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A guide to visiting London in January | Attractions, events, visitor information & more

London is the United Kingdom's capital and largest metropolis, with a diverse range of attractions ranging from old to ultra-modern. Whatever you're looking for in terms of art, fashion, food, or music, London will incorporate it into its vibrant metropolis, even in the frigid month of January. Here is a complete guide to visiting London in January.

Is January a good time to visit London?

After a frantic December, London in January witnesses a slew of major commercial arcades open, and the weather cooperates by remaining pleasant.

Why you should visit

The number of tourists in London in January is quite low, making it a good time for freewheeling travel.
Due to the drop in the number of tourists, the flight and hotel rates are relatively lower in London in January.
There are a few events sprinkled across January in London that can be enjoyed if you visit London this month.
Despite the chill, London in January is enjoyable due to the tranquility and the numerous pop-up markets across the city.

What to look out for

London in January is often bitterly cold, which means your stay could be uncomfortable if you are not well prepared.
There are several rainy and snowy days in London in January, which could lead to unforeseen cancelation of plans.
London in January is known for its shorter days, giving you a shorter window to begin and finish sightseeing.
Some attractions may be closed in London in January due to adverse weather conditions, affecting your itinerary.

Overview of weather in London in January

London in January is chilly and damp, with winter still ongoing. Snow isn't common, although it does happen now and then. The days are shorter than the nights and there are quite a few overcast days.

Average temperature: High 9ºC; Low 4ºC

Average rainfall: 52mm

Daily wind speed: 29.8 kph from the west

Average daylight hours: 8-9 hours

Best time to visit London

More about the weather in London in January

January is characterized by chilly temperatures and a winter atmosphere in London, with temperatures ranging from 2.1ºC to 7.3ºC. Snowing is common this month, on an average of 2-3 days this month. For these reasons, you will see a dramatically less tourist crowd in London in January.

How hot is London in January?
London is not at all warm in January. Winter is in full swing, and the average high temperature is about 7ºC, while the average low is about 2ºC.

Does it rain in London in January?
The chances of rainfall are high for over 15 days in London in January. Cloud cover is lower than in December, so you will have clear skies for about half the days in January. Snow is highly unlikely in January.

Is London windy in January?
There is a constant moderate wind current throughout January in London, with speeds reaching 9.9 to 18.5 miles an hour.

12 best things to do in London in January

1. London Eye

Landmark

The London Eye, a 135-meter-high spinning observation wheel, offers spectacular 360-degree views of the city. Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, and Buckingham Palace are among the capital's most famous monuments and top attractions that can be seen from the London Eye on a clear day in January.

January timings: Monday to Friday 11am to 6pm; Saturday to Sunday 10am to 8:30pm and last entry is 45 minutes before closing time

London Eye tickets

2. Tower Bridge

Landmark

Because of its neo-Gothic style and elevating central parts, Tower Bridge is known as London's most spectacular bridge. It was the world's most advanced bascule bridge when it first opened. Often mistaken as the London Bridge, visiting Tower Bridge in January will serve you well because of the low tourist volume.

January timings: Daily from 9:30am to 6pm with last entry at 5pm

Tower Bridge tickets

3. Kew Gardens

Landmark

The Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew, established in 1840, is one of the world's richest botanical gardens, housing the world's biggest and most comprehensive botanical and mycological treasures. In January, Kew Gardens, a lovely sanctuary less than 30 minutes from central London, is well worth a visit owing to its tranquil beauty.

January timings: Monday to Friday 10am to 7pm; weekends and bank holidays 10am to 8pm with last entry 1 hour before closing time

Kew Gardens tickets

4. St Paul Cathedral

Landmark | Religious Site

St Paul's Cathedral is the seat of the Anglican Episcopal See in London and has consequently played a significant role in several notable cultural and religious events, including the memorials of Lord Nelson and Winston Churchill, as well as the wedding of Prince Charles and Diana Spencer. It is one of the must-see sights in London in January.

January timings: Mondays to Saturdays 8:30am to 4pm (Wednesday 10am to 4pm)

St Paul's Cathedral tickets

5. SEA Life London Aquarium

Family-friendly

At SEA Life London, you'll take a glass Ocean Tunnel, walk into the water, see the Seahorse Kingdom, spot piranhas, and crocodiles in the Rainforest Adventure, and test your courage on the Shark Walk as sharks swim beneath you. January is a great time to visit the SEA Life London Aquarium as you can take your time to explore the different zones of the place.

January timings: Daily 10am to 6pm

SEA Life London Aquarium tickets

6. The Art of Banksy London

Museum

The Art of Banksy houses the world's greatest private collection of Banksy art. Original and genuine works related to, possibly, the most intriguing and talked-about artist in contemporary history are featured in this internationally acclaimed exhibition. Take the opportunity to visit The Art of Banksy London while the exhibition is still ongoing.

