for the weather they’re about to encounter. Keeping this in mind, you must know how warm and comfy your coats will be in UK winter weather.

  • Trousers:

    For your bottoms, too, you’ll need something waterproof. Thermal leggings and shell trousers are often recommended as layers. But it depends on your preference and style. If you’re planning a hike somewhere in the UK, you should pick fully waterproof trousers. Most shell trousers have zips or buttons to make them easier to wear. You can pair this with hiking boots.

  • Winter hats or beanies:

    Winter hats or beanies are another vital part of the winter wardrobe for a UK trip. The winter season in the UK will need some beanies on your head. You shouldn’t leave your head exposed in the winter. It’s one of the essential parts of your body. Also, when the wind strikes, it can get to your head and ears too. If you get affected, a few health concerns might come your way. But hats aren’t a wardrobe staple for the UK winter season unless it gets extreme. You’ll be able to manage without them as well. But if you’re from a warm country, it’s better to carry them along. You’re new to the weather. In such cases, stay as warm as possible while looking well-dressed. British weather often experiences windy and rainy days together. If you’re the only one wearing a hat among all the people on the streets, don’t panic. Treat it as a stand-out element for your outfit. So please don’t buy broad-brimmed and floppy headgear. Consider a tight-fitting beanie that won’t come off with strong winds. You could even consider a hat with ear flaps to ensure your ears stay cozy.

  • Scarves:

    Scarves are a winter favourite in most types of winter weather. So naturally, it should also feature in your UK winter packing list. Buy a lovely, warm scarf and wrap it around your neck. Scarves are considered a fashion statement much more by women than men in the UK. But everyone can wear them when it’s cold enough to keep their neck warm. The students in the UK will also find scarves customized by universities with patterns and colours. All sports lovers would also find scarves customized per the colours of different clubs or teams.

  • Gloves or Mittens:

    Gloves and mittens will also come in handy during the cold days of UK winter. The mixture of rain and cold temperatures can leave your fingers feeling chilly. In such situations, your palms could do with some warmth. Gloves have openings for each finger on your palm. That’s not the case with a mitten. The latter has one opening for the thumb and another for the rest of your fingers. It keeps your fingers close together and hence is usually a warmer option. But if you opt for mittens, you’ll have to compromise on dexterity. It’s a less practical option. You won’t be able to hold things firmly or use a gadget. Gloves are more versatile in that sense. You get touchscreen variations for your winter gloves too. They’re ideal for handling gadgets during the winter season.

  • Wellies:

    Wellington boots, or wellies, are waterproof, durable, knee-high rubber boots. They let you wander around on muddy grounds and through puddles. You can get wellies in almost any colour. Also, bright colours and patterns are popular. They’re a must-have in UK winter. If you plan to visit damp and muddy locations, they’re helpful.

  • Footwear:

    Your footwear is as important as your other clothing during the winter season. Waterproof boots are a must-have during the UK winter season. You shouldn’t neglect this item in your winter collection. Invest in a good pair of boots that will last for years. If you’re planning to hike throughout peak winter, buy boots that are compatible with crampons

  • Cold-Weather Hiking Gear for UK Winter Season:

    • Base Layer: These are the first layers in your winter layering. You need clothing that keeps you warm, dries fast and regulates heat. You should wear something lightweight for the best results. As for the fabrics, merino wool or synthetic fabrics are a good choice for your winter wear in the UK. They will fulfil some of the features I’ve mentioned above.
    • Mid-Layers: After your base layer comes to the mid layer, this layer is sandwiched between the base and the outermost layer. Here you need clothing that provides good insulation and helps with body heat retention. You could wear fleece, wool and down for this layer. Sweaters and hoodies would do a great job as your mid-layers. They will provide warmth along with comfort as well. Also, if it gets warm, you can take off the outer layer and manage it.
    • Outer Layers: Finally comes your outermost layer. The shell jacket will be your first line of defence against the winter elements. So it should be windproof and water-resistant. You need to invest in something that’s high quality as well. You can opt for something lightweight and breathable. A simple shell layer keeps you dry without feeling bulky.