Last updated: March 17, 2025
December in London, United Kingdom brings a chilly embrace, with average temperatures hovering around 6°C (44°F), peaking at a modest 14°C (58°F) and dipping as low as -4°C (24°F). This month is marked by high humidity levels reaching 92%, contributing to the crisp, damp atmosphere. Rain is frequent, with 84 mm (3.3 in) of precipitation spread across 13 days, underscoring the quintessential British winter experience. Whether you're strolling through festive markets or enjoying cozy indoor activities, December's weather in London offers a unique charm that’s both invigorating and enchanting.
In December, London experiences a notable chill as temperatures begin to dip, with a minimum of -4°C (24°F) and an average of 6°C (44°F). This month marks a transition into the depths of winter, where the city often feels colder than in the preceding months. The maximum temperature reaches 14°C (58°F), hinting at the occasional milder day but overall, December tends to be brisk and crisp. Compared to November, which features slightly warmer averages and higher maximums, December cements the colder trend as the year draws to a close. With colder evenings and occasional frost, it’s a time when Londoners bundle up in their warmest layers and the festive spirit begins to fill the air.
In December, London experiences a notable increase in precipitation, with 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain, tying it with October for the highest monthly total of the year. This uptick coincides with a rise in rainy days, averaging 13 days throughout the month, which adds to the city's characteristic winter gloom. Interestingly, December's downpours can be contrasted with the drier, milder weather of early spring, highlighting a distinct trend: as the year draws to a close, Londoners can expect a wetter landscape crowned by the festive season. Despite the chill, the increased rainfall brings a lush vibrancy to the city, making it a unique time to explore its holiday charm.
In December, London experiences a notable increase in humidity, maintaining an average of 92%, which mirrors the high levels seen in November. This trend signifies the city's ongoing battle against the damp chill of winter, as the humidity barely fluctuates from the previous month. However, compared to the spring months where humidity dips to a more comfortable 85% in April and 79% in May, December stands out as one of the more humid periods of the year. As the year comes to a close, London's residents can expect a consistently moist atmosphere that can feel quite clammy during the colder days, perfect for cozying up indoors.
In December, London experiences a UV Index of 1, indicating a low exposure category and a burn time of approximately 45 minutes. This trend of low UV levels is consistent with the winter months, where sunlight is less intense, allowing for longer periods outdoors without the risk of sunburn. As the year progresses, we see the UV Index peak during the summer months, particularly in June and July, where it reaches 8, representing very high exposure. The slow decline from February through to November reinforces the seasonal variations in UV radiation, with the index typically dropping back to low levels as winter sets in. For more detailed insights on UV levels throughout the year, check out the full data on the London UV Index.
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In December, London experiences a noticeable dip in sunshine, with only 109 hours illuminating the city's winter landscape. This decline follows the gradual decrease in sunlight hours throughout the year, peaking in the vibrant month of July at 404 hours. As the seasons transition, December's shorter days starkly contrast with the bright, longer days of spring and summer. From the sunny heights of May and June, when the city basks in nearly 400 hours of sunshine, the descent to winter's gloom serves as a reminder of the changing seasons. However, even amid the chill, the fleeting rays of December sunshine can still bring a touch of warmth and magic to London's festive atmosphere.
In December, London experiences the lowest likelihood of sunny weather, with only a 17% chance of sunshine, marking a significant dip compared to the previous months. As autumn gives way to the chill of winter, the trend towards cloudier and gloomier days becomes evident. This decline in sun exposure sharply contrasts with April, where the likelihood peaks at 49%, underscoring the seasonal shift towards shorter days and moody skies. Despite the festive atmosphere, residents and visitors alike may want to prepare for a predominantly overcast December, as the city settles into its winter routine with just a glimmer of sunshine to brighten the days.
