Visiting London in January is a wonderful time for a trip to London, as the city remains beautifully adorned with winter decorations, and the festive charm is carried into the New Year.
January marks the heart of winter in the UK, with cold weather, rain showers, and sometimes snow. However, despite the frosty weather, there is plenty to see and do in London during January.
🎟️ Best Things to Do in London | Tickets
🎡 London Eye Entry Ticket | Must-Do
All of these links open in a new tab. They are incredibly useful for your London trip in January.
💡 Please note that this London outfit guide is huge and covers everything in detail. Make sure to check out every section, including my personal experiences at the end:
- January Weather Overview
- Essential Clothing Items
- Outfit and Packing Guide
- Outfits From Early to Late January
- Personal Experiences and Tips
As a Londoner who loves January, I will share with you everything you need to know about the weather in London, with tips on what to pack for your trip.
Jacket Quick Tip | Essential
- Waterproof Windproof Snow Ski Jacket, also can fights bad rainy or misty weather, Keep your body always dry and...
- This women's warm down coats has a removable hood and hood hair,giving you more options for your winter ensemble
A warm winter coat is essential in January. More jacket advice and other outfit tips later!
Weather Overview
January is the heart of winter in London, bringing chilly weather and the possibility of snow. It’s a month where the temperatures are often at their lowest, and while a picturesque snowy landscape isn’t guaranteed, January is when London is most likely to see snow compared to other months.
The temperatures in January are cold, with daily temperatures around 8°C (46°F) or below. You’ll experience a mix of frosty mornings, rainy days, and occasional dry spells, and as the new year begins, London experiences some of its coldest weather.
On average, January sees about 11 rainy days and drifts of snow which can range from light to moderate.
Despite the chill, there’s a certain charm to bundling up in your warmest clothes, putting on coats, scarves, hats, and gloves, and exploring London’s winter offerings. From cosy pubs with roaring fireplaces to the city’s iconic landmarks set against a crisp winter sky.
The average high temperatures during January typically reach 8°C (46°F), with lows around 3°C (37°F). However, these can fluctuate slightly depending on when you visit during the month:
- Early January: 8°C (46°F)
- Mid-January: 7°C (45°F)
- Late January: 6°C (43°F)
Rain
Rainfall is quite common in January, with the chance of rain slightly increasing as the month progresses. The likelihood of precipitation starts at around 31% at the beginning of January and climbs to about 34% towards the end. Therefore, packing waterproof clothing and planning for indoor activities on rainy days is advisable if you prefer to stay dry.
Colder Times
As a tourist in January, you will need to dress warmly throughout the day, especially in the early mornings and evenings, when temperatures can be chilly. A thick coat, along with hats and scarves, is essential to stay comfortable while outdoor sightseeing.
In the afternoon, as the temperature slightly increases, you might find it possible to remove a layer.
Typical daily temperature progression during a day in mid-January:
- Early Morning: 3°C (37°F)
- Morning: 7°C (45°F)
- Afternoon: 8°C (46°F)
- Evening: 4°C (39°F)
Tip: If you tend to feel cold easily, walking briskly around London and using the Underground (where it’s typically warmer) can help you maintain a comfortable body temperature.
Tip: To stay warm during January wrap up with insulated gloves and a cosy scarf. Exploring the city briskly on foot will keep you warm, with plenty of stops for hot cocoa and browsing London’s boutique stores.
Chances of Snow
While snow is more likely in January than in December, it is still not a frequent occurrence, with London experiencing mild weather in January. Snowfalls are usually light and do not last long, often melting quickly. However, when it does snow, the city transforms into a beautiful winter wonderland.
Although snowfall in London is light, snow-dusted London’s iconic landmarks in January 2024, lasting a few days with a drop in the temperature to freezing.
While snow is more likely in January than in December, it is still not a frequent occurrence. Snowfalls are usually light and do not last long, often melting quickly.
