Last Updated on 21 June, 2023
March is a captivating time to visit London, as the city begins to shake off the winter chill(even though its been holding on for dear life this month) and welcome the arrival of spring.
The bustling city of London offers a plethora of activities and attractions to enjoy, from awe-inspiring historical landmarks to quirky local festivals. Whether you’re looking to soak up some culture, indulge in delicious food or simply enjoy the fresh air, London has something for everyone.
We have already covered February as well as things to do in Spring in general. In this post, we’ll explore some of the best things to see and do in London during the month of March, so that you can make the most of your visit to this dynamic city. So, grab your umbrella and join us as we take a tour of London in March.
What Is The Weather Like In London In March
First things first, lets talk weather in London in March. March marks the transition from winter to spring. The weather can be quite variable, with temperatures starting to warm up slightly compared to the colder months of January and February.
The average high temperature in March is around 11°C (52°F), while the average low temperature is around 4°C (39°F). However, temperatures can vary widely, and it’s not uncommon to experience colder temperatures or even snowfall during the month of March.
Rainfall is also common in London in March, with an average of around 50 mm (2 inches) of precipitation throughout the month. It’s a good idea to pack clothing that can be layered, as well as a waterproof jacket or umbrella to be prepared for any rain.
Overall, while the weather can be somewhat unpredictable, March can be a pleasant time to visit London, with the start of spring bringing a bit more daylight and milder temperatures compared to the depths of winter.
Things To Think About When Planning A Trip To London in March?
If you’re planning a trip to London in March, here are some things to consider:
- Weather: March is a transitional month in London, with temperatures ranging from 4-12°C (39-54°F) and occasional rain. Pack clothes that can be layered, a waterproof jacket, and comfortable shoes.
- Accommodation: As with any travel destination, it’s important to book accommodation in advance, especially if you’re traveling during school holidays or major events. We have covered plenty of tips on the best neighbourhoods stay in London, as well as the best places to stay for families.
- Budget: London can be an expensive city to visit, but traveling in March can be more budget-friendly compared to peak summer season. Consider looking for deals on flights, accommodations, and attractions. There are plenty of free museums and free things to do in London but we also advice booking some tours in advance. You can book these on sites like Viator or Get Your Guide.
- Events: March is a lively month in London, with St. Patrick’s Day, the Oxford vs. Cambridge Boat Race, the London Coffee Festival, and the Kew Gardens Orchid Festival, among other events. Plan your London itinerary around any events you want to attend.
- Transportation: London has an extensive transportation system, including buses, trains, and the Underground. Consider purchasing an Oyster card or a Travelcard to save money on transportation.
- Sightseeing: London is home to numerous iconic landmarks and attractions, such as the British Museum, the Tower of London, and Buckingham Palace. Be sure to plan your itinerary in advance to make the most of your time in the city as there at a lot of beautiful places in London not to miss.
- Food and drink: London has a diverse food scene, with options ranging from traditional pub fare to Michelin-starred restaurants. Don’t forget to sample some of the local cuisine, and consider trying out some of the city’s many coffee shops and pubs. We have plenty of guide on the best pubs and cafes in London.
Overall, planning a trip to London in March requires some careful consideration, but the city has plenty to offer, from cultural events to historic landmarks and delicious food.
So, Is March A Good Time To Visit London?
March can be a great time to visit London, but it also depends on your preferences and what you want to do during your visit. Here are some factors to consider:
Weather: In March, London starts to transition from winter to spring. The weather can still be chilly, with temperatures ranging from 4-12°C (39-54°F). There may also be some rain, so it’s a good idea to pack layers and a waterproof jacket as we have mentioned above.
Crowds: March is generally a quieter time to visit London compared to the summer months, but it still attracts tourists, particularly during school holidays. However, many popular attractions and events may have fewer crowds, making it easier to explore without crowds.
Events: London has a vibrant events calendar, and March is no exception. From St. Patrick’s Day to the Oxford vs. Cambridge Boat Race, London Beer Week, and the London Book Fair, there’s plenty to see and do.
Budget: March can be a good time to visit London if you’re on a budget. Flights and accommodations tend to be cheaper than during the peak summer season, and many attractions offer discounted rates during the off-peak season.
Overall, March can be a good time to visit London, particularly if you’re interested in cultural events, outdoor activities, and want to avoid the summer crowds. Just be prepared for the cooler weather and potential rain.
