Visiting London in January: A Guide to Making the Most of Your Trip
January is a great time to visit London if you prefer milder winter weather (average high of 9°C/48°F). London may also be a little less crowded than during December, especially towards the middle or end of the month. If you want to avoid the crowds and long queues at popular attractions, are looking for discounts and special offers on accommodations, tours, and tickets, or enjoy festive markets and events such as the Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park. However, keep in mind that January is also one of the coldest months in London, with average lows of 2°C/36°F. If you’re sensitive to cold weather, you may want to consider visiting during a warmer months.
Planning Your Trip
Before embarking on your journey to London in January, there are a few things you should consider, because they can make a world of difference!
Weather
January in London typically sees the year’s lowest temperatures.. You may even experience the odd spell of snow! That said, most people find London weather on average quite pleasant and mild, especially when compared to many other places your travels may take you.
Visiting London in January, expect quite chilly and wet weather, with average temperatures ranging from 2°C(36°F) to 10°C (43°F). You could have a few nights where the temperature dips below freezing! January also sees slightly more rain than most other months. So pack accordingly.
That said, in London, you will find that most places you visit, whether a museum, gallery, or restaurant, actively heat their spaces, so dress comfortably for both outdoor and indoor conditions. The outer suburbs tend to feel colder by a couple of degrees as they are more exposed, so where your accommodation is located will also be a factor when it comes to the weather and preparing for it.
Be sure to pack warm clothing, including a coat, scarf, gloves, and umbrella. If you are planning on outdoor activities such as walking tours, open-top bus tours or even taking a ride on the Thames Rocket, a poncho will also come in handy!
Accommodation
Book your accommodation well in advance, as savvy travelers quickly snap up good deals. Guide your choice of accommodation by your planned itinerary, budget, and arrival and departure airport(s) or station(s). Especially if you have already booked your flights! Check out our guide to London’s 6 International airports.
If your itinerary mostly includes attractions in outer London or even outside of London all together then it may be worth looking at more suitable accommodation in the outer boroughs. Otherwise, for general London Sightseeing activities, the majority of well known and popular attractions and activities in London are located in the inner boroughs(suburbs) of London.
Don’t forget to take your transport to and from your accommodation into account. You may want to check the travel times to and from your list of attractions and the area you are searching accommodation within. The Transport for London Journey Planner as well as Google Maps are two great resources to do exactly this.
There is accommodation to suit all variety of needs and budgets in London. Just state your approximate budget, type of stay and duration, and you will find quite a range. If you are looking for something very specific, it’s always better to search well in advance!
Things to do in London in January
London offers so much to visitors, especially during the festive season, it can be quite challenging to pick one over the other. Here is are some noteworthy contenders that would be worthwhile adding into any itinerary.
Early January
The first few days in January certainly have a unique feel to them if you are in London During that time. In the first week or so, there is still the festive Christmas spirit in the air! The last chance to see the Christmas decorations in the streets and stores, enjoy outdoor Ice-skating and Christmas Markets. There are also some unique bargains to be had for the savvy shoppers! The following are but some things to do in early January in London.
London New Years Day Parade(LNYDP)
London’s New Year’s Day Parade is a vibrant event marks the start of a new year in London. The streets of Westminster in London are transformed into an amazing spectacle, filled with dazzling floats, lively dancers, marching bands, and giant balloons. This parade, which has been a tradition since 1987, attracts thousands of spectators each year. The parade begins near The Ritz on Piccadilly, and makes its way through iconic landmarks like Piccadilly Circus, Pall Mall, and Trafalgar Square, before finishing at Whitehall.
January Sales
Many shops and department stores in Central London start their sales on Boxing day, with some continuing to mid January. Some stores include Hamleys, Harrods, Selfridges as well as many more on Oxford Street and Bond Street!
Last Chance to visit Christmas Markets in London
London’s Christmas markets amp up the festivities in December, but it is not too late! If you are visiting in the first week of January, you may still be able to catch a glimpse of some of these enchanting markets. Some of the markets are indeed working weekend markets that run all year, such as the Apple market in Covent Garden or London Borough Market.
Light Displays and Decorations
You can indeed see these spectacular displays in the evenings in the evenings. But be quick as these get turned off in the first week of January and are truly spectacular! But fear not if you have missed them, because London has so much more to offer!
