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Visiting London in March: Everything you should know | Attractions, events & more

London, a city synonymous with British royalty and global influence, extends a warm welcome to all. While its allure remains constant throughout the year, March presents a unique charm. Enjoy a vibrant cultural scene with a touch of spring in the air. Escape the winter crowds while still experiencing iconic landmarks, world-class museums, and a thriving culinary scene. London in March offers a blend of cultural richness, pleasant weather, and a more relaxed pace, making it an ideal time for exploration.

London in March at a glance

Weather: Average temperatures range between 5ºC and 10ºC. March is when the weather in London transitions from winter to spring. The weather, however, remains cold with frequent bouts of rain, about 45mm of rainfall for about 16 days through the month.

Daylight: There are usually 11 to 13 hours of daylight with the sun rising at around 6:30am and setting around 6pm.

Key events: St Patrick’s Day, Boat Race, Orchid Festival, London Games Festival, London Comic Con

Tourist season: The number of tourists visiting London in March dip, resulting in a fall in flight and accommodation rates.

Packing essentials: Pack a warm coat or jacket for layering, sweaters and long-sleeve shirts, and waterproof walking shoes. Scarves, gloves, and hats are also recommended for chilly days. Don’t forget your umbrella for rainy days.

Best time to visit London

London in spring: How March compares

Explore London through the year

12 things to do in London in March

The Shard

The Shard is the tallest building in the United Kingdom. Designed to be a vertical metropolis, it contains living quarters, workspaces, high-end cafés, and observation platforms, unlike most other skyscrapers.
Special events: On March 26 at 8:30pm, The Shard will switch off the spire lighting for an hour for Earth Hour. The Aqua Shard Restaurant also hosts an annual Mother’s Day dining experience.

Recommended experiences:

The View from The Shard Tickets with Champagne
The View from The Shard + London Eye Tickets

Insider tip: Make use of the Shard’s Viewfinder app and point your phone at the view to identify landmarks and learn historical facts through the app’s augmented reality technology. While you're up there, don't miss the High Above London exhibition which delves into the history of viewing platforms in London.

Tower of London

With a history dating back to 1399, the Tower of London is known for its role as a former palace, fort, zoo, and even a prison. The Tower of London houses art and gemstones collected from around the world, including the Crown Jewels.
Special events: Visit the Tower of London in March to witness the Royal Marines at the Ceremony of the Constable’s Dues at 12pm.

Recommended experiences:

Tower of London Early Access Tour with a Beefeater Private Meet & Greet
London Eye + Thames River Cruise + Tower of London Tickets with Access to Crown Jewels

Insider tip: Start with the Crown Jewels – they are one of the most popular attractions, so try to see them first thing in the morning as the Jewel House gets very crowded later in the day.

Kew Gardens

The Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew, established in 1840, is a globally renowned botanical garden, housing one of the world's largest and most diverse botanical and mycological asset libraries.
Special events: The Orchid Festival and the Sounds of Blooms Festival are the biggest highlights at Kew Gardens in March.

Recommended experiences:

Kew Gardens Admission Ticket
Kew Gardens + Kensington Palace Admission Tickets

Insider tip: Prioritize seeing the early spring blooms like crocuses and daffodils in the Woodland Garden and Great Broad Walk Borders. Don't forget to explore the Palm House as well.

West End Theater

If you enjoy art, the West End Theatre in London is the place to be. Aside from classics like The Lion King and The Phantom of the Opera, you will see a variety of other cutting-edge and critically renowned productions being screened in March.
Special events: Plays like My Neighbour Totoro, Retrograde, and Farewell Mister Haffmann open in early March.

Recommended experiences:

Insider tip: When selecting your seats, choose from the first few rows in the Stalls section for the best views of the stage.

SEA Life London Aquarium

At SEA Life London Aquarium, take a walk under the sea through the glass Ocean Tunnel. See the Seahorse Kingdom, piranhas, and crocodiles in the Rainforest Adventure, and test your nerves on the Shark Walk while sharks dart beneath you.
Special events: Look out for limited-time events like Peppa Pig’s Aquarium Adventure and World Book Day.

Recommended experiences:

Insider tip: While the main exhibits are fantastic, don't miss the smaller displays. Look for the jellyfish tanks, the reef displays, and the touch pools. Download the SEA LIFE London Aquarium app for interactive maps, feeding schedules, and even some fun games for kids.

Windsor Castle

This medieval fortress, built shortly after the Norman invasion in the 11th century, is the world's oldest and largest occupied castle. Its scale, however, pales in comparison to its architectural brilliance.
Special events: Attend the Hooves and Horses event at Windsor Castle and learn about the collection and stories of the Royal Mews.