January timings: Monday to Friday: 11am to 9pm; Saturday: 10am to 9pm; Sunday: 10am to 8pm with last admission 1 hour before closing

Art of Banksy tickets

7. London Theater

Landmark

If you are visiting London in January, don’t forget to spend some of your time experiencing the grandeur of the London Theater. Known for its art, culture, and media scene, London is a great place to witness some of the best works of performance art like The Lion King, Phantom of the Opera, and Hamilton, especially in January when the theaters can provide you with some respite from the weather.

London Theater tickets

8. Up At The O2

Landmark

Take a thrilling outdoor climb to the top of the world-famous roof and take in the breathtaking views of London. To see a different aspect of London, choose from Daytime, Sunset, or Twilight Climbs. A 360-degree view of Historic Greenwich, Olympic Park, and Canary Wharf is available. The climb could be grueling in January but the view would be worth it.

January timings: 10am to 6:30pm

Up at The O2 tickets

9. Westminster Abbey

Landmark

The history of Westminster Abbey may be traced back to the development of early Gothic architecture, which can still be seen today. The abbey recounts a rich history of its regal past, in addition to being a significant Catholic pilgrimage site. It has hosted several royal marriages, coronations, and funerals over the years and is a great place to visit on a clear day in January.

January timings: Monday to Friday 9:30am - 3:30pm; Saturday 9am to 3pm

Westminster Abbey tickets

10. The View From The Shard

Landmark

The distinctive glass edifice that soars into the London skyline offers breathtaking views of the city. Whether you stop by for breakfast or a drink at one of the Shard's eateries, or simply to take in the view from the observatory, a visit to the Shard is an unforgettable experience. In January, you would be able to enjoy the View from The Shard without having to brave the tourist crowd.

January timings: Wednesdays to Sundays 11am to 7pm (Saturday 10am to 8pm)

The Shard tickets

11. Thames River Cruises

Cruises | Leisure

Take a spectacular Thames River cruise to get a unique perspective on the city's iconic landmarks. The finest way to see London is from the comfort of a cruise boat, which has lower and upper decks as well as expansive windows for an amazing view. In January, the Thames River Cruise is a great offbeat experience that you will recount for ages.

Thames River cruise tickets

12. Buckingham Palace

Landmark

Buckingham Palace is a royal home in London and the administrative center of the United Kingdom's monarchy. The palace has been open to the public during the summer months since 1993. Visitors can stroll through 19 exquisite State Rooms, which are utilized for official banquets and ceremonial ceremonies throughout the year.

January timings: 11am to 4:30pm

Buckingham Palace tickets

Top experiences & things to do in London in January

Festivals in London in January

New Year’s Day Parade

Venue: Piccadilly

Dates: January 1, 12 noon

The New Year's Parade, which takes place on New Year's Day in London, is one of the events that exemplifies this. If you are in London on New Year's Day, this Parade is a must-see. The Parade takes place at Noon and attracts around 10,000 artists from all over the world, not just from the United Kingdom. The Parade makes you feel like you're a member of the Royal Family.

New Year’s fireworks

Venue: Westminster

Dates: December 31 to January 1

Nothing beats fireworks to kick off the new year. This is something you should be aware of as the new year begins. The multiple-colored sky on New Year's Eve appears to be God showering us with many colored blessings. The majority of the area is illuminated with lights, which can be seen reflected in the river nearby.

Events in London in January

Hogwarts in Snow at Warner Bros Studios

Venue: Warner Bros. Studios London
Dates: Mid-November to mid-January

Give your favorite Wizarding School a festive makeover and watch it change into a winter wonderland. Apart from the Christmas feast, the stage for the legendary Yule Ball will be dressed up with silver icicles and sparkling snow. In January, head to Warner Bros Studios and live your dream.

Warner Bros Harry Potter Studio tickets

Southbank Center Wintertime Festival

Venue: The Queen's Walk, London SE1 8XX, United Kingdom
Dates: Early November to early January

On a cold, dreary day, few sites in London are as gorgeous as the Southbank. During January, this location is wonderfully decorated, and the riverbank bars provide drinks to warm you up to make it even more appealing. You can also purchase crafts and winter goods from the chalets. This festival is only held during the winter months and should be visited if you're seeking a good time.

About Southbank Center Wintertime Festival

Burns Night

Venue: Richmond Athletic Ground
Date: January 25

Eat, drink, and dance to celebrate the life and work of Scotland’s national bard on Burns Night in London. Many London restaurants and bars hold Burns Night events, serving up suppers of haggis and tatties with a wee dram of Scottish whisky. More elaborate London Burns Night celebrations also include poetry readings, toasts, and bagpipe music, before everyone joins in the ceilidh dancing.

