London in March: Weather, Packing, and Best Hotels

April 22, 2026 • By Santorini Dave

Quick Hotel Picks

For March, I prioritize hotels near the Royal Parks, museums, theaters, and major transport links so you can take advantage of early spring walks when the weather is good and still have excellent indoor options when it turns cool or drizzly.

Best for Rail Arrivals: St. Pancras Renaissance (Perfect if you are arriving by Eurostar or train and want immediate access to King’s Cross, St. Pancras, and multiple Tube lines without a long outdoor transfer)
Best for First-Timers: NoMad London (An excellent Covent Garden base for first-time visitors, with theaters, restaurants, museums, and central sights all close at hand)
Best for Spring Luxury: The Savoy (Classic grand-hotel luxury in a superb central location, ideal for March when you want an elegant retreat after a day of parks, galleries, and changeable weather)
Best Value: Motel One Tower Hill (A stylish and usually good-value option with strong transport connections and easy access to the City, Tower of London, and riverside walks)
Best for Families: Park Plaza Westminster Bridge (Spacious room options and a very convenient South Bank location near family-friendly attractions, with plenty to do indoors if the weather is cool or wet)

Weather in London in March

Average highs reach about 10.9°C (52°F), while lows can drop to 3.1°C (38°F). Expect roughly 9 days of rain throughout the month, though this is often a light, persistent drizzle rather than a heavy downpour.

The wind is a major factor this month. When you are walking along the South Bank or crossing bridges, the breeze off the Thames can make 10°C feel significantly colder. Conditions evolve quickly as the month progresses. Early March often feels like a continuation of winter, while late March brings more frequent sun breaks and a noticeable shift in temperature as the city warms up.

Daylight and the Spring Shift

One of the most practical reasons to choose March over February is the dramatic increase in daylight. You gain nearly two hours of usable light over the course of the month, starting with roughly 11 hours and ending with nearly 13. In late March, the UK switches to British Summer Time (clocks go forward), meaning the sun stays up until nearly 8:00 PM by the end of the month. This extra evening light is a game-changer for sightseeing and makes the city feel much more energized than the dark winter months.

March vs Other Months

February vs March: February is often bleak and stays dark early. March feels like the city is waking up. While temperatures only rise slightly, the visual change from gray skeletons to green buds and yellow daffodils makes a huge difference in how the city feels.
March vs April: April is generally warmer and the blossoms are in full swing, but it marks the start of the primary tourist season. Late March or April can feel much busier when Easter school holidays line up. I prefer the quieter, cheaper window of mid-March before the holiday rush begins.

Seasonal Experiences and Spring Flora

The real draw of March is the return of color to the Royal Parks. I recommend heading to St. James’s Park to see the famous carpets of yellow daffodils. By mid-March, you will see crocuses in the grass and the first magnolias blooming in neighborhoods like Notting Hill. If you have time for a half-day trip, Kew Gardens is essential this month for its spring bulb displays and the very start of the cherry blossom window, which typically opens between mid-March and mid-April.

Events that Affect Crowds and Reservations

There are two major dates that I always tell my readers to watch out for as their exact dates vary each year.

St. Patrick’s Day: Usually mid-March, this brings a massive festival to Trafalgar Square and packed pubs in Soho.
Mothering Sunday (UK Mother’s Day): This is one of the busiest days of the year for restaurants. If you want a traditional Sunday Roast or Afternoon Tea on this weekend, you must book weeks in advance.

Best Things to Do in Bad Weather

Since you will likely face at least one rainy afternoon, I always have a backup plan ready.

The Big Museums: The British Museum in Bloomsbury and the National Gallery at Trafalgar Square are world-class indoor retreats. The National Gallery often has Friday lates which are great for evening rain.
Covered Markets: Spitalfields or Leadenhall Market offer shelter and great food.
West End Theater: Booking a matinee is a perfect way to escape a cold rain.
Indoor Viewpoints: Skip the open-top buses and head to the Sky Garden or the Shard for indoor panoramas.

What to Pack for London in March

Packing for London this month is about managing moisture and wind. I suggest a high-quality rain shell or a light wool coat rather than a heavy, bulky puffer jacket.

Layers: A light sweater or cardigan that can be removed in the often overheated Underground stations.
Shoes: Waterproof leather boots or treated sneakers. Avoid canvas shoes, as wet feet will ruin your day.
Accessories: A compact, wind-resistant umbrella and a light scarf are essential for those chilly evening walks. I also find light gloves useful if you plan on doing a lot of outdoor photography.

