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
February can be gloomy in London, and the days are still short. I won’t sugar-coat it: rain, wind and cold are all likely. That said, it’s far from a bad time to visit. There’s plenty to do indoors, and fewer crowds mean easier access to popular spots.
February at the Royal Naval College in Greenwich
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 2026, most schools break up between 16–20 February.
Early spring on the Strand
Tips for London locals in February
Tips for London locals in February February is a good time to visit places you usually avoid because of crowds. It’s often easier to get tickets, book restaurants, and enjoy popular spots without too much planning.
It’s also a great month to lean into London’s arts and culture. Exhibitions, galleries and theatre help break up the darker evenings, and it’s nice to make the most of them before lighter nights pull you outdoors after work.
If a trip abroad isn’t on the cards, February works well for a London staycation or nearby day trips. Outside of Valentine’s Day and half term, prices tend to be lower, and the city feels calmer and easier to enjoy.
Things to do in February in London
Warm up in London’s many museums
February is a great time to explore London’s museums. With fewer tourists around, places like the British Museum and the National Gallery feel calmer and easier to enjoy. Here’s my guide to both museums.
If you’re choosing between Tate Modern and Tate Britain, it really depends on your taste. Tate Modern suits those drawn to contemporary work and dramatic spaces, while Tate Britain offers a quieter walk through British art history. (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.
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.
Take in the view from above
If you want a good view over London, Sky Garden is an easy win. It’s free, indoors, and offers wide views across the city, but you do need to book ahead as tickets are limited.
The Garden at 120 is another favourite. It’s quieter, free to enter, and has lovely skyline views towards the Shard, Tower Bridge and St Paul’s. It’s a good option if you want something low-key.
For an outdoor view, Primrose Hill is hard to beat on a clear February day. It’s less busy than many viewpoints and worth combining with a wander through the surrounding streets