Fun Things To Do In London in March
March is a great time to visit London as the city begins to shake off the winter chill and springs into life with a host of exciting events and activities. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s no shortage of fun things to do in London in March. From cultural events to outdoor activities, here are some of the top things to do in London this March.
Whether you are planning a trip to London with kids, as a couple, or want to visit solo, March is a great time to visit London, with plenty of fun things to do and see. Whether you’re a fan of sports, books, beer, or wildlife, there’s something for everyone in London this March. So why not book your trip now and experience all that this vibrant city has to offer?
London is a city with an incredible amount of history, culture, and entertainment. Here are some must-see attractions to consider adding to your itinerary:
- The British Museum: The British Museum is one of the world’s oldest and largest museums, with a collection spanning millions of years of human history and culture. See more here for tips on the best and mostly free museums in London.
- The Tower of London: The Tower of London is a historic castle and fortress on the north bank of the River Thames. It has played a significant role in British history and houses the Crown Jewels. You can now also walk on the glass floor of the two bridge walks on the top of Tower Bridge. You can read more about our glass walk experience here.
- Buckingham Palace: Buckingham Palace is the London residence and administrative headquarters of the monarch of the United Kingdom. It is known for its iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony.
- The London Eye: The London Eye is a giant Ferris wheel on the South Bank of the River Thames. It offers stunning views of the city from its capsules. You also have plenty of things to do near London Eye, from cool cafes, restaurants, bars and hotels near the London Eye for those that not only want to be close by.
- Westminster Abbey: Westminster Abbey is a historic church located near the Houses of Parliament. It has been the site of numerous royal weddings, coronations, and funerals. See our guide for the most beautiful churches in London.
- The Tate Modern: The Tate Modern is a contemporary art museum located in a former power station on the south bank of the River Thames.
- The National Gallery: The National Gallery is an art museum located in Trafalgar Square. It houses a collection of over 2,300 paintings dating from the mid-13th century to 1900.
- The West End: The West End is London’s theater district, known for its world-class productions of plays, musicals, and other performances.
- Shopping In London: There are plenty of people who visit London just for retail therapy as London is one of the fashion capitals of the world. We have covered tips on London’s best shopping street, including tips on shopping in Covent Garden, Mayfair, Shoreditch, Greenwich and Chelsea.
- Explore London Markets: Whether you are a foodie, love a good bargain and everything in between. London has some of the best markets in the world. We have covered Camden Market, Columbia Road Flower Market, Spitalfields, Backyard Market, Greenwich Market and Borough Market.
These are just a few of the many must-see attractions in London. Whether you’re interested in history, art, culture, or entertainment, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. We have also covered more things to do in Kensington, Chelsea, Notting Hill, Brixton, Peckham, London Bridge, Bermondsey, Southbank, Covent Garden and more places in London.
Key Events And Festivals In March In London
There are several events and festivals that take place in London in March. Here are some of the key ones:
- St Patrick’s Day – London hosts a parade and festival to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day on March 17th. The parade starts at Piccadilly and ends in Trafalgar Square, where there are performances and food stalls. On March 17th, London will turn green as the city celebrates St. Patrick’s Day. The annual parade starts at Green Park and makes its way through Piccadilly, Trafalgar Square, and Whitehall. Expect to see colorful floats, marching bands, and plenty of people dressed in green.
- London Coffee Festival – This festival is a celebration of coffee culture, with exhibitions, workshops, tastings and demonstrations from some of the world’s leading baristas. The event takes place at the Old Truman Brewery from 3rd-6th March. If you’re a coffee lover, don’t miss the London Coffee Festival, which takes place in March. This event brings together some of the best coffee roasters, baristas, and coffee shops from around the world. You’ll have the chance to taste a variety of different coffees, attend workshops, and learn about the latest coffee trends.
- Affordable Art Fair – This event is a great opportunity to buy original artwork at affordable prices. The fair takes place at Battersea Park from 10th-13th March.
- Orchid Festival – Kew Gardens hosts an annual Orchid Festival in March, featuring thousands of exotic orchids in full bloom. This year’s theme is Thailand, and the festival runs from 5th March to 10th April. The Kew Gardens Orchid Festival is a stunning display of over 5,000 orchids in the Princess of Wales Conservatory at Kew Gardens. This year’s festival runs from February to March and has the theme of “A Carnival of Animals.” You’ll see a wide range of orchids, each one carefully crafted to look like an animal.