Recommended experiences:

From London: Half-Day Tour to Windsor Castle
From London: Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, Bath & Roman Baths Day Trip

Insider tip: Windsor Castle is 36 km from London, with the journey taking over an hour. Booking a day trip with round-trip transfers from London saves you the hassle of figuring out transportation logistics.

Kensington Palace

Kensington Palace is currently home to the Prince and Princess of Wales, the Dukes and Duchesses of Gloucester and Kent, and Prince and Princess Michael of Kent. The palace also exhibits objects from the Royal treasury.
Special events: Go for special events like Dress Codes and see never-before-seen royal and court fashion treasures.

Recommended experiences:

Royal Afternoon Tea at Kensington Palace with Walking Tour of the Gardens
Kew Gardens + Kensington Palace Admission Tickets

Insider tip: Avoid large tour groups by arriving around 2-3pm. Don’t miss the Sunken Garden and the White Garden, which are free to explore.

Up at The O2

For panoramic views of London, take an adventurous outdoor ascent to the top of the world-famous arena. You can choose your preferred slot during the day to see London from a different perspective including the historic Greenwich, Olympic Park, and Canary Wharf.
Special events: Plan your visit to attend the Brit Awards 2025, or concerts by artists like Gracie Abrams, Sabrina Carpenter, and Usher.

Recommended experiences:

{experience type="POPUP" id="27826" text="Up at The O2 Sunset Climb"}
Up at The O2 + London Eye Tickets

Insider tip: Daytime climbs offer panoramic views, but a nighttime climb allows you to see London transform as the sun sets. Watch the city lights twinkle as iconic landmarks like the Tower of London and the London Eye illuminate. The nighttime climb also offers a romantic perspective of the city.

Warner Bros. Studio Tour London

Since the release of the first film in 2001, the wizarding world of Harry Potter has influenced several generations. The Warner Bros. Studio Tour allows visitors to go through the famous sets from the film franchise.
Special events: Magical Mischief will allow you to explore the screen effects that made magic come alive in the movies.

Recommended experiences:

From London: Harry Potter™ Warner Bros Studio Tickets with Train Transfers and Optional Guided Tour
From London: Harry Potter™ Warner Bros. Studio Tickets with Day Trip to Oxford

Insider tip: Don't miss the chance to try Butterbeer, a must-have for any Harry Potter fan! While you can purchase it throughout the tour, consider enjoying a Butterbeer in the backlot cafe, while soaking in the atmosphere and imagining yourself on the Hogwarts Express.

Camden Market

Camden Market has it all, from high-end retailers to small boutiques. This big, lively market has been separated into smaller marketplaces and subdivided into numerous categories according to its size.

Special events: Plan your visit around St Patrick’s Day for a host of events and family-friendly activities.

Insider tip: Visit Camden High Street for vintage shopping, see the street art, and take a London Waterbus tour.

Day trip to Stonehenge

Standing since 3000 BCE, this cultural relic is made up of individually constructed stone blocks that each weigh close to 25 tons. It is famous for its architecture and mysterious origins, fueling theories about its use in religious ceremonies, astronomical observations, or even as a burial ground
Special events: Don’t miss the Spring Equinox on March 21 at Stonehenge and catch a glimpse of Druid and Pagan celebrations.

Recommended experiences:

From London: Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, Bath & Roman Baths Day Trip

Insider tip: Book tickets with access to the inner stone circle for a truly immersive experience. Stepping inside the circle allows you to fully appreciate the scale and grandeur of these ancient stones. While you cannot touch the stones, feel their energy, and understand the immense effort required to construct this prehistoric monument.

Stadium tours

If you are in London in March, make a point of taking a tour of Wembley Stadium, Wimbledon Arena, Emirates Stadium, or Stamford Bridge. You might even be able to get a ticket to a live game at one of these historical venues if you are lucky.
Special events: Catch an English Premier League football match at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, Stamford Bridge, or Emirates Stadium.

Recommended experiences:

Insider tip: Opt for a guided tour to learn more about the stadium and their home teams, and see memorabilia.

Top experiences & things to do in London in March

London in March highlights: Must-do experiences for families, couples, and more

Families with kids

Must-experience: Home to thousands of marine creatures, from penguins to sharks, the SEA Life London Aquarium offers interactive exhibits, feeding demonstrations, and educational talks.
Better in March: The weather is starting to warm up, making it pleasant to walk around the South Bank where the aquarium is located. Plus, March often sees the arrival of new baby animals, adding an extra element of excitement for young visitors. There are also special events and activities geared towards families, such as themed weekends, interactive talks, and character meet-and-greets.