However, when it does snow, the city transforms into a beautiful winter wonderland. The last significant snowfall in January was in 2013, so it remains a possibility for those hoping for a snowy experience.
Packing and Outfit Tips | Overview
January in London carries much of the same chill as December, so packing warm layers is essential. The winter air can be frosty, especially with the wind chills, so layers will become your best friend.
Consider bringing a mix of thermal tops and cosy sweaters, which can easily be adjusted as you move between the outdoors and the overheated public transport. A good-quality winter coat is a must, preferably one that is windproof and water-resistant, as January can also be wet.
💡Don’t forget hats, scarves and gloves to protect you from the chilly wind in January. You will definitely need them.
Visitor opinion: Although it is cold the weather in London during January isn’t freezing. Bring plenty of layers and winter accessories – like gloves, a hat and a scarf – you may not need all of those things all of the time but they would be sensible things to have with you for being outside in January.
Styles: Londoners still dress stylishly even in the cold. Expect to see trendy puffer coats, leather ankle boots, and smart jeans when exploring the city during the day.
In the evening Londoners will make more effort to stay both warm and stylish with brushed wool coats, dresses and knee-high boots. Men keep the cold away with blazer jackets or wool coats, layered over sweaters with dark jeans and leather dress boots.
Dressing in London is mostly about practicality and comfort when it’s cold. Coats may look stylish yet are made of fabrics such as wool and leather to keep people snug in the cold weather.
Click here for the latest winter outfits on Amazon!
London is a sartorially diverse place to visit. People can wear what they want and their style will be accepted throughout London. However, to get the most out of your trip ensure your winter essentials for well and are comfortable. Inject your fashion sense into winter outfits with unusual hats, patterned scarves and funky footwear.
Bag Tip
During the day backpacks or large shoulder bags are the norm to carry everything you need for a day of sightseeing. However, at night leave the backpack at home and just take the essentials in a smaller purse or smart leather shoulder bag.
Tip: London is one of the world’s hot spots where tourists are getting pickpocketed! That’s why we highly recommend a bag with anti-theft features (see our two tips above!).
Packing list
- Long-sleeve T-shirts
- Thermal base layers/vests
- Sweaters/jumpers
- Long-sleeve shirts
- Thick rainproof coat
- Jeans/trousers
- Warm socks
- Waterproof trainers
- Sturdy walking boots
- Long-sleeve dresses
- Thermal tights
- Umbrella
- Backpack or shoulder bag
- Warm hat, gloves, scarf
- Hand sanitiser
- Antibacterial wipes
- Tissues
- UK travel adapter (3-pin plug)
Essential Clothing Items
Warm Coat
- Waterproof Windproof Snow Ski Jacket, also can fights bad rainy or misty weather, Keep your body always dry and...
- This women's warm down coats has a removable hood and hood hair,giving you more options for your winter ensemble
With average temperatures in London expected to be 6-8°C (43-47°F) in January, a warm coat is essential. January can be cold and wet in London, so choose a rainproof coat, preferably with a hood.
Long black puffer coats are popular in London during winter. Puffer coats are warm and a longer-length style will shield you from wet weather, whereas a shorter style is ideal if you plan to hop on and off public transport.
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Temperatures are colder than in December, however, weather below freezing is less common. If your coat is warm and toasty you may only need a light-weather or thermal long-sleeved T-shirt underneath.
A wool coat is another stylish option for a trip to London in January. Wool pea coats or wool trench coats paired with hats and scarves create a stylish appearance which also keeps warm and toasty during a January in London.
Jeans
- Womens Winter Jeans Thermal Pants Warm Cloth Wear : Thick Velvet Lining Makes This Jeggings Cozy Thermal in Chilly...
- Inseam of the womens jeans: 31"; this pair of jeans has high waisted design which can visually elongate the legs,...
Jeans are a London essential and offer multiple outfit variations. If you are looking for a smart casual appearance during your trip to London a dark straight leg jean is ideal for January.