- Women of the World Festival – This festival celebrates women and girls and their achievements in arts, politics, science, and other fields. The event takes place at the Southbank Centre from 5th-6th March.
- Head of the River Race – This is one of the oldest rowing races in the world, with crews from around the UK and beyond competing on the River Thames. The race takes place on March 26th.
- London Book Fair – The London Book Fair is one of the largest book fairs in the world, and it takes place in London in March. This event is a must-visit for anyone who loves books, with hundreds of publishers, authors, and literary agents in attendance. You’ll have the chance to attend author talks, book signings, and panel discussions, as well as browse the latest releases.
- London Beer Week – Beer lovers should head to London in March for London Beer Week. This week-long celebration of all things beer includes brewery tours, tastings, and special events at bars and pubs across the city. You’ll have the chance to sample some of the best beers from around the world, as well as meet fellow beer enthusiasts.
- The Oxford vs. Cambridge Boat Race – The Oxford vs. Cambridge Boat Race is one of the most famous sporting events in the world, and it takes place on the River Thames in London every year. The race is usually held in late March, and thousands of people line the riverbanks to cheer on the teams. It’s a great day out, with plenty of food and drink stalls to keep you fed and watered.
- Attend the Country to Country Music Festival – The O2 | 10th – 12th of March 2023 – A line up of some of the most popular country song musicians.
- Attend the London Handel Festival – Revial of Handel’s music through live and digital performances.
- Attend The Other Art Fair – A combination of original yet affordable works from independent artists with immersive installations, performances, DJs – and a fully stocked bar.
- See The Cherry Blossom Trees – With the weather warming up, from the end of March to May you start to see London’s stunning cherry blossom start to appear. Usually the colder the Spring is, the later they bloom. The best places to see Cherry Blossoms in London include Greenwich Park, Kew Gardens, Kyoto Garden at Holland Park, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Kensington Gardens, Regent’s Park, Battersea Park and St. James Park.
- Go For A Sunday Roast – We have covered plenty of pubs on the blog so there are ample places and opportunities to sample the best Sunday roast in London.
These are just a few of the events and festivals taking place in London in March. There are many more events happening throughout the month, so be sure to check the local events calendar for the latest updates.
What To Wear In London In March | Essential things to pack for London in March
When visiting London in March, it’s important to pack clothing that can be layered and adjusted for varying temperatures and weather conditions. Here are some tips on what to wear in London in March:
- Dress in layers: The weather in March can be unpredictable, so it’s important to dress in layers. Wear a base layer, such as a t-shirt or thermal top, and add a sweater or jacket for warmth. A scarf and hat can also help keep you warm.
- Bring a waterproof jacket: Rainfall is common in London in March, so it’s a good idea to bring a waterproof jacket or raincoat. You may also want to pack an umbrella or waterproof shoes.
- Wear comfortable shoes: London is a walking city, so comfortable shoes are a must. Pack a pair of waterproof shoes or boots in case of rain or snow.
- Consider the dress code: London is known for its fashion, so consider dressing smartly if you plan on visiting upscale restaurants, theaters, or other venues. You may want to pack a dress or a suit jacket for a more formal occasion.
- Bring sunglasses: While March can be quite chilly, the sun can still be bright. Bring a pair of sunglasses to protect your eyes on sunny days.
- Accessories: Gloves, hats, and scarves can all be useful for keeping warm in chilly temperatures. Sunglasses can also come in handy on sunny days.
- Electronics: While packing your camera and other important electronics, don’t forget to pack any necessary chargers or adapters for your electronics, as well as a travel converter if needed.
- Medications and toiletries: Pack any necessary medications, as well as a small first-aid kit. It’s also a good idea to bring travel-sized toiletries, including hand sanitizer and tissues.
- Travel documents: Be sure to bring your passport or other travel documents, as well as any tickets or reservations for transportation, accommodations, or attractions.
- Backpack or day bag: A small backpack or day bag can be useful for carrying items like a water bottle, snacks, and a map or guidebook while exploring the city.
Overall, packing versatile, comfortable clothing that can be layered and adjusted for the weather will help you stay comfortable and prepared for anything during your visit to London in March.
Where To Stay In London
There are plenty of amazing hotels in London. From hotels with spas to those with views of the River Thames, those hotels with balconies and terraces for the ultimate views of London from the moment you wake up.
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