As the year winds down in London, December offers the year’s shortest daylight, with just 7 hours of sunshine. This plunges the city into a cozy twilight, contrasting markedly with the vibrant 16 hours seen in the peak of summer. The trend shows a gradual decrease in daylight starting from late autumn; November also brings only 8 hours before the sun retreats further. Interestingly, this decline is counterbalanced by a striking increase in sunlight during the spring and summer months, peaking in June and July, when daylight stretches luxuriously to 16 hours. As the seasons shift, Londoners embrace this seasonal rhythm, weaving festive lights into the long evenings, celebrating the magic of the winter months despite the dwindling daylight.
As December unfolds in London, the city's character shifts with a refreshing gust that averages 4.4 m/s (10 mph). This consistent wind speed mirrors the brisk conditions of October, suggesting a return to more dynamic weather patterns as the year draws to a close. Notably, as we transition from the milder summer months, where winds dipped as low as 3.1 m/s (7 mph) in June, December's breezes invigorate the atmosphere, drawing a sharp contrast that energizes the capital. Whether wrapped in cozy layers or venturing out for winter festivities, Londoners can expect the December wind to weave an exhilarating narrative through the storied streets this season.
The weather in London changes throughout the year, offering a unique experience in each season. Below is a month-by-month comparison of December's weather with other months, highlighting differences in temperature, precipitation, and other key factors. Click on each section to discover seasonal trends in London and find detailed weather information for every month.
In December, temperatures typically range from a minimum of -4°C (24°F) to a maximum of 14°C (58°F), with an average of 6°C (44°F). The month experiences higher precipitation at 84 mm (3.3 in) over approximately 13 days, contributing to a humidity level of 92%. In contrast, January sees a slight dip in temperature, with a minimum of -5°C (24°F) and an average of 5°C (41°F), while the maximum remains the same at 14°C (58°F). Precipitation decreases to 54 mm (2.1 in) over 10 days, resulting in a marginally lower humidity of 91%. Overall, January tends to be a bit colder and drier compared to December. For more detailed insights, you can check London weather in January.
December weather is generally colder than that of February, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -4°C (24°F) to a maximum of 14°C (58°F), and an average temperature of 6°C (44°F). In contrast, February experiences slightly lower minimum temperatures at -5°C (23°F), but it can reach a higher maximum of 18°C (65°F) while maintaining a similar average of 6°C (43°F). December sees more precipitation, totaling 84 mm (3.3 in) over about 13 days, compared to February's 53 mm (2.1 in) across 11 days. Additionally, December has a higher humidity level at 92%, while February's humidity is slightly lower at 89%. For more detailed information, check out London weather in February.
December weather is characterized by chilly temperatures, with a minimum of -4°C (24°F) and an average of 6°C (44°F), reaching a maximum of 14°C (58°F). The month typically sees 84 mm (3.3 in) of precipitation over 13 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 92%. In contrast, March brings slightly milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -5°C (23°F) to a maximum of 22°C (71°F) and an average of 7°C (46°F). Precipitation decreases to 54 mm (2.1 in), also spread over 13 days, resulting in a more comfortable humidity of 86%. For more details on the weather in this month, check out London weather in March.
In December, the weather is significantly colder, with average temperatures hovering around 6°C (44°F) and nighttime lows dipping to -4°C (24°F). The month is also quite damp, characterized by 84 mm (3.3 in) of precipitation over 13 days and high humidity levels of 92%. In contrast, April brings a noticeable warming trend, with average temperatures rising to 10°C (49°F) and daytime highs reaching up to 26°C (80°F). The precipitation drops dramatically to 33 mm (1.3 in) over just 8 days, and humidity levels decrease slightly to 85%. For a more detailed look, check out London weather in April.
December weather tends to be much colder and more humid compared to May. With temperatures ranging from a chilly -4°C (24°F) to a maximum of 14°C (58°F), December averages around 6°C (44°F) and sees significant precipitation of 84 mm (3.3 in) over approximately 13 days, maintaining a high humidity level of 92%. In contrast, May brings milder temperatures, with a minimum of 1°C (35°F) and a maximum of 25°C (78°F), averaging 13°C (55°F). Precipitation in May is lower at 62 mm (2.5 in), occurring over about 11 days, and the humidity is a more comfortable 79%. For a deeper understanding of the differences, you can check out London weather in May.
