London, the capital of the United Kingdom, is a vibrant, diverse city with a rich history. It boasts iconic landmarks such as the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and the Houses of Parliament. The city is a cultural hub, home to world-renowned institutions. Due to its temperate oceanic climate (Cfb), temperatures in London are mild, and rainfall is moderate throughout the year.
Summers are generally warm, with average highs around 22°C (72°F), while winters are cool but not severe, with average lows around 2°C (36°F). But does it snow in London? Can you enjoy snowy days in this sizeable city of Urbern? Keep reading to learn more.
Does it Snow in London?
Yes, it snows in London, but snowfall is infrequent and often light. On average, London experiences snowfall on about 16 days per year. However, the amount of snow accumulates is usually minimal, and heavy snowfall is rare.
When does it snow in London: (December-February)
In London, snowfall typically occurs during the winter months, from December to February. January is the most likely month to see snow, with temperatures often cold enough to support snowfall. As temperatures drop, December can also bring occasional snow, especially towards the end of the month.
February continues to see potential snow, though it becomes less frequent as the month progresses towards spring. Snowfall in March is rare but possible, especially in early March. While London can experience snow from December through early March, the occurrences are generally brief and not heavy.
History of Snowfall in London
| Date | Event Description |
| September 25, 1885 | Earliest recorded snowfall in London. |
| December 1981 | Heavy snowfall was recorded. |
| Early 1981 | Significant snowfall events. |
| January 1987 | Notable heavy snowfall. |
| February 1991 | Biggest snowfall in London’s history at the time, lasting for several days. |
| 2008-2009 | Snowfall that surpassed the February 1991 event in magnitude. |
| February 2018 | Major snowfall due to the Beast from the East weather system from Siberia, colliding with Storm Emma. |
| March 2018 | Continued snowfall from the Beast from the East, less severe than the February event, causing fatalities. |
Where to enjoy snow in London?
Hyde Park
Hyde Park is one of London’s largest and most famous parks. When it snows, it transforms into a winter wonderland with vast open spaces perfect for building snowmen and having snowball fights. The Serpentine Lake and the surrounding landscapes covered in snow offer picturesque views.
Regent’s Park
Regent’s Park offers beautiful snowy landscapes with well-maintained gardens, vast lawns, and serene lakes. It’s an excellent place for a winter walk, and the snow-covered trees and plants in the Queen Mary’s Gardens add to the charm.
Hampstead Heath
Hampstead Heath provides some of the best natural landscapes in London, with rolling hills and open spaces that look stunning in the snow. The views from Parliament Hill, with the city skyline in the background, are particularly striking when covered in snow.
Greenwich Park
Greenwich Park offers sweeping views over the River Thames and the city, making it a fantastic spot to enjoy the snow. The Park’s historic sites, like the Royal Observatory and the Prime Meridian line, add a unique backdrop to the snowy scenery.
Richmond Park
Richmond Park is known for its deer herds and expansive woodlands. The snow-covered Park offers a magical experience, with the sight of deer roaming through the snowy landscapes creating a fairy-tale-like atmosphere.
Kew Gardens
Kew Gardens is a botanical garden with a diverse collection of plants. Its glasshouses and exotic plants take on a unique beauty in the snow. The snow-covered landscapes, combined with the tranquility of the gardens, provide a peaceful escape.
Alexandra Palace
Alexandra Palace’s elevated location provides fantastic views over London, especially when the city is blanketed in snow. The surrounding Park offers ample space for snow activities and enjoying the winter scenery.
Why does it snow in London?
Snow can fall throughout London and is not limited to specific parts of the city. However, the intensity and accumulation of snow can vary across different areas due to microclimates and local geographical features. Here are some critical points about snowfall distribution in London:
Urban Heat Island Effect
Central London, with its dense buildings and infrastructure, tends to be slightly warmer due to the urban heat island effect. As a result, snowfall may be lighter and melt more quickly compared to the suburbs and outlying areas.
Higher Elevations
Areas with higher elevations, such as Hampstead Heath and Alexandra Palace, might see slightly more snow accumulation due to their elevation and less urbanization than the city center.
Parks and Open Spaces
Ample parks and open spaces like Hyde Park, Richmond Park, and Greenwich Park provide areas where snow can accumulate more noticeably, offering more scenic, snowy landscapes.
Suburbs
The suburban areas of London often experience more pronounced snowfall than the city center, with less urban heat and more open spaces allowing snow to settle.
Ski resorts in London
In Greater London, there are two ski resorts, both featuring dry slopes for skiing:
Skieasy Chiswick
Located in Chiswick, this ski resort offers 0.1 kilometers of dry slopes at 9 meters, providing a compact but enjoyable skiing experience. It’s an excellent place for beginners and those looking to practice skiing without traveling far from the city.
Chel*Ski – London
Situated in London, ChelSki features 0.1 kilometers of dry slopes, with an altitude reaching up to 7 meters. ChelSki is an indoor skiing facility offering a convenient and accessible way to experience skiing within the urban environment. It’s trendy for training and honing skiing techniques year-round.