You don’t need to worry too much about the dress code when exploring London as jeans are accepted at restaurants, museums, theatres and many attractions. The exception would be nightclubs or high-end establishments such as The Ritz which do not permit entry wearing jeans.
Trousers
- 💗 Material: High quality fabric, soft, breathable and durable enough for your daily wearing. Not too thin or see...
- A new twist on corduroy for fall and winter: meet GRAPENT womens business casual pants. Finished in a cozy corduroy...
Trousers of every style can be found in London and offer a smarter option instead of jeans. Smart tailored trousers in dark colours are perfect for a more formal environment such as a night at the theatre or dinner at a cosy restaurant.
Smart trousers look great paired with boots for men and a heel for women, and are ideal for keeping warm on a night out in London.
Leggings
- [Size Reminder]: If you are wondering whether to choose a size up or regular one, we suggest going for regular....
- 【Fleece Lining Interior】With a super soft thermal thick fleece interior, GAYHAY women’s Leggings for cold...
Leggings are a popular choice for women during the winter months, often worn in dark hues without logos or graphics to maintain a chic yet casual look.
Women, as well as children, frequently pair black leggings with oversized jumpers and long coats for a warm yet comfortable style during the day. Leather-effect or coated leggings are also a fashionable choice during winter in London.
Sneakers
- Water Resistant Design:Say goodbye to worries about water splashes.Our product features advanced water-resistant...
- Mesh upper: Improves breathability
Sneakers are a popular day-to-day footwear choice in London. However, during January you can expect rain showers so trainers need to be waterproof and warm.
💡 Choose a pair of trainers that have a thicker sole to elevate your foot away from puddles and choose a style that offers warmth and insulation. See our tips above
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Smart dress sneakers are an ideal footwear choice in London as they are comfortable to wear during the day yet smart enough to transition to going out in the evening.
💡Many places in London are very casual on dress code with sneakers and jeans accepted in most restaurants and theatres. However, in certain settings, a more formal dress code is the norm. Nightclubs, bars and high-end restaurants will often deny entry if you are wearing trainers, jeans or sportswear.
Check the dress code before travelling to ensure you have the right attire for the occasion or venue.
Boots
- Versatile Design for All Occasions: These white snow boots are versatile enough for daily commutes, casual outings,...
- WARM & COMFY: With 200g high-quality 3M Thinsulate insulation and cozy lining fur, mysoft winter snow boots would...
In London, a pair of leather ankle boots are a staple part of every Londoner’s wardrobe. For a trip to London in January, choose a versatile style that is comfortable and warm. You will likely be walking around the city so comfort is key and flat leather ankle boots can protect your feet from the cold wet weather.
For daywear, it is common to see walking boot style shoes as London is such a walkable city. Dr Martens is also a popular boot style in the city. However, if you plan to go out in the evening to eat dinner or catch a show you may want to bring an alternative smart pair of boots.
For evening wear, women can wear smart boots with a heel to restaurants, theatres and nightclubs, whereas men should opt for a brogue boot or Chelsea boot style.
Shirts
- Snuggle up in timeless cable knit style with our soft knit oversized sweater perfect for cozying up and looking...
- Womens long sleeve knitted oversized sweaters, quality chunky sweater can give you boyfriend warm but not heavy
Shirts are a versatile item in your travel wardrobe and are a great item to bring to London in winter. London has a modern yet relaxed way of dressing, however, people still like to look smart, even in winter.
A formal fitted shirt is the perfect item to wear to a fine-dining restaurant, coupled with a blazer and jeans for a smart casual appearance. Whereas a casual button-up can be worn throughout the day.
Checked flannel shirts, or brushed cotton button-ups are great winter wardrobe staples for men which can be layered under knitwear or over a T-shirt for a relaxed yet stylish daywear look. Whereas women may layer a warm shirt under sweaters or over a thermal T-shirt with jeans for a casual daytime outfit.
