What’s in This Article
London in December can surprise you. Temperatures drop, rain shows up uninvited, and daylight fades by 4 PM. But knowing what to expect puts you in control, so you can plan smarter, pack right, and actually enjoy the city.
Quick Answer
London in December sees daytime temperatures between 8°C and 11°C, with overnight lows around 3°C to 4°C. Expect frequent rain, overcast skies, and roughly 8 hours of daylight per day. Frost is common, heavy snow is rare. Pack layers, a waterproof jacket, and an umbrella.
Key Takeaways
- Daytime temperatures typically range from 8°C to 11°C, with frosty mornings around 3°C to 4°C.
- London averages 50–70mm of rainfall in December, so expect frequent showers and overcast days.
- Snow is rare but possible during cold snaps, while frost on pavements and roads is much more common.
- Daylight lasts about 8 hours, with sunrise near 8 AM and sunset around 4 PM.
- Dress in layers, wear waterproof shoes, and carry an umbrella to stay comfortable throughout the month.
Typical Temperature Range During December
December in London brings genuinely chilly weather. Daytime highs usually fall between 8°C and 11°C, so dressing warmly matters, especially if you plan to spend time outdoors.
Mornings and evenings get colder, often dropping to around 3°C or 4°C. Frost and icy patches are likely during these hours. The air feels crisp and sharp, and layering up becomes necessary rather than optional.
Light snowfall can occur, though it’s not guaranteed every year. When it does fall, it adds a picturesque touch to the city’s streets and historic landmarks.
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Rainfall and Precipitation Patterns
Rainfall in December tends to be moderate but unpredictable, bringing frequent showers and overcast skies throughout the month.
You might experience light drizzles one day and steady, persistent rain the next. London’s average precipitation sits around 50–70mm for December, and this can fluctuate, leading to wetter or drier stretches depending on the year.
Rain spreads unevenly across the month. Some days bring multiple short showers while others stay mostly dry. Cloud cover stays common, and an umbrella or raincoat should always be within reach when you head outdoors.
Heavy downpours are less frequent but can still hit, especially during cold fronts. Plan for a wet month overall, but expect enough dry spells to get around comfortably.
Chances of Snow and Frost
December brings a real chance of snowfall on some days, especially during colder spells. Frosty nights are common and can leave icy conditions come morning. Temperature swings can be sharp, so prepare for sudden changes in how cold it feels outside.
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Likelihood of Snowfall
Snow is less common in London during December than in colder regions, but it’s not out of the question. Snowfall typically occurs on a few days each winter, usually as light or brief showers rather than heavy accumulation.
Temperatures hovering between 2°C and 8°C can support snow when cold air moves in from the north or east. London’s urban heat island effect warms the city slightly, which reduces snowfall chances compared to surrounding areas.
You might wake up to a dusting on rooftops or grass, but significant accumulations are rare. The likelihood rises if a cold front arrives and keeps temperatures low for an extended period.
Frosty Night Conditions
Frosty nights are a regular feature of December in London, especially when clear skies and calm winds prevail. You’ll notice your breath fogging in the cold air and frost forming on windows and grass by morning.
Frost chances increase on nights with little wind and clear skies, as temperatures can drop sharply without cloud cover to hold warmth in. While snow isn’t guaranteed, frost is almost certain during cold snaps, creating an icy sparkle across streets and surfaces.
Warning: Frost creates icy pavements and slippery roads, so take extra care when walking or driving during morning hours.
Frost can also damage outdoor plants and delicate surfaces. Protect vulnerable greenery if temperatures look set to drop overnight.
Temperature Fluctuations
Temperature fluctuations become more pronounced as December progresses. The thermometer swings between mild daytime highs and cold nights, which increases the chance of overnight frost.
These swings can bring snow during a strong cold snap, especially on clear, calm evenings. Milder spells reduce snow chances but may still leave icy patches on roads and pavements. Stay alert to daily forecasts, as sudden temperature drops can make travel hazardous with little warning.
Your best approach is to prepare for variable weather. Dress in layers and check for frost warnings before heading out each morning.
Daylight Hours and Sunshine
Daylight hours shrink considerably in December, giving London just about 8 hours of natural light each day. The sun rises around 8 AM and sets near 4 PM, making afternoons feel shorter and often gloomier than you might expect.
Cloud cover is common, so sunshine is far from guaranteed even during daylight hours. When the sun does appear, it stays low on the horizon and casts long shadows rather than strong warmth.
Shorter days can affect your mood and energy levels. Seek out cozy indoor spots when the gloom gets heavy, and take full advantage of any sunny afternoon you get. A crisp, bright December day in London can be genuinely beautiful.
