What May feels like in London
Late spring arrives in London with May. Expect cool, jacket-on afternoons — comfortable for a long walk. After sunset it cools off noticeably — nights are cool. Damp air makes the cold feel rawer than the numbers alone suggest.
Rain in London in May
It is a changeable month: rain comes about one day in 3, with dry spells in between. Wet days average about 5.3 mm (0.2 in), enough to soak you without an umbrella. The yearly figure is similar, around 5.3 mm per wet day.
Daylight and sunshine in May
On 15 May the sun rises at about 5:10 am and sets around 8:43 pm local time, giving 15 h 34 min of daylight. The days are stretching out — 1 h 46 min more daylight than mid-April. The sun is out for roughly 66% of those daylight hours, so there are plenty of bright spells.
How May compares to the rest of the year
May is the 5th warmest month of the year in London. Compared with April, afternoons are 3°C (5.4°F) warmer, with 19 mm more rain. June continues the upward trend. The next month's average high: 20.3°C (68.5°F).
Who May suits
- Sightseeing: a good fit — daytime temperatures are fine for walking around.
- Parks & outdoor: a good fit — good conditions for sitting outside.
Tips for visiting London in May
Versatile Layers
Pack pieces you can take off by noon and put back on at dusk.
Rain Protection
A compact umbrella and a light waterproof jacket.
Light Jacket
A light jacket or knit layer is enough for most of the day.
Sunglasses
Bright days make sunglasses worth packing.
Quick questions
How warm is London in May?
Expect around 17.1°C (62.8°F) in the afternoon and 8.6°C (47.5°F) at night, which most visitors would call cool.
Does it rain a lot in London in May?
It does: about 11 rainy days bring roughly 59 mm, so plan some indoor options.
What should I wear in London in May?
The numbers point to versatile layers, rain protection, a light jacket and sunglasses. Bring something extra for the cooler evenings.
Is May or June better for visiting London?
June, clearly: it ranks #2 of 12 among London's months, against #6 for the other. June is warmer and has fewer rainy days.