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London in February | A tailor-made guide just for you

February in London is like a surprise love letter—chilly mornings, dreamy sunsets, and just a hint of romance in the air. From romantic dinners to quirky biscuit icing workshops at Biscuiteers, lovebirds (and even singles!) have plenty to swoon over. Add in the glamour of London Fashion Week, cultural gems, and winter-perfect weather, and it's a total vibe. So, whether you're hunting for romance, adventure, or just a good excuse to wear your coziest scarf, this city's got February nailed.

London in February at a glance

london in February

London in winter: How February compares

Want a quieter London? February's slightly warmer than January, with less hustle, lower costs, and plenty of romantic vibes and fashionable flair.

Category
January
February
March
Weather
Averaging 2°C to 9°C; warm coat and gloves.
Averaging 7°C to 8°C; warm layers and waterproof outfit for rain.
Averaging 8°C to 12°C; lightweight jackets, warm sweaters, and shawls for unpredictable weather.
Crowds
Moderate—post-holiday crowds thin out, making it perfect for exploring without the long queues.
Low to moderate—fewer tourists mean a more laid-back and relaxed sightseeing experience.
Low to moderate—March offers the perfect chance for sightseeing and outdoor adventures as spring starts to make its debut.
Best for
Budget travelers who enjoy winter festivities with fewer crowds.
Romantic explorers, fashion lovers, or those chasing the Formula 1 excitement.
Nature-loving families and budget travelers seeking cultural experiences will find plenty to enjoy.
What to book early
New Year's Day Parade, London Short Film Festival, London Art Fair, Canary Wharf Winter Lights.
Kew Orchid Festival, Candlelight Concerts, Lunar New Year celebrations in Soho and Chinatown, Lightopia Festival.
St David's Day Celebrations, London Comic Con, International Women's Day Events, St Patrick's Day Festival, The Boat Race, and Mother's Day Dining Experiences.
Budget
Moderate—prices drop after the holidays, making it a great budget-friendly time to travel.
Generally affordable, except around Valentine's Day; lower prices for accommodations and flights available.
Affordable for budget travelers—bus fares remain the same, and accommodation prices are still reasonable with fewer visitors, despite a minor rise in transport fares.
London in February - London Eye

London Eye

Buckle up for the ride of your life! The London Eye, or Millennium Wheel, is your 135-meter-high ticket to stunning 360° views. With 32 glass capsules, it's like a flying VIP tour of Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and more—all in just 30 minutes. Don't blink—you won't want to miss a thing!

Special event: Champagne Experience around Valentine's Day

Insider tip for couples: Ride the London Eye at sunset for magical views of a twinkling city. If you are planning to pop the question, add live music or custom touches for a truly special moment!

Recommended experiences: 

  • London Eye Fast-Tract Tickets
  • London Eye Champagne Experience
london in February - Thames River Cruise

Thames River Cruise

Cruise along the Thames and watch London's famous landmarks glide by! Choose from a laid-back sightseeing tour or a glamorous dining cruise for an extra memorable experience. With live commentary enhancing the journey, you'll enjoy stunning views of Big Ben, Tower Bridge, and the London Eye from the water!

Special event: Valentine's Day special cruises

Insider tip for couples: For maximum romance, grab a spot by the window! You'll have unobstructed views of the iconic skyline, plus plenty of room to hold hands.

Recommended experiences: 

  • Thames River Dinner Cruise with a Welcome Drink and Live Entertainment
  • London Sightseeing Cruise
london in February - West End Theatre

West End London Theatre

The West End: where iconic shows like Les Misérables and Wicked bring theatre dreams to life! With 40+ venues, this cultural hotspot has entertained audiences for over 350 years. Whether you're into musicals, plays, or contemporary dramas, Theatreland offers an unforgettable experience, all within the heart of London's dazzling streets.

Special events: Birdsong, Clueless: The Musical, and Richard II 

Insider tip for couples: For the best experience, grab seats in the center of the stalls or circle—perfect views, maximum drama!

Recommended experiences: 

  • Moulin Rouge! The Musical
  • Mamma Mia!
london in February - The Shard

The Shard

The Shard isn't just tall; it's a sleek, 310-meter beacon of modern architecture! Standing proudly in Southwark, it has 72 floors, including offices, luxury residences, and the Shangri-La Hotel. Head to the observation deck for sweeping 360-degree views, where every glance is more Instagrammable than the last!

Special event: Valentine's Day Experience at Shangri-La's TING Restaurant

Insider tip for couples: Why not skip the observation deck and head to AquaShard on Level 31 instead? Sip on cocktails while soaking in epic views—no entry fee is required!

Recommended experiences: 

  • The View from The Shard Tickets in London
  • The View from The Shard Tickets with Champagne
london in February - The O2

The O2

Once the Millennium Dome, now The O2—London's entertainment juggernaut! It's one of Europe's largest music venues, hosting 20,000-strong crowds for concerts, sports, and exhibitions. When the show's over, stroll through its entertainment district with lively bars, restaurants, and activities. 

