The United Kingdom in February: Travel Tips for First-Timers

February is in winter in the United Kingdom, and for those planning a trip in February, you'd be likely to see some wintry showers with cold weather. During this time, we suggest visiting London, Edinburgh, Cardiff, and Oxford.

Read on to find out more about travel and weather, including temperatures, rainfall, humidity, and tips for February.

United Kingdom Weather in February: Overview

Averages:

• Temperature range: 2–8°C (36–47°F)
• Rainfall: 8 cm (3 inches)
• Rainy days: 12
• Sunshine hours/day: 3
• Humidity: 77% (humid and rainy throughout the United Kingdom)

While February is a little drier than January, temperatures are around the same, making the United Kingdom a cool to cold destination for visitors in February. Thankfully, there is still a lot to be enjoyed in colder conditions, including indoor activities for if you need to hide from a shower.

Sunshine averages around 3 hours per day, and humidity levels are around 77% due to the oceanic climate, which makes it feel colder. There is also the possibility for snow to fall occasionally in February in the United Kingdom, especially up north or on some of the mountain tops.

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February Climate Comparison (Averages) for the United Kingdom's Top Tourism Areas

The Best Places to Visit in the United Kingdom in February

February is less rainy than January, meaning there are more dry times to explore and go on walks outside. While temperatures are still low, there is plenty to see and do in the United Kingdom that involves both the indoors and the outdoors. It being low season for tourism means that you'd be able to enjoy more of the United Kingdom with fewer crowds.

Below you will find some of our top recommendations for visitors to the United Kingdom in February, whether you'd like to spend your time seeing Scotland's best castles and palaces, watching a musical in London, or exploring Oxford's beautiful colleges for their architecture and historical significance.

1. Catch a Show in London's West End

London's capital has so much to offer. Why not catch a musical in its West End? This important area of London is where you'll find all the theaters, as well as some of the best restaurants, bars, shops, and tourist sites. Walk over to see the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben before finding somewhere to get dinner, and seeing a show.

Other must-sees are Buckingham Palace, of course, as well as Westminster Abbey, the London Eye, Hyde Park, and different neighborhoods such as Camden known for its alternative shops and Notting Hill known for being the backdrop to many movies and home to many boutique stores.

For art lovers, we would recommend the National Gallery, the Tate Modern, the Design Museum, and also the British Museum, which is home to a lot of incredible art from all over the world.

2. Visit Holyroodhouse and Arthur's Seat in Edinburgh

Holyroodhouse is the official residence of the British monarch's family when they are in Scotland, and the nearby park has a beautiful hill called Arthur's Seat — perfect for a crisp winter walk.

At the end of Edinburgh's Royal Mile, the Palace has some associations with the biggest historical figures of the United Kingdom, such as Mary Queen of Scots and Bonnie Prince Charlie.

You can visit inside and see the Royal Dining Room, the Darnley Jewel, the State Apartments, and the Throne Room. Nearby Holyrood Abbey is also worth a visit. There are special activities for kids inside too, including dressing up in royal wear so they have a chance to learn about Scottish history.

3. Explore the Colleges of Oxford University

One of the country's most famous universities is undoubtedly Oxford University, and it's possible to visit some of the most impressive colleges there and explore the city of Oxford, too.

We recommend walking around the city and visiting the Bodleian Libraries, the Ashmolean Museum, the Oxford Museum of Natural History, Christ Church College, Magdalen College, and the University Church of St Mary the Virgin.

For Harry Potter fans the Christ Church College dining hall is fun to visit, as it mirrors the Great Hall used Hogwarts.

4. Check out the Welsh Capital of Cardiff

Cardiff, Wales' capital city, makes for a great day out. We recommend Cardiff Market (open from Monday to Saturday), which is based in a Victorian building and has been trading since the 1700s. You can do a bit of souvenir shopping there for friends and family back home, or grab some lunch or a few drinks.

A walking tour is recommended as you'll be able to visit all the top sights, including the St Fagans National Museum of History to help you understand Wales' history, Cardiff Castle, as well as Cardiff Bay.

For those wanting to see some of Wales' natural beauty, there is the option to go for a hike around the waterfalls of Brecon Beacons National Park, which is near the city, or if you have more time Cardiff is a great starting point for a 4-hour drive across Wales to visit Snowdon (its highest mountain).

Low Season: Less Expensive and Less Crowded

February falls in the United Kingdom's low season for tourism, meaning that there are fewer crowds and tourists at the big sites. This also means it likely will be easier to get tickets for things like musicals and museums. Prices are also a little lower for accommodation and travel during this time of the year, making it a good time to visit.

What to Wear in February

February is generally on the cool and cold side in the United Kingdom, so we would recommend layering up and bringing a winter coat with you. Additional layers will be helpful if you're spending a lot of time outside, as well as gloves or a hat and a scarf.

We would also recommend bringing an umbrella, especially if your coat isn't waterproof with a hood, just to make sure you don't get wet in case of a bit of rain.

If you want to hike, we recommend bringing the appropriate hiking gear, as well as supportive footwear.

Monthly Weather in United Kingdom