The Ultimate Travel Guide for London in January (2026) — from a Londoner!

Planning a trip to London in January? Here’s a list of all the things to consider when visiting the UK capital at the beginning of the year — from a local!

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If you’re ready to start the year like a star, I’d say a trip to London is the way to go.

From the winter charm on less busy streets to embracing the beauty of the city in the dark, visiting in January can be quite captivating.

So as post-holiday calm descends upon London, it’s your turn to discover this magnificent place and maybe (just maybe) enjoy it like most people would never — under the snow!

A well-planned trip to London in January can make the difference between a bad experience and a great one. So let’s dive in to see what you need to consider, what the city has to offer and the best way to enjoy it, from a London travel blogger.

The Ultimate Travel Guide for London in January

P.S. – Coming to London? Have the perfect trip planned for you with our 3,5, or 7-Day London Tourist Itineraries 🇬🇧

Is January a Good Time to Visit London?

Visiting London in January comes with a unique blend of pros. The most important being that it’s less crowded compared to December.

January is basically the start of the off-peak tourist season, so it provides a more relaxed atmosphere in the capital for exploring its streets and attractions.

It’s also the time when many of the city’s theatres have shows in full swing, so theatre-lovers are in for a treat! And if you’re more of a shopper, then you’d be happy to know that tons of London shops and markets offer exciting post-Christmas sales.

Needless to say that it’s the perfect month to witness the London’s winter charm firsthand, with the possibility of snow adding a magical touch to the city’s iconic architecture.

However, there are some drawbacks to visiting in January as well. The most obvious being the freezing temperatures (when will it not be about the weather in my beloved London?).

Winter in London can be quite cold, with temperatures often dropping below what you’d consider ‘normal’. If you’re not a fan of cold weather, January’s chill might be off-putting. Although I’d say it’s always possible to combat it if you’re wearing the right things…more on that soon.

On the other side, daylight hours are significantly shorter in winter. Say goodbye to the traditional sunsets after 6 and hello to ‘evenings’ as early as 4 p.m.!

This may potentially reduce your site-seeing time with good lighting for photos, but definitely not your exploration of London. In fact, I think the city during dark times is as stunning if not more, and it’s definitely underrated!

Read more: The BEST Night Tours in London (2024): A Local’s Guide to Exploring the Magic of London at Night

So when it comes to visiting London in January, the city’s charm, post-holiday calm, and the unique experiences on offer tend to outweigh the cons, especially if you’re prepared for the cold. So you should definitely consider it!

London Weather in January

Alright, let’s not mess around. How cold is it actually in January?

I won’t sugarcoat it, friends. It gets a bit nippy. Not awful, not unbearable (if you follow my advice), but definitely cold; particularly during the night and early mornings.

Temperatures typically range between minimum averages of 2°C (36°F) to maximum averages of 7°C (45°F). But the strong winds make it feel so much colder than it is.

Chart for January 2024 from AccuWeather

Rain is also quite common in London throughout the year, and January is no exception. The city averages about 15 days of rainfall in the first month of the year. However, it’s often light and drizzly rather than heavy. I’d say a waterproof coat, footwear and backpack or tote will have you sorted.

There is also reduced daylight in January, with daylight hours going from 8 hours at the beginning of the month to slightly over 9 hours towards the end of it.

What to Pack for London in January

Look, even though there are always tons of options to be indoors in London (free museums, anyone?), you’ll still want to stay outside. At the end of the day, there’s nothing like exploring the famous landmarks with a hot cocoa warming your hands.

So you definitely need to be winter-ready! Here’s my list of your absolute must when packing for the cold days you’re about to experience.

Winter Coat 

This one’s going to be your armour and that’s why you need to pick correctly. 

When you select your winter coat of preference (let’s be honest, you’re probably not packing several as you won’t want to travel like Daphne from Scooby Doo), you need to think of functionality, warmth and convenience. 

Make sure it’s cosy, not so heavy (there’ll be a lot of walking!) and, if you can, enhanced with a good hood. That way, you’re also prepared for light rain! 

Turtleneck

Nothing screams “winter in London” more than this layer. It’s the perfect balance between warmth and style, and it’ll be perfect to adapt to your surroundings. 

I personally opt for 2 contrasting colours, so that I can switch things up without carrying much. Like black and white or brown and blue. 

Thermals & Fleece Tights

Being warm and layering up shouldn’t come at the cost of fashion. And a good neutral thermal can make the difference between you trying to rush to your hotel or staying out until the last pub closes. They’re ‘invisible’ and functional, so you won’t regret it. 

Fleece tights, on the other hand, will make it possible for you to wear your amazing cold jeans without hating life! Or that sexy skirt you were planning to pair it with… 

High Boots

Extremely good-looking and very warm, they’re perfect for the weather and for looking good on your trip. Just make sure they’re comfortable! 

Scarf, Gloves & Hats 

We couldn’t finish our January in London packing list without the perfect accessories to protect you from the cold wind. Three words — scarf, gloves, hat. 