Wind Conditions and Humidity
Wind speeds in December can shift quickly, changing how cold it feels outside. Humidity levels also fluctuate, making the air feel damp or dry at different points in the day. Both factors directly shape your comfort when you spend time outdoors.
Wind Speed Variability
Wind speed in London during December fluctuates considerably, driven by shifting weather patterns and atmospheric pressure systems.
On some days, brisk breezes reach 20 to 30 miles per hour, especially when cold fronts pass through. These stronger winds make it feel colder than the thermometer suggests. On calmer days, speeds drop to gentle breezes of around 5 miles per hour.
Low-pressure systems moving across the Atlantic drive this variability. Prepare for both sudden gusts and periods of relative calm — conditions can change within a few hours.
Humidity Fluctuations
Humidity levels in London vary quite a bit in December, often influenced by shifting wind direction.
Atlantic winds bring moist air, raising humidity and creating a damp, chilly atmosphere. When winds shift from land, humidity drops and the cold can feel sharper and drier. These changes can happen within a single day, with damp mornings giving way to drier afternoons.
Fog can form during high-humidity periods, cutting visibility and adding to the winter gloom. Wind direction and strength directly control how humid or dry the air feels, so conditions can shift quickly.
How Wind and Humidity Affect Your Comfort
Wind and humidity work together to shape how cold you actually feel outdoors. Strong wind increases wind chill, making already cold temperatures feel more punishing than the forecast suggests.
High humidity makes the air feel wetter and more uncomfortable, especially during prolonged exposure. Low humidity feels drier but can dry out your skin and airways. Windy, humid days are the most unpleasant combination — layering up and shielding yourself from the wind makes a significant difference on those days.
How to Dress and Prepare for December in London
December in London brings chilly temperatures and unpredictable weather, so your preparation matters. The right gear keeps you comfortable regardless of what the day brings.
Dress in layers so you can adjust as temperatures change throughout the day. A warm, waterproof coat is essential for staying dry during rain showers. Don’t skip the hat, gloves, and scarf — they protect the parts of you most exposed to wind and cold.
Pro tip: Build your outfit around three layers — a moisture-wicking thermal base, an insulating mid-layer, and a waterproof outer shell — and you’ll handle rain, wind, and cold in one system.
Wear comfortable, waterproof shoes to handle wet streets and puddles. Carry an umbrella for unexpected showers. If you plan to spend long stretches outdoors, a small thermal flask with a hot drink makes a real difference to your comfort.
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Seasonal Variations Across Different Weeks
London’s December weather shifts from week to week, so staying flexible with your plans pays off.
In the first week, you might enjoy milder days with occasional rain. Carrying an umbrella keeps you covered when showers pop up unexpectedly. By mid-December, temperatures often drop and frosty mornings become more frequent.
The third week sometimes brings brief cold snaps or even light snowfall, especially toward month’s end. Milder overcast spells with drizzly conditions also appear in this stretch.
The last week can be unpredictable. Temperatures fluctuate and weather patterns shift rapidly around the Christmas period. Keep an eye on weekly forecasts so you can plan outdoor activities on better days and lean into indoor options when the weather turns.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Does December Weather Vary Between Central London and the Suburbs?
Central London tends to run slightly milder and wetter than the surrounding suburbs. The urban heat island effect, combined with proximity to the Thames, raises temperatures in the city centre. Outer areas can feel colder and drier by comparison.
What Outdoor Activities Work Well in December in London?
Ice skating at outdoor rinks, Christmas markets, and winter walks all suit December weather well. Dress warmly and you’ll find plenty to do outside, even with the chill. London’s festive atmosphere makes outdoor exploration especially rewarding during this month.
What Are the Best Clothing Choices for December in London?
Choose warm, layered clothing including thermal underlayers, a waterproof outer coat, cozy mid-layers, and sturdy waterproof boots. Add a hat, gloves, and scarf to protect against wind and cold. Comfortable, dry feet make all the difference on wet December days.
How Does December Weather Affect Transportation and Travel in London?
Rain, frost, and occasional icy conditions can cause delays and disruptions to trains, buses, and road travel. Check for service updates regularly, allow extra travel time, and be ready for possible cancellations during severe weather spells.
Can Unusual Weather Disrupt December Plans in London?
Storms or sudden cold snaps can and do disrupt travel plans in December. Staying updated with local forecasts helps you react quickly. Building flexibility into your schedule — whether in accommodation or transport bookings — reduces the impact of unexpected weather events.
December in London rewards the well-prepared visitor. Pack the right gear, keep an eye on forecasts, and lean into the city’s festive energy. Cold and rain are part of the experience, but so are glowing Christmas lights, warm pubs, and markets that make the season worth braving the weather for.