The Weather in London in December

Updated: November 7, 2023

This post is a summary of the December weather in London, U.K., with tips on what to wear as well as things to do.

As a retired meteorologist turned tour guide, I didn't expect that I would use my experience as a forecaster in my new career in tourism.

But here I am, finding myself answering more weather questions as a blogger than I ever did as a weatherman.

So, here are answers to some frequently asked questions about the weather in London for the month of December.

If you will be in London at the start or the end of the month, then check out our weather guides for November and January.  


HOW COLD IS LONDON IN DECEMBER?

Early this month, the afternoon high temperatures tend to be 9-10 C (upper 40's F) with overnight lows around 5-6 C (lower 40's F).

On a couple of the warmer days, high temperatures will reach 12-13 C (mid-50s F).

The highest temperature recorded here in December was 17 C (63 F).  

Weather in London in December

As we near Christmas, daytime highs tend to be mostly 6-7 C (mid-40's F) and early morning lows around 3-4 C (upper 30's F).

A few mornings will see temperatures dipping down to around -1 to -2 C (30 F).

The coldest temperature recorded in London in December was -12 C (10 F).


HOW MUCH SUN AND RAIN

The sun is low in the sky this month with daylight averaging about 8 hours.

Skies this month tend to be partly to mostly overcast with about 9-10 days seeing at least 1 mm (.04 inches) of precipitation, mostly falling in the form of light to moderate rain. 

Average Sun and Rain in London in December

DOES IT SNOW IN LONDON IN DECEMBER?

Some snow is reported here in December, but only for about 2-3 days.

Check out our post titled "When Does It Snow in London" for more details.


WHAT TO WEAR

It is always best to carry an umbrella in London and during December, winter attire like hats and gloves with a medium to heavy coat will also be needed.

Temperatures can drop significantly at night, so be sure to bring extra layers if you will be out after dark.

Also, don't forget festive clothing if you plan to celebrate the holidays here! 

What to Wear in London in December
  • Thick coat 
  • Sweater 
  • Wooly hat 
  • Scarf 
  • Gloves 
  • Winter boots 
  • Multiple layers

THINGS TO DO IN DECEMBER

December is a magical time to be in London, especially the 2nd half of the month.

We have created a post listing over 40 different things to do.

Below is our list of the top 10.

You should consider a tourist discount pass as you could save up to 50% of retail ticket prices to tours, attractions, and restaurants.

Read the full December list here as well as our post on things to do specifically for Christmas.

About The Author

Fred Pickhardt

Fred is a marine meteorologist and sailed briefly with American Export Lines in the Far East trade. He has extensive experience in weather analysis, weather forecasting, and forensic weather event reconstructions. Fred founded Ocean Weather Services and currently provides forensic marine weather reports to the maritime industry.
Updated: November 7th, 2023
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