Sweaters
- Snuggle up in timeless cable knit style with our soft knit oversized sweater perfect for cozying up and looking...
- Womens long sleeve knitted oversized sweaters, quality chunky sweater can give you boyfriend warm but not heavy
As a Londoner, I love winter as the cooler temperatures mean it’s officially sweater weather. Sweaters are an essential winter clothing item in London and can be worn both during the day and at night.
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As temperatures drop further in January, layering up with comfy sweaters is the ideal way to stay warm. Oversized knit sweaters, thick cardigans or hoodies can be layered under coats and look great with jeans and boots. Sweaters are also the perfect way to add a touch of personality to your winter wardrobe.
Bright colours, prints and cosy fabrics will add individuality to your outfit, brightening the winter gloom. Or you can keep things classic with neutral tones for a sophisticated look that will lead you effortlessly into the evening while keeping you toasty.
T-shirts
- Material:The 3 packs basic tops shirts is made of 82% Polyester+12%Rayon+6%Spandex
- Materials: 82%Polyester+12%Rayon+6%Spandex.The fabric offers unparalleled comfort and a distinctive look for an...
When packing for a trip T-shirts will always be an essential item in your travel wardrobe. Packing a selection of T-shirts to create a warm base for your London winter outfits will ensure you are prepared for anything the British weather throws at you.
Pack both short-sleeved and long-sleeved T-shirts so you can adjust how warm you want to be depending on the weather that day. A high-neck T-shirt will help you stay warm without needing a scarf whereas a thermal T-shirt will keep you warm if you plan to be outside all day sightseeing.
Dresses and Skirts
- 【Premium Quality】Women's dresses crafted from a soft and elastic fabric, offer optimal comfort and freedom of...
- S=US 4-6, M=US 8-10, L=US 12-14, XL=US 16-18. Womens long sleeve sweater dress, please check the size chart before...
If you love wearing dresses and skirts you can still wear them in London during winter. Average daily temperatures in January are around 8°C (46°F) so choose dresses and skirts in thick warm materials, with longer lengths.
Thick insulated tights will keep you just as warm as wearing trousers and many women wear dresses and skirts all year round in London.
Wearing a long-sleeved dress paired with flat leather boots and warm tights creates a modern yet stylish outfit that can be layered under cardigans and long coats. Or a well-fitted dress worn with tights and heels is a sophisticated look for an evening out.
If you are worried about feeling the cold, wearing a longer-length coat will help keep the chills away.
💡Many restaurants and venues have cloakrooms for coats and umbrellas, so you can wrap up warm and still look great when you reach your destination.
Umbrella
- THE STRONGEST, WINDPROOF & BEAUTIFUL, LIGHTWEIGHT UMBRELLA: Tired of getting soaked in the rain due to a broken or...
- Durable Design to Windproof: This is unbreakable umbrella for men and women. The SY Compact umbrella have Black...
During January there is a higher chance of rain and snow than in previous months. Therefore a good quality umbrella is an essential travel item for a trip to the UK. Choose a small, yet sturdy design that you can easily carry in your bag or ready for any sudden rain showers.
Cold Weather Accessories
- HOW TO WEAR IN WINTER: Wear a stylish outdoor cap in cold winter, which will keep your head and ears warm in...
With rain and a decent chance of snow during January, you will need cold-weather accessories to keep you warm during your London trip.
- Scarves. A warm wool scarf will keep you warm and add a stylish touch to your winter outfits. Choose a colour to either complement or contrast with your winter coat.
- Hats. Londoners love a hat during winter. Knitted pom pom hats are a fun choice for any gender whereas men can sometimes be seen in flat caps. Plain beanies are the most versatile options for men, women and children, which can be colour-coordinated with your scarf or coat for a put-together look.
- Gloves. As the weather gets colder in January you will need a pair of gloves with you. This is especially the case if you plan outdoor activities such as ice skating, sightseeing or walking.