Where to Stay in London in March

Best for Rail Arrivals and Eurostar: St. Pancras Renaissance. This historic station hotel allows you to move from the train to your room without dealing with the rain.
Best for First-Timers: NoMad London. Located in Covent Garden, it is a short walk to theaters and museums. The glass-roofed atrium is a beautiful place to eat while watching the rain fall safely from above.
Best for Families: Park Plaza Westminster Bridge. The large rooms and indoor pool are helpful for families, and its location means very short walks to the London Eye.
Best for Theater Trips: The Z Soho. A smart value option that puts you in the middle of the action so you can return quickly after an evening show.
Best for Transit Convenience: Kimpton Fitzroy. This hotel is directly across from Russell Square station, giving you a direct, dry link to Heathrow via the Piccadilly Line.
Best Luxury Splurge: The Savoy. For a classic experience, this remains a favorite. Its central location on the Strand makes it an easy base for exploring both the City and the West End.

You can find more detailed recommendations on my page for the best places to stay in London.

Transport and Getting Around

I always advise visitors to skip the paper travelcards. Contactless payment or an Oyster card is the cheapest and easiest way to use the Tube and buses. For airport transfers, the Elizabeth Line is usually the best balance of speed and price, especially if you are staying near Paddington or the City. The Heathrow Express is faster but significantly more expensive unless you book weeks in advance. If you are a London first timer, remember that the Underground is often the warmest way to travel during a chilly March day.

Crowd and Booking Expectations

While March is generally quieter than summer, London is never empty. You should book popular West End shows and high-end afternoon teas at least 3 to 4 weeks in advance, especially if your visit overlaps with Mothering Sunday. Major museum exhibitions can also sell out, so I recommend checking the schedules for the British Museum or the V&A before you fly.

A Sample March Itinerary: The Bloom and Museum Loop

Start your morning in Bloomsbury with a visit to the British Museum. Afterward, walk south through the narrow streets of Covent Garden for lunch. In the afternoon, head to St. James’s Park to see the daffodils and watch the pelicans being fed. Finish your day with a walk to Westminster to see Big Ben as the sun sets. This route keeps you near plenty of shops and cafes where you can duck inside if a March rain shower starts.