Couples

Must-experience: Experience the magic of London from the water! Enjoy a romantic dinner cruise along the River Thames, passing iconic landmarks like the Houses of Parliament, Tower Bridge, and the London Eye.
Better in March: March offers pleasant weather for an outdoor cruise, without the summer heat. Many cruise operators offer special St. Patrick's Day cruises with Irish-themed menus and live music, creating a festive and romantic atmosphere.

Friend groups or solo travelers

Must-experience: Ascend 135 meters above the city for panoramic views of London from the London Eye! Enjoy a unique perspective of iconic landmarks, including Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, and the Tower of London.
Better in March: March provides clear skies, making it an ideal time to enjoy the ride and capture photos. You'll likely encounter shorter wait times compared to the busy summer season. March often sees special promotions and ticket deals for the London Eye, making it more affordable to enjoy the views.

Art and culture enthusiasts

Must-experience: Explore a vast collection of artifacts from around the world, spanning millions of years of human history at the British Museum. Discover ancient civilizations, explore diverse cultures, and marvel at masterpieces of art and sculpture like the Rosetta Stone and the Parthenon Sculptures.
Better in March: March often sees new exhibitions and events, making it a dynamic time to visit. You can experience fresh perspectives on art and history and potentially encounter unique displays not available year-round. In addition to exhibitions, the British Museum hosts special evening events, lectures, and workshops, offering unique opportunities to engage with art and history.

Nature lovers

Must-experience: Kew Gardens is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its diverse plant collections. Explore diverse plant collections, including the iconic Temperate House, and discover the wonders of the natural world.
Better in March: March is a wonderful time to visit as the gardens begin to bloom, showcasing a display of spring colors. The Orchid Festival typically takes place during this month, showcasing vibrant orchids from around the world. Besides, March often sees the start of other spring events at Kew Gardens, such as guided walks, plant sales, and workshops on gardening and nature.

Shopping enthusiasts

Must-experience: Indulge in a shopping spree at one of the world's most famous shopping streets – Oxford Street! Discover a vast array of shops, from high-street brands to luxury boutiques, and find everything from fashion and beauty to electronics and souvenirs.
Better in March: March often sees spring sales and new collections arriving, making it a great time for shopping deals. You can take advantage of attractive discounts and discover the latest fashion trends.

Festivals and events in London in March

Event/Festival

Description

Location

Best for

Boat Race

Annual rowing boat race between the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge

Thames River

Families, sports enthusiasts, culture lovers, thrill seekers

Head of the River Race

Annual boat race among 800+ racers

Thames River

Families, sports enthusiasts

BFI Flare

The UK’s largest queer film festival

Multiple theatres

Art and culture lovers, queer community, film enthusiasts

St. Patrick’s Day

Parade in central London and free festival in Trafalgar Square

Trafalgar Square

Art and culture enthusiasts, families, party lovers, shoppers

Affordable Art Fair

Art by thousands of original contemporary artists

Battersea

Shoppers, families, art lovers

Redbull Culture Clash

Epic battle between electronic, rap, Afro, and Caribbean music

Drumsheds

Music enthusiasts, art and culture lovers, party lovers

London in March: Your perfect 3-day itinerary

Day 1

Day 2

Day 3

Morning: Have breakfast at Alchemy Cafe and head to St. Paul's Cathedral, an Anglican cathedral designed by Sir Christopher Wren. The cathedral's majestic dome, towering 365 feet above the city, has become a symbol of London and a masterpiece of Baroque architecture.
Afternoon: Dine at Trattoria Verdi before walking to the British Museum. From Egyptian mummies and the Rosetta Stone to Greek sculptures and artifacts from across the globe, the museum offers a journey through time.
Evening: The National Gallery, founded in 1824, houses a collection of over 2,300 paintings dating from the 13th to the early 20th centuries, showcasing the evolution of Western European art. End the day with dinner at Bill’s Soho Restaurant.

Morning: Start the day early at Westminster Abbey after breakfast in the Cellarium Cafe. The abbey is the coronation church, the traditional place of burial for British monarchs, and the site of weddings and funerals for members of the British royal family and other notable figures.
Afternoon: Stop by Chez Antoinette Victoria for lunch. Next stop: Buckingham Palace! The palace is the official London residence of the British monarch. Explore the State Rooms, the Throne Room, the Ballroom, and the Royal Mews.
Evening: In the evening, catch a show at the West End, a vibrant district known for its world-famous theaters. It is home to theatrical productions, including plays, comedies, and dance performances, including long-running musicals like The Phantom of the Opera, Les Misérables, and The Lion King. Have dinner at any of the restaurants in nearby Covent Garden.