Detailed Outfit Guide | From Early to Late January
The festive decorations may have come down, but the crisp air and cosy atmosphere of winter make January a perfect time to explore.
To ensure you make the most of your visit, it’s essential to pack warm clothes, sturdy footwear, and the right accessories, however staying stylish is still possible, even in the cold. This outfit guide will help you pack everything you need for a fashionable, yet comfortable city break in London this January.
Early to Mid-January
During early to mid-January the weather is cold with temperatures around 6°C (43°F). Mornings are frosty and evenings are chilly so plenty of warm layers are needed.
For anyone planning to explore London outdoors or walk around the city, a thick winter coat and insulated boots are essential items of clothing. Men, women and children are seen in padded coats and puffer jackets in early January to protect them from the cold and the rain.
A stylish January day outfit for women includes jeans, leather boots, a cosy sweater and a warm winter coat. A soft knitted hat and a scarf will keep any cold wind away while you explore the capital and you should bring gloves just in case.
Essential: Scarf
- Cashmere Feel Scarf Shawl: Blend of fine viscose and modal. It's soft, medium weight, and has a subtle sheen....
- Winter Scarf: Adopting a brushing process by hands and more densely knitted, anti-pilling, durable and deformable,...
As your main outward appearance will be your coat and winter accessories, make stylish choices for a well-put-together outfit. Matching your hat and scarf will look polished and choosing a well-fitting coat will look more chic.
For men, a well-fitting pair of dark jeans will form the base of your outfit, which you can pair with flannel cotton shorts or cosy jumpers. Comfortable warm boots and a thick warm jacket are essential as the weather can be wet, especially if it snows. A knitted wool hat will keep you warm when you pop outside and a stylish backpack will look better than a sporty version.
Mid to Late January
The weather in mid to late January is much the same with the expectation of more rain and colder temperatures. London can occasionally experience freak weather with temperature plunges and snow in January, although these are usually short-lived.
💡 If you are travelling in mid-to-late January make sure you have plenty of thermal layers with you and bring warm hats, gloves and scarves.
- Material: women's wool & pea coats made of the soft and comfortable wool blend fabric, not too thick but also can...
- Fabric: Woolen fabric, solid color, fall winter coats wool peacoat trench coat long coats for women
It’s also a good idea to bring at least two footwear options. A sturdy warm pair of boots that can handle cold weather and icy conditions and a comfortable pair of waterproof sneakers for when the weather is mild. January weather can be unpredictable so it’s good to have options in case the weather decides to surprise you.
Children can wear similar styles to adults with leggings or jeans as a base and warm jumpers or fleeces layered over T-shirts. Waterproof, warm boots that can withstand rain and snow are essential for children. Children tend to feel the cold more than adults so make sure they have plenty of warm layers on and bring gloves and a hat.
💡Although the weather outside will be cold in London during January, the tube can be very warm. Many people use the London Underground system to navigate London which makes it feel hot. Be prepared to take off a layer when the tube is busy and carry a bag to hold hats, scarves and gloves while you are underground.
Personal Experiences and Tips
During January the weather can be gloomy and cold with some sudden temperature drops compared to December. However, there is still a festive cheer about the city with people still visiting ice rinks and outdoor light shows pop up throughout the city.
To stay warm in January, I wear a thick, insulated, and waterproof winter coat. My go-to is a black puffer coat with a hood, perfect for keeping me dry during unexpected rainstorms. However, when I go out to restaurants or the theatre, I switch to a long wool trench coat, which is both stylish and warm.
There is a higher chance of snow in January with light snowfall experienced throughout the last few years. However, when it snows in London it is usually light and can quickly turn the streets to a slippery mush. In case there is snow bring boots with good grip, which also come in handy if it gets icy.
Finally, a warm knitted hat is always either on my head or in my bag during January. Wearing a knitted hat keeps your head warm but also protects your hair from light rain showers when it’s too windy to get the umbrella out.