A local’s guide to February in London
I’m not sure every Londoner would agree with me, but I am actually quite a fan of the month of February. I tend to go easy on myself in January, often staying in and cosy through the long dark nights. But February is short and sweet, with signs of spring starting to peek through, and, as a teacher, I always look forward to the half-term break.
While I’m not particularly into Valentine’s Day, February does bring a sense of romance—perfect for treating yourself or spending time with loved ones. It’s also a chance to rediscover the city, soaking up its unique mix of wintry charm and early glimpses of spring.
To help you find the bright side of this month, here is my guide to February in London.
Snowdrops start blooming in February
Tips for visitors: what to expect of February in London
As any Londoner will tell you, February can be pretty dismal weather-wise, and the days are still short. I won’t sugar-coat it. If you’re thinking of travelling to London in February, I am not going to pretend that you have a good chance of decent weather. You must expect the rain, wind and cold. But, that doesn’t mean it is all bad. There’s plenty to do indoors in London, and February brings the blessing of fewer crowds which means you might have more access to popular spots.
Weather in February
February in London is often chilly, with daytime temperatures averaging around 6–9°C (43–48°F). Mornings and evenings can dip closer to freezing, so it’s worth bundling up if you’re out and about. Rain is common, but not usually heavy—think drizzle and the occasional gray skies. On brighter days, you might even get glimpses of sunshine, and early spring flowers like snowdrops and crocuses start popping up in parks and gardens, adding a bit of cheer to the otherwise wintry landscape.
Daylight hours in February
In February, London sees about 9 hours of daylight early in the month, increasing to nearly 11 hours by the end, with sunrises around 7:40 AM and sunsets stretching to 5:40 PM.
Avoid February half term crowds
One advantage about visiting London in February is that it is the quietest season for travel, except for during the week of half term. Schools have a one-week break nationwide, meaning that many families will be out and about in London and especially at the big museums like the Natural History Museum.
It’s not the end of the world, but London will be more expensive to visit that week and a bit busier. Many Brits try to go away somewhere sunny or snowy that week, so airports will be busy.
Half term changes slightly every year. In 2025 most schools break up between the 17-21st of February.
Be prepared for London in February
As you can see, the weather can be a bit trying in February. But, to be honest, London’s wet weather can happen at any time of year and it is the rain that makes exploring the city the most difficult. It never gets bitingly cold in London, in my opinion — if you have a warm coat and waterproof shoes you should be fine.
Early spring on the Strand
Tips for London locals in February
My advice is to take the opportunity to visit places you’ve always wanted to go, but may have been put off by crowds. It might be easier to get tickets to the busy spots, or a table at the popular restaurants, without having to battle the crowds.
I also think it’s a good time to engage in the arts and culture of London, from exhibitions to theatre. This helps break up the long, dark evenings, and I think it’s good to get your fill of these before the lighter nights bring the opportunity to be out and about after work.
If you can’t quite afford to go abroad somewhere in February, consider a staycation in London or day trips to nearby destinations. Cheaper prices will be possible outside of Valentine’s Day/half term, so it’s a nice opportunity to experience the city in a different way.
Things to do in February in London
Warm up in London’s many museums
February is the perfect time to explore London’s incredible museums. With fewer tourists around, you can enjoy iconic spots like the British Museum and National Gallery in a calmer atmosphere. The British Museum's vast collection offers a global journey through history, while the National Gallery is a treasure trove of European masterpieces. Here’s my guide to both museums.
For art enthusiasts, deciding between the Tate Modern and Tate Britain might seem tricky, but both offer distinct experiences. If you lean toward bold contemporary works, the Tate Modern’s striking industrial setting will draw you in. Prefer classic British art? The serene galleries of Tate Britain are an absolute must. (Check out my guide to compare the two!)
Courtauld Gallery
Many museums offer extended evening hours on Fridays or weekends, making it easy to fit a visit into your day. Late-night openings create a unique atmosphere, where you can enjoy exhibitions under softer lights and without the daytime rush. It's a great opportunity to pair a cultural outing with dinner or drinks nearby—ideal for making the most of London's vibrant winter evenings.
Escaping into a warm museum on a chilly February day is a win-win: cultural enrichment and a cosy refuge from the weather.
See an art exhibition
February brings us many treats this year in the form of exciting exhibition openings. Many of my favourites are closing this month, and will be replaced with new shows. Check the link below for a full list of what’s on during this time of year.
Image from Brasil Brasil exhibition
Medieval Women
Where: British Library
Dates: October 25, 2024 – March 2, 2025
Discover the untold stories of medieval queens, saints, writers, and everyday women through manuscripts, artifacts, and artworks. This exhibition highlights the extraordinary contributions of figures like Hildegard of Bingen and Christine de Pizan while exploring the diverse roles women played in medieval society.
Noah Davis
Where: Barbican Art Gallery
Dates: February 6 – May 11, 2025
Experience the evocative, dreamlike world of Noah Davis, whose figurative paintings explore Black life with a mix of intimacy and surrealism. This exhibition also celebrates Davis's innovative legacy as the founder of Los Angeles's Underground Museum, featuring over 40 of his key works.
Brasil! Brasil! The Birth of Modernism
Where: Royal Academy of Arts
Dates: January 28 – April 21, 2025
Explore the vibrant evolution of Brazilian modernism, blending international influences with Indigenous heritage, Afro-Brazilian identity, and everyday life. Works by trailblazing artists such as Tarsila do Amaral and Rubem Valentim showcase the bold creativity that defined this era.