Special events: Bullet For My Valentine & Trivium, Snow Patrol, Pitbull: Party After Dark Tour 

Insider tip for couples: Hop on the Thames cruise boat to glide your way to The O2—it's the scenic, romantic route that skips the traffic and crowds.

Recommended experiences:

  • Up At The O2 Tickets
  • Up at The O2 Sunset Climb
London in February - Kew Gardens

Kew Gardens

Seeking a refreshing outdoor retreat? Kew Gardens has over 27,000 plants and 8.5 million preserved specimens, making it a botanical wonderland! From the iconic Palm House to the towering Great Pagoda, it's a UNESCO World Heritage gem. Plus, it's a hub for plant research, so you'll leave feeling smarter and greener.

Special event: Orchid Festival

Insider tip for couples: Grab the latest themed trail guides from the official website, like the First Date trail, which meanders through romantic gems like the Rose Garden and Love Lane—ideal for a relaxed, love-filled wander!

Recommended experience:

  • Kew Gardens Admission Ticket

Plan ahead: Must-book London experiences for February

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Festivals and events in London this February

Event/Festival
Description
Where
When
Best for
Orchids Festival
Vibrant orchid displays with Peru-themed blooms, alpacas, and flamingos
Kew Gardens
February 1, 2025 - March 2, 2025
Nature enthusiasts and couples
Lenny Kravitz – Blue Electric Light Tour
The rock star's only UK concert during the European tour
Wembley Arena
February 8, 2025
Music lovers
Chinese New Year Celebrations
Parades, performances, and food stalls
Chinatown and Trafalgar Square
January 29, 2025 - February 10, 2025
Heritage seekers, Asian communities, and families
Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience
An immersive event presenting Van Gogh's art
Commercial Street 106
January 29, 2025 - February 16, 2025
Art buffs and solo travelers
Imagine Children's Festival
Activities, workshops, and performances for young kids
Southbank Centre
February 7-17, 2025
Families with young kids
London Fashion Week
Event showcasing top designers' works
Multiple venues including Somerset House
February 20-24, 2025
Couture fans
The Mousetrap
Agatha Christie's famous play is the longest-running show in the world.
St Martin's Theatre
February 1-25, 2025
Stage fans and people who love quintessential whodunit dramas

London in February: Your perfect 3-day itinerary

Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
london in February - Borough Market

Morning:

  • First stop: The Shard!

Start your day on a high (literally!) with a visit to The Shard. Enjoy coffee, a breeze on the 72nd floor, and London laid out beneath you. Spend 1-2 hours and start your day right! 

  • Followed by: Borough Market

The food stalls here are like heaven on Earth. Whether you're into gooey cheese toasties or fresh oysters, there's something to tempt every taste bud. Get a quick bite for lunch and wander the cobbled streets.

Afternoon:

  • Up next: The Tate Modern

Pop into The Tate Modern and let your eyes feast on contemporary art that’ll have you saying, “This is what the future looks like!” Whether it's abstract or political, it's a total mind-bender. 

  • Then: Covent Garden

Walk around Covent Garden for quirky shops, street performers, and a whole lot of charm. If you're lucky, you'll catch some live music or a surprise performance. 

Evening:

  • Wrap the day with: Dinner at Dishoom

End your day with a cozy, mouthwatering dinner at Dishoom. Think Bombay-inspired Indian cuisine, spicy curries, and that cheeky cocktail you didn't know you needed. 

  • Bonus: A Silent Disco at the Natural History Museum!

Post-dinner plans? A silent disco at the Natural History Museum under the blue whale. Who cares if you're there to dance or soak in the quirky vibe? Just shake that travel fatigue!

london in February - Frameless

Morning:

  • First stop: Breakfast at Sketch

Kick off your day with breakfast at Sketch. This quirky, artsy spot is as much about the vibe as it is about the food. Think eggs, croissants, and maybe a little sprinkle of "this is what breakfast in art heaven looks like."

  • Followed by: The Victoria & Albert Museum

Get your culture fix at the Victoria & Albert Museum. From fashion to fine art to an extraordinary collection of historical stuff, it's the kind of place that makes you feel like you're on the coolest museum tour ever. 

Afternoon:

  • Up next: A stroll through Hyde Park

In winter, it's all crisp air and quiet paths. Maybe you'll even see some swans gliding by—so serene, you won't believe you're in the heart of a bustling city. Once you're done, fuel up at Osteria Romana or Serpentine Bar & Kitchen—your perfect post-park pit stop.

  • Then: Frameless

After your park visit, stop by Frameless, where art doesn't just sit pretty on walls but practically swallows you whole. Get ready for some seriously trippy visuals and a camera roll full of epic moments!