Mid to late January
This can be a great time to visit this great city! The days are getting noticeably longer, with sunrise before 8am and sunsets well after 4pm. The air is fresh and the city seems to be be in a buzz. The energy of a new year ahead is noticeable everywhere! Some of the things to do in January in London are;
London Short Film Festival (17-26 January 2025)
Every January, LSFF presents ten days filled with short films, live events, Q&As, and multidisciplinary curation. The festival features 250-500 British and international films, chosen from over 5000 submissions. It also includes Special Events and industry offerings like workshops, panels, and discussions for filmmakers and industry professionals.
Burns Night (25th January)
A true Scottish Tradition in celebration of Robert Burns, on his birthday, the 25th of January 1759. Regardless if you are still going to Scotland, have just been there or just visiting London, Burns Night, or Burns Supper is a unique opportunity to experience a Scottish tradition right in the heart of London. Many venues offer a special Burns Supper menu for the occasion and the The Wolseley is but one such venue.
Chinese New Year (2025 – The year of the snake)
In 2025, the Chinese Lunar New year is on the 29th of January. Although the Lunar New Year itself will be on the Wednesday, the official festivities are scheduled for Saturday and and Sunday (1st and 2nd February. There will be a Chinese New Year parade, which takes place across London’s West End. Previously it started at Duncannon Street, up Charing Cross Road and down Shaftesbury Avenue, dispersing on Rupert Street. In Chinatown London you will see lion dancing, stalls and plenty of places to stop off for a Chinese New Year feast. Keep an eye on the official Chinatown London website for the exact time, date and location of the parade and festivities.
London Winter Staples
London always has plenty to offer in January, including indoor attractions such as museums like the British Museum, National Gallery, and Tate Modern. These museums are perfect for escaping the cold and can provide endless entertainment and cultural experiences. The museum’s winter exhibitions and events are also worth checking out, featuring a wide range of topics from art and history to science and technology.
In addition to indoor attractions, London has plenty of shopping centers that offer a range of products and experiences. Oxford Street, Regent Street, and Westfield London are great places to find deals on winter essentials, with festive window displays and in-store promotions adding to the holiday atmosphere.
London also offers numerous markets and attractions, both indoor and outdoor. Even though it may no longer be the festive Christmas markets, of December, those in Borough Market, Brick Lane and Covent Garden are certainly worth a visit.
London also hosts various cultural events throughout the year, including theater productions, concerts, and exhibitions. The National Theatre’s January lineup includes productions like “The Importance of Being Earnest” and “The Lion King.” Catch a show at the Shakespeare’s Globe or enjoy a concert at the Royal Albert Hall.
Believe it or not, London Parks offer a welcome respite from the buzz of the city. Even in January, the grass is green!
Food and Drink
London is famous for its diverse food scene, which includes traditional pubs like The Spaniards Inn or The Mayflower(booking is advised) where you can feel history come alive. You can also enjoy world-class cuisine at top restaurants like the Savoy Grill or The Delaunay. Some popular winter menus include:
You can also try delicious street food from vendors at Borough Market, Camden Market, or visit Brick Lane for food trucks, indoor and outdoor food markets.
Tips and Tricks
To make the most of your trip to London in January:
Book well in advance:
Reserve popular attractions and shows to avoid disappointment. Some top winter attractions include the British Museum’s Winter Exhibition, the National Gallery’s Christmas Exhibition, and the London Eye’s New Year’s Eve Celebration.
Pack warm clothing:
Don’t forget a scarf, gloves, and umbrella for chilly wet winter days.
Take advantage of deals:
Look out for discounts on accommodations, tours, and activities. Some popular winter promotions include hotel discounts and tour bundle deals.
Conclusion
Visiting London in January can be a hidden gem of a trip. With fewer tourists and lower prices, you can enjoy the city’s many attractions without breaking the bank.
London offers endless possibilities for travelers in January, from indoor attractions and shopping centers to festive markets and cultural events. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or simply enjoying a unique winter experience, there’s something for everyone in London during the holiday season.
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to explore one of the world’s greatest cities in style. With our insider tips and advice, you’ll be well-prepared for an unforgettable adventure in London. Happy travels to great places!