Frequently Asked Questions about London in March

Is March a good time to visit London, or is the weather too unpredictable? Yes – I think March is a very good time to visit if you care more about lower prices, lighter crowds, and museum-friendly sightseeing than warm weather. The weather is changeable, but it is usually manageable if you build your days around a mix of indoor sights, cozy meals, and short outdoor walks when the sun appears.
What is the weather really like, and how cold does it actually get in March? It is usually cool rather than brutally cold. A good rule of thumb is daytime highs around 9°C to 11°C (48°F to 52°F) and nighttime lows around 2°C to 4°C (36°F to 39°F). What catches people off guard is not extreme cold but the combination of damp air, breeze, and grey skies, which can make it feel colder than the temperature suggests.
What should I pack and wear for London in March to handle the wind and rain? Layers are the key. I would pack a light wool coat or a good rain shell, a sweater, waterproof shoes or boots, and a scarf. A heavy winter puffer is usually unnecessary unless you get cold very easily. On the Tube and in museums, you will warm up quickly, so flexible layers work much better than one bulky coat.
Does it rain a lot in March, and is there any chance of snow? March is not usually a very wet month by London standards, but brief drizzle and light showers are common. You should expect some rainy spells, though not usually constant all-day rain. Snow is possible in early March, but it is rare in central London and usually does not settle for long.
How many daylight hours are there in March, and when do the clocks go forward? You gain a noticeable amount of daylight in March, going from roughly 11 hours at the start of the month to nearly 13 by the end. The clocks go forward on the last Sunday of March, which means brighter evenings and more time for late-afternoon sightseeing.
Is London less crowded in March compared to April and the summer season? Yes, usually. March is generally quieter than the summer months, with shorter lines and more hotel availability. The main exception is when Easter falls in late March, because that can bring busier museums, fuller trains, and higher hotel prices.
Is March one of the cheapest times to visit, and are hotel prices significantly lower? March is often a good-value month, especially compared with late spring and summer. Prices are usually better than they are in April, May, or the peak summer season, though rates can rise around Easter weekends and special events. It is a smart month for travelers who want a nicer hotel without paying full high-season prices.
What is the best area to stay in London in March to be close to spring parks and central sights? I like St. James’s, Mayfair, Covent Garden, and Bloomsbury in March. St. James’s and Mayfair are especially good if you want easy access to Green Park and St. James’s Park for daffodils and early spring color. Covent Garden and Bloomsbury work very well if you want quick access to museums, theaters, restaurants, and Tube connections on colder or wetter days.
What are the best things to do in London in March as the city transitions to spring? March is ideal for a mix of short outdoor walks and classic indoor London. I would stroll through St. James’s Park, Hyde Park, or Kew Gardens when the weather is good, then balance that with museums, afternoon tea, historic pubs, and a West End show in the evening. It is a month that rewards flexible planning.
What are the best indoor activities for those cold or rainy March days? The British Museum, the Victoria and Albert Museum, the National Gallery, and the British Library are all excellent choices. I also love a West End matinee, a long lunch in a good gastropub, or a proper afternoon tea when the weather turns damp and blustery.
When and where can I see the first cherry blossoms, magnolias, and daffodils in March? Daffodils are the most reliable March flower and are easy to find in places like St. James’s Park and Green Park. Magnolias and early blossom can start appearing later in the month, especially in Kew Gardens, central garden squares, and some residential streets in west and central London. Late March usually feels much more floral than early March.
Is it too early to enjoy the Royal Parks and Kew Gardens in March? Not at all. March is one of the first truly rewarding months for gardens and parks in London. You may not get full spring abundance yet, but daffodils, crocuses, magnolias, and early blossom can make parks and gardens look surprisingly beautiful, especially in the second half of the month.
Are museums and major attractions less crowded before the Easter holidays begin? Usually yes. Earlier March is often noticeably easier than Easter periods and the summer season, especially at big museums and family attractions. If you want the quietest spring trip, aim for earlier in the month rather than school holiday periods.
Do I need to book the Tower of London or the London Eye in advance in March? I recommend it, especially for the London Eye and for weekend visits. Advance booking makes the day easier, gives you more choice of entry times, and helps you avoid wasting good weather standing around waiting for tickets.
Is March a good month for walking tours, or is it too windy and wet? It is a good month for walking tours as long as you dress properly and keep your expectations realistic. London can feel crisp, fresh, and very walkable in March, but you should be prepared for wind, drizzle, and the occasional need to duck indoors for coffee or lunch. Waterproof shoes help a lot.
What special events happen in March, such as St. Patrick’s Day or Mothering Sunday? March often includes big city events like the St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, and Mothering Sunday can make restaurants and afternoon tea venues much busier than usual. The exact dates change from year to year, so it is always worth checking the calendar before you book your trip.
Do I need to book restaurants far in advance for Mother’s Day? For popular central restaurants and classic afternoon tea spots, yes – booking ahead is a very good idea. You do not need to panic for every casual meal in the city, but the most in-demand places can fill up well before Mothering Sunday.
Will weekend engineering works on the Tube or trains affect my March travel? They can. Like any month, March can include planned weekend engineering works or line closures, so I always check live transit information before heading out. This matters most for airport transfers, day trips, and late-night returns.
Are day trips to the Cotswolds, Oxford, or Stonehenge worth it in the March weather? Yes, but I would choose carefully. Oxford works especially well in March because you can mix beautiful walks with colleges, libraries, and museums. The Cotswolds can also be lovely on a crisp day. Stonehenge is still worthwhile, but it can feel bleak if the weather turns cold, wet, and windy, so it is better for travelers who do not mind exposed outdoor sites.
What are the best budget-friendly hotels in central London for an early spring visit?
For a clean, modern, and inviting base, I recommend Motel One Tower Hill. If you want to be right in the heart of the action to minimize walking in the rain, Z Soho or The Z Covent Garden are excellent. The rooms are compact but stylish and perfectly located for theater-goers.

About Santorini Dave

Santorini Dave in Athens, Greece Santorini Dave was started in 2011 when I posted a short guide to visiting Santorini with kids. Now, my site publishes regularly updated guides to Santorini, Naxos, Paros, Mykonos, Crete, Athens, and all of Greece.

Questions? Email me at dave@santorinidave.com.

SantoriniDave.com

London in March

See Also