Evening:

  • Wrap the day with: Dinner at The Ledbury

This Michelin-starred spot serves modern British cuisine that'll make you feel like a food connoisseur—just try not to get tongue-tied over those fancy names!

  • Bonus: West End Theatre Show

Wrap up your evening with a West End show. Whether it's The Lion King, Wicked, or something offbeat, it's an experience you'll never forget. You'll leave singing show tunes for days, guaranteed.

london in February - Madame Tussauds London

Morning:

  • First stop: The London Eye

Get your day started with panoramic views from the London Eye. It's like a giant, slow-moving selfie with London—perfect for getting those Insta shots of Big Ben, Tower Bridge, and more.

  • Followed by: SEA LIFE London

Swap heights for depths after soaking in London's skyline. Head over to SEA LIFE London and meet some slippery friends—sharks, penguins, and maybe a mermaid, if you're lucky!

Afternoon:

  • Up next: Lunch on Thames Lunch Cruise

Hop on a Thames lunch cruise and enjoy a scenic, relaxing meal while cruising past London's most famous landmarks. Imagine eating, sipping on something delicious, and taking in views of Tower Bridge, St. Paul's, and the Shard. Talk about multi-tasking!

  • Then: Tower Bridge

After lunch, walk across the iconic Tower Bridge. The views are incredible, and the exhibition inside will make you feel like a real London explorer.

Evening:

  • Wrap the day with: Dinner at The O2

End your day with dinner at The O2. Whether you're craving sushi, pizza, or something more fancy, there's something here for everyone.

  • Bonus: Madame Tussauds

Wrap up your adventure by striking a pose with the stars at Madame Tussauds. You might not meet Beyoncé in person, but you can still snap a selfie with her wax figure!

Pro tips for exploring London during February

  • Feeling brave? Try the Hot Sauce Festival: Spicy lovers, Camden's Hot Sauce Festival on February 1 is your moment! Fire up your tastebuds with food challenges and bold tastings.
  • Flip out at a Pancake Race: It's race time! Grab your spatula and join the Pancake Day fun on February 13. Flip, run, and laugh your way through the city's pancake races!
  • Get your bookish fix with the London Bookshop Crawl: Mark your calendar for February 16-18! Hop between London's most fabulous independent bookshops and find your next read while supporting local businesses. 
  • Ice skating, no matter the weather: Need an ice break? The Canary Wharf Ice Rink is perfect for skating—rain or shine! Don't miss out; it's open until February 24.
  • Strut through history on a queer tour: Get your glam on for a one-of-a-kind free guided tour at the National Portrait Gallery! Led by drag artists, explore LGBTQ+ history through vibrant art. It's history, but make it fabulous.
  • Cozy up at a pop-up bar: From themed cocktails to cozy dining, pop-up bars and restaurants serve winter magic. Catch them before they disappear!
  • Discover hidden music gems: On the lookout for fresh sounds? Check out venues like The Lexington or The Old Blue Last for intimate gigs from up-and-coming artists. It's where the magic happens!
  • Chill out at a rooftop cinema: Catch a classic movie under the stars (with a blanket, of course). Check out pop-up rooftop cinemas still running in February. Perfect for cozy vibes and hot drinks!

London in February: Frequently Asked Questions

Is London still festive in February?

Absolutely! February in London is full of energy with exciting events like the Chinese New Year celebrations, the glamorous London Fashion Week, and various other cultural festivals.

What are some cool ways to get a bird's-eye view of London during February?

Why not soar above the city in a hot air balloon for stunning panoramic views? Or, check out one of the rooftop bars still open during winter for a drink with a view!

What LGBT+ events can I check out in February?

February is LGBT+ History Month, so get ready for a month packed with vibrant events, from educational talks to celebratory gatherings happening all over London!

How can I enjoy London's parks in February?

Take a stroll through wintery parks like Hampstead Heath or Richmond Park. You'll enjoy peaceful walks and might even spot some wildlife, all without the summer crowds!

What's the best way to get around London in February?

Hop on the Tube for fast travel, download Citymapper for real-time updates, and keep an eye on bus schedules posted at stops to stay on track!

What can I do if I'm not a fan of the cold but still want to explore?

Visit indoor markets like Borough Market (indulge in warm comfort food) or experience immersive art at Frameless, where the artwork will surround you—no freezing temperatures allowed!

Are there any fun things to do for Valentine's Day besides dinner?

Why settle for dinner? Try a romantic ride on the London Eye, a quirky pop-up bar, or cozy up at a rooftop cinema!

What's the secret to surviving London's chilly February weather?

Bundle up, grab a cozy coat, and don't forget an umbrella—London's mood swings between chilly winds and surprise rain showers!

How do I keep my feet warm while exploring London in February?

Invest in some chic waterproof boots! You'll thank us when you're splashing through puddles and still looking fabulous.