Take in the view from above
If you're looking for a panoramic view of London, the Sky Garden is an excellent spot, offering sweeping 360-degree views of the city, all for free. Situated atop the "Walkie Talkie" building, it’s a lush indoor space filled with tropical plants, offering both a stunning garden and a relaxed atmosphere. To ensure you don’t miss out, be sure to book tickets in advance as they’re popular and free but limited.
Another great option is The Garden at 120, located at 120 Fenchurch Street. This hidden gem offers an equally impressive view of London’s skyline, including views of the Shard, Tower Bridge, and St. Paul’s Cathedral. The garden is free to enter and provides a peaceful retreat from the bustling city below, making it an ideal spot for a quiet moment or a relaxing break.
If you’re looking for a less crowded, more serene place to admire the London skyline, Primrose Hill offers another fantastic option. A bit off the beaten track, it gives an unobstructed view of the city, especially during a crisp February day. Make sure to walk around the cute colourful neighbourhoods around this area when you visit.
Kew Gardens Orchid Festival
Dreary February days are brightened each year at Kew’s Orchid festival. Visiting the orchid-filled conservatory is one of my favourite events of the year as it brings so much cheer and colour to winter in London!
The vibrant 2025 display features over 3,000 species of orchids, set against iconic Peruvian landscapes like Machu Picchu and the Nazca Lines. The exhibition also highlights Peru’s rich wildlife, from alpacas to flamingos.
In addition to its stunning floral arrangements, the festival focuses on Kew’s conservation efforts in Peru, including forest restoration and preserving medicinal plants. For an extra treat, attend the After-Hours events, offering entertainment celebrating Peruvian culture.
Find more details in my full Kew Gardens guide.
Book your tickets to Kew Gardens here.
Go to the theatre
So London in February is not exactly prime time for tourists, right? It’s cold, wet, still pretty dark. By this logic I’m hoping that it means it will be easier to pick up last minute tickets to London’s excellent theatre. Here’s what’s at the top of my list:
Look out for spring flowers
February marks the start of London’s transition into spring, and if you’re eager to see the first signs of the season, there’s no better time to get outside and explore the city’s blooms. Snowdrops take center stage this month, blanketing gardens like Chelsea Physic Garden and the wilder sections of Kew Gardens in delicate white. For more tips on the best spots, check out my snowdrop guide.
Toward the end of February, crocuses and daffodils begin to make their entrance, offering pops of color to London’s parks and green spaces. Hyde Park and Green Park are particularly lovely for spotting these early signs of spring. If you’re planning your floral outings, don’t miss my full guide to experiencing spring flowers across London—it’s packed with ideas to inspire your visits.
Wintry pub walks
There’s nothing better than a crisp winter walk followed by a stop at a cozy pub, and London offers plenty of routes that combine fresh air with warm hospitality.
on a winter walk in Barnes
Richmond Park is perfect for a frosty stroll where you might spot deer, and afterward, The Plough in East Sheen provides a welcoming retreat with hearty meals and a fireplace.
Hampstead Heath offers scenic views from Parliament Hill or woodland paths, which can be paired with a visit to The Holly Bush, a historic and intimate pub tucked away on a quiet street.
For a blend of heritage and riverside beauty, take a walk around Chiswick House and Gardens or along Chiswick Mall before heading to The Dove, a pub with cozy corners and views of the Thames.
Greenwich Park’s sweeping panoramas pair beautifully with a meal or drink at The Prince of Greenwich, a pub offering a laid-back yet characterful experience.
For a riverside escape, explore Barnes and its charming village before visiting The White Hart, which combines historical charm with waterside views.
Finally, Strand on the Green offers a lovely riverside route, ending at The City Barge, a pub steeped in history with a cozy, welcoming vibe.
Here’s a video I made of a frosty walk in Richmond Park, for a preview of the beautiful walks in store:
Enjoy beautiful restaurants and bars in London
London is full of romantic, beautifully designed bars. I don’t drink, but I love going to bars for the design and mocktails. So—take it with a pinch of salt that I am judging these aesthetically and not by the quality of the drinks! That said, here are my top three choices for a February date:
The Red Room at the Connaught
The Painter’s Room, Claridge’s
Zetter Townhouse — either location in Marylebone or Clerkenwell has beautiful, cozy bars.
Read more about beautiful bars in London here.
I also love visiting aesthetic London restaurants, and her are my top picks for a date in February:
Spring at Somerset House (try the scratch menu for amazing value)
Sessions Arts Club
Cafe Cecilia
Valentine’s Day dates
These recommendations also double up as romantic spots for Valentine’s Day. I’d be delighted to be taken to any of them for a Valentine’s date!
London Fashion Week
London Fashion Week (LFW) returns from February 20 to February 24, 2025, showcasing the latest collections from both established and emerging designers. Events take place across the city, with a mix of runway shows, presentations, and exhibitions. The main hub is usually the Strand or The Store X, but off-site venues often host some of the most talked-about shows.
For those not in the industry, LFW often features public-facing events like pop-ups, panel discussions, and behind-the-scenes tours. Keep an eye out for London Fashion Week City-Wide, which opens up the world of fashion to everyone with workshops, film screenings, and special offers in shops across London.
February in London
While February might not be the ideal weather month in London, it does have its perks and charms. Bound to be quieter than other times of year, you can enjoy some of London’s popular spots in a more chilled atmosphere. There’s always so much art and culture to keep us going in the colder months, and on the rare sunny day, winter in London can be beautiful for a walk. I hope this post helps you plan some lovely outings for February in London.
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