Morning: Travel to the Kew Gardens on your last day. You shouldn’t miss the Orchid Festival, an annual celebration that transforms the Princess of Wales Conservatory into a tropical paradise, showcasing thousands of exotic orchids, from phalaenopsis to dendrobiums.
Afternoon: Travel back to London. If you have time, head to the Tate Modern, one of the world’s largest museums of modern art, with a collection of more than 70,000 works.
Evening: For your last day, go on an evening ride on the London Eye, a giant Ferris wheel, that offers panoramic views of the city, including landmarks such as Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament, and the Tower of London. End the day at Black & Blue Waterloo restaurant.

Pro tips for exploring London in March

What to wear: Because the winter bite hasn't totally dissipated, the weather can be chilly. Dress in several layers of warm apparel before going out. Carry extra warm clothing in case it snows. Since rain is a common occurrence in March, bring umbrellas and weatherproof gear.
What to pack: Bring a Type G plug with you and a daypack with enough pockets to carry all of your items throughout the day.
Getting around: London's Tube is the quickest method to get about with 11 service lines divided into nine zones. Both suburban rail and fast trains connect downtown London to the suburbs, and fast trains connect London to the rest of the nation. The bus network is also huge and can get you from any part of the city to anywhere else.
Where to stay: Whether you prefer to relax in the countryside or enjoy the city's nightlife, London has a neighborhood for you. If you want to be on the go during your holiday, pick a location that is closer to the attractions. This would be especially beneficial during the month of March when the weather is still cold.
What to eat: If you truly want to get to know London, though, you must try the local cuisine. The English breakfast includes toast, sausages, eggs, mushrooms, blood pudding, mashed potatoes, and other vegetables. Have a delicious cup of cream tea with light scones or freshly prepared sandwiches. You shouldn’t leave London without enjoying duck fat fries, distinct in that they are cooked in duck fat.
Best time to visit: Early mornings are the best time to visit the most important sights like St Paul’s Cathedral, the Tower of London, and Westminster Abbey, especially on Sundays.
What to do on a budget: The best part about London is that most of its big museums like the British Museum and the National Gallery are free, perfect if you’re tight on your budget.
Spring at the gardens: Be sure to visit some of the gardens like Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens in the latter half of the month to witness the Spring blossom.
Local pubs: Spend an evening at a local pub watching live football or rugby to get the whole British experience.

Frequently Asked Questions about London in March

What are some free things to do in London in March?

Explore free attractions like the British Museum, the Natural History Museum, and Hyde Park. You can also stroll along the South Bank or visit the Columbia Road Flower Market.

Are there any day trips from London in March?

Yes! Take a trip to the Cotswolds to see charming villages, visit Oxford for its historic architecture, or head to Stonehenge to soak up ancient history.

Are there any outdoor activities to enjoy in London in March?

Yes! Enjoy a picnic in Regent’s Park, wander through the Chelsea Physic Garden, or take a boat ride along the Thames.

What’s the best time to visit London in March to avoid crowds?

Visit midweek and early in the morning to enjoy popular attractions without the crowds. Late March tends to be busier due to the spring holidays.

Are restaurants and pubs busy in March?

London’s dining scene is lively year-round. While weekends can get crowded, you’ll usually find a table at most places during the week.

Can I find spring blooms in London in March?

Yes, March is when London’s gardens and parks begin to bloom. Head to Kew Gardens, St. James’s Park, or Greenwich Park for stunning floral displays.

Is it easy to find budget-friendly accommodations in London in March?

March is not peak tourist season, so you’ll likely find good deals on accommodations, especially if you book early.

What are some off-the-beaten-path attractions in London for March?

Check out Leighton House Museum, explore the canals of Little Venice, or visit God’s Own Junkyard for a quirky experience.

Are there any special offers or discounts on attractions in London in March?

Many attractions offer spring deals or early-bird discounts, especially if you book online. Consider a London Pass for bundled savings.

Are London markets open in March?

Yes, London’s markets like Borough Market, Camden Market, and Portobello Road are open and offer delicious food, unique goods, and lively atmospheres.

What’s the vibe in London during March weekends?

Weekends are lively, with locals and tourists enjoying parks, markets, and pubs. It’s a great time to experience the city’s vibrant culture.

What’s the best way to explore London’s neighborhoods in March?

Walking tours are ideal in March. Explore neighborhoods like Notting Hill, Shoreditch, or Greenwich to discover their unique charm.