Other Items

Roaming around London requires you to be savvy on what you bring and how you carry it. At the end of the day, you want to be comfortable but stylish, as you’re in one of the most gorgeous cities in the world! You definitely need to consider these accessories to enhance your experience:

• A small backback or a medium tote. Consider neutral colours to use with everything, light yet waterproof materials, and a good size to have some extra space for any souvenirs or snacks.
• A compact umbrella. Yes, London is known for its rain. However, make sure to check the weather before carrying it, as you might be okay if your coat has a good, sturdy hood.
• Lip balm and hand cream. It gets dry in here! So pay extra attention and care to your lips and hands, as they’ll need it.
• Portable charger. Believe me, your phone battery will die as London is just too pretty. Plus, no one lives without Google Maps or Citymapper! Here’s the one I use.
• Power adapter. Don’t forget that the UK operates under different outlets. I suggest getting a Universal Adapter if you’re travelling in Europe too on your trip.

What to Wear for London in January

Layers, layers, layers.

As you probably assumed from the packing list above, a winter in London requires you to pick your warmest garments and place them one over the other in a very smart way.

That doesn’t mean you need to look like a Michelin Man! On the contrary, it just means you need to choose correctly and prepare for anything. Because, yes, the myth is true: London weather is crazy.

I like to start my outfit with a solid base of warm and functional thermals, both on top and below. Then, a cosy turtleneck and your trousers or skirt of choice. If you’d like something more fashionable, a sweater dress might be the way to go. Just make sure that second layer is as strong as the first one!

Fluffy socks are great for boots. And if you’d like to secure comfort during your time outdoors, then a scarf and gloves are a must. Hats are optional, although highly recommended.

That’s it! You’re perfect to be outside. You can take off your coat when in a heated beer garden. And you can be more than free inside a cosy pub.

The Best Things to do in January in London

London in January means more than just cold and festive leftovers. After reading all the things you can do this month, you’ll be eager to get on the plane (or train)!

Go Ice Skating

Whoever’s in London during the winter knows this is an activity you can’t miss. And luckily for you, the most popular are still open. Like the Somerset House Ice Rink until the 14th and the fun Canary Wharf Rink until February 24th! (P.S. – If you’re in Canary Wharf, make sure the Canary Wharf Winter Lights are on your list too!).

Shop London’s January sales

Many high-street shops in London start their sales immediately after Christmas and until the middle of January, so it’s your perfect opportunity to shop like royalty. Don’t miss the iconic Fortnum & Mason, the luxurious Harrods, the classic Liberty and the huge Selfridges.

Visit Hogwarts in the Snow

If you’re a Potterhead or a big film lover, you can’t miss a visit to the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter with Transportation, where you’ll see the wizarding world with a truly magical makeover.

From the Christmas trees in the Great Hall, the return of the Yule Ball and the snow in the Forbidden Forest; to the absolute jewel in the crown, the Hogwarts scale model covered in snow. All until January 14th!

Take a winter stroll in London’s best green spaces

Parks in London look beyond beautiful during the winter, so you can’t miss them. You can enjoy a quiet morning while admiring nature or have a hot and delicious coffee after lunch. Besides, the options are endless! My favourites for a winter stroll are Hyde Park and Hampstead Heath.

And of course…go to a pub!

London in January FAQs

➡️ Is January cold in London?

Oh, yes. January in London can be quite cold with average high temperatures around 7°C (45°F) and average lows around 2°C (36°F). But nothing that a good winter coat can’t fix!

➡️ Should I go to London in winter?

Yes, yes, yes! Look, it’s cold and wet and dark, but London during the winter is absolutely stunning with its Christmas lights, food and antique markets, and festive entertainment. Plus, pubs couldn’t be cosier any other time of the year.

➡️ Does London snow in January?

A popular question, and I understand why. The idea of appreciating London under the snow is appealing, however I’m afraid to say that it only snows very very occasionally.

The average amount of snowfall per year is around 5 to 10 cm (2-4 inches), but this is more frequent in the outer suburbs of the city. Even if it happens, it rarely stays on the ground for more than a day or two at a time. Here’s what to do when it snows in London just in case.

➡️ What is a must do in London in January?

Well, January is your last chance to engage in London’s festivities! So if you’re here early in the year, make sure you catch the last moments of the sparkling Christmas lights on Oxford Street or the last Christmas shows in the West End.

➡️ Is London busy in January?

You’d be happy to hear that London in January is indeed less crowded, so it’s an exceptional time to experience the capital!

Thanks for reading my London in January Guide. If you enjoyed it, let me know on Instagram!

CHECK OUT MORE LONDON GUIDES:

• What Is the Weather Like in London?
• The Ultimate Travel Guide for London in February — from a Londoner!
• London in March: Your Ultimate Travel Guide — from a Londoner!
• The Ultimate Travel Guide for London in April — from a Londoner!
• 10+ Unique Experiences in London You Have to Try for Yourself
• Top 10 London Attractions: 10 Famous Places to See & Visit
• 10 Tips for Tourists in London (Tourist Mistakes and How to Avoid Them)
• 101+ Fascinating Facts about London (History, Culture, and Quirky Bits!) — from a Londoner
• How to Spend New Year’s in London: Your Ultimate Guide

Happy Londoning,