Know before you visit London in January

Travel essentials

What to wear

What to pack

Transport

Stay

Food

Time zone: GMT

Currency: Great British Pound Sterling GBP - £

Country code: +44

Emergency numbers: 111 or 999

Since January is a winter month in London, the weather can be frigid. You will need to wear several layers of warm clothing before heading out.
Carry enough spare warm clothes as it snows in London in January and your clothes may get soiled.
Bring umbrellas and waterproof clothing as rain is quite common in London in January.

A type G plug (three rectangular pins in a triangular pattern) must be carried when you are visiting London.
London in January is usually very cold, so you must carry a lot of warm clothes and protection for all parts of the body.
Comfortable shoes are requisite if you plan to do some walking through London.
An umbrella for the rain is also a necessity as the weather in London is almost always rainy.
A daypack with enough pockets for all of your items to be carried around during the day should also be packed.

By metro: London's Underground subway system is the quickest method to get about. On the Tube, there are eleven lines divided into nine zones. The London Tube is open from 5am to midnight Monday to Saturday.

By black cabs: These taxis are readily available throughout central London, as well as at major train stations, bus stops, and Heathrow Airport. When hailing a car, make sure the yellow "taxi" light at the front of the cab is turned on.

By train: Both suburban rail and fast trains connect downtown London to the suburbs, and fast trains connect London to the rest of the nation. There are also regular rail connections to Heathrow, Gatwick, and Stanstead, London's three major airports.

By bus: The London bus network is huge. It can get you from any part of the city to anywhere else and is the most preferred way of traveling in London.

There is a neighborhood in London for everyone, whether you want to enjoy the nightlife or simply relax in the countryside. If you want to be on the go during your stay, choose a location that is closer to convenience.

Budget hotels: Premier Inn London Woolwich (Royal Arsenal) Hotel (from £42), Premier Inn London Putney Bridge Hotel (from £45), The Walrus Bar & Hostel (from £59)

Mid-range hotels: The Z Hotel Victoria (from £80), Marlin Waterloo (from £123), The Belgrave (from £137)

Luxury hotels: Premier Inn London Holborn Hotel (from £152), Kimpton Fitzroy London Hotel (from £246), The Ned London (from £283)

If you truly want to know London, you must try the local dishes and favorites. Here are a few of the ones that you must try in January:

Fish and chips: Fish and chips are a must-try when visiting London. Apart from tea, this is the meal that shapes global perceptions of British food.

Yorkshire pudding with roast: This British favorite is often served at lunch and is fairly filling. In the oven, an egg and flour batter is baked, then softened with gravy. After that, it's served with roast beef, turkey, or ham.

Sausage roll: A sausage roll in London is undoubtedly a favorite go-to dish for many. It's brown, light, and delightfully flaky.

Oysters: Oysters are a year-round treat in London, and many people consider them to be a premium item. Oysters are a mild delicacy that can be served with lemon juice and brown toast.

Hacks & tips to visit London in January

Don’t skimp on the layers, carry as many warm clothes as you possibly can.
Expect rain and snow and be prepared to stay in when that happens.
Carry waterproof clothing and shoes if you plan to do a lot of sightseeing.
Enjoy an evening of watching live football or rugby at a local pub to get a complete British experience.
Head to the pop-up markets in January and purchase some of the fresh produce on sale.
Sketch up an itinerary well before your trip and choose a stay accordingly for your convenience.
Look for discounted hotel and flight deals as January doesn’t usually see high tourist traffic.

Explore London through the year

Frequently Asked Questions about visiting London in January

What are the best things to do in London in January?

The best things to do in London in January include visiting top attractions such as the Tower of London, the London Eye, and Kew Gardens among many others. You can also go on a Thames river cruise, visit museums, or go on a day trip while visiting London in January.

Is London cold in January?

Yes, London is quite cold in January. The average temperature range is: High 9ºC Low 4ºC

Is it rainy?

Yes, London in January is quite rainy.

What clothes should I wear?

You will need to wear several layers of warm clothing in London in January.

Is London expensive to visit?

Yes, London is a bit expensive to visit. But if you book your London attractions tickets online, in advance, you will have the chance to save a lot with great deals and discounts.

How safe is London?

London is quite safe in general.

What are the major events in London in January?

The major events in London in January include the Southbank Centre Wintertime Festival, Hogwarts in Snow at Warner Bros Studios, and Burns Night.

What are the main festivals in London in January?

The festivals in London in January are New Year’s Day Parade and New Year’s Fireworks.

What are the best things to do with kids in London in January?

Kids will enjoy visiting the SEA Life London Aquarium and going to the Harry Potter Tour at Warner Bros. Studios.