December and June present starkly contrasting weather conditions. In December, temperatures range from a chilly -4°C (24°F) at night to a mild 14°C (58°F) during the day, with an average temperature of around 6°C (44°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, with 84 mm (3.3 in) falling over 13 days and high humidity levels at 92%. In contrast, June brings considerably warmer weather, with nighttime temperatures starting at a minimum of 7°C (45°F) and soaring to a maximum of 31°C (89°F), resulting in an average of 16°C (62°F). Although June has slightly less total precipitation at 77 mm (3.0 in) over just 9 days, humidity is lower at 80%. For more details, check out London weather in June.
In December, London experiences a chilly climate with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -4°C (24°F) to a maximum of 14°C (58°F), averaging around 6°C (44°F). The month is marked by high humidity at 92% and significant precipitation, totaling 84 mm (3.3 in) over about 13 days. In stark contrast, July brings warmer weather, with temperatures soaring from a minimum of 9°C (49°F) to a sweltering maximum of 36°C (96°F), averaging 18°C (65°F). The humidity is notably lower at 71%, and precipitation is reduced to 64 mm (2.5 in) over 11 days. For more details on July weather, check out London weather in July.
December and August present starkly contrasting weather conditions. December experiences colder temperatures, with averages around 6°C (44°F) and a minimum of -4°C (24°F), while August boasts a much warmer average of 18°C (64°F) and can reach highs of 34°C (93°F). Precipitation levels are slightly higher in December at 84 mm (3.3 in) over 13 days, compared to 70 mm (2.7 in) over 12 days in August. Additionally, December's humidity is notably higher at 92%, making the air feel damp and chilly, whereas August enjoys a more comfortable humidity level of 76%. For more detailed information, check out London weather in August.
December and September showcase contrasting weather patterns. In December, temperatures range from a chilly -4°C (24°F) to a mild 14°C (58°F), with an average temperature of 6°C (44°F). This month also sees more precipitation, totaling 84 mm (3.3 in) over 13 days, and high humidity at 92%. In contrast, September enjoys much warmer conditions, with temperatures varying from 4°C (39°F) to a pleasant 28°C (83°F) and an average of 15°C (59°F). Precipitation is lighter at 45 mm (1.8 in) over 10 days, with slightly lower humidity at 82%. For a closer look at September weather patterns, visit London weather in September.
In comparing the weather between December and October, we notice a significant drop in temperatures. December's average temperature is cooler, ranging from a minimum of -4°C (24°F) to a maximum of 14°C (58°F), while October enjoys milder conditions with temperatures varying from 1°C (34°F) to 22°C (73°F). Both months receive similar amounts of precipitation, with December experiencing 84 mm (3.3 in) over 13 days and October seeing the same amount over one fewer day. Humidity is slightly higher in December at 92%, compared to October's 90%, which can contribute to a chillier feel. For more detailed insights, you can check out London weather in October.
In comparing the weather between December and November, December tends to be cooler, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -4°C (24°F) to a maximum of 14°C (58°F), whereas November sees slightly milder conditions with temperatures ranging from -2°C (29°F) to a maximum of 16°C (62°F). Additionally, December experiences more precipitation, totaling 84 mm (3.3 in) over 13 days, compared to November's 52 mm (2.0 in) over 11 days. Both months maintain high humidity levels at 92%, contributing to a damp and chilly atmosphere. For a more detailed understanding of conditions in November, you can refer to London weather in November.
As December rolls in, London's weather showcases a distinct chill that sets it apart from the milder months. With temperatures dipping to average lows and notable rainfall spread across more than a week, the city often feels the embrace of winter. Humidity levels soar, adding to that brisk sensation in the air. Compared to other months, December brings a more pronounced dreariness, urging residents and visitors alike to bundle up and brave the elements. For those curious about the broader patterns and variations throughout the year, check out London Climate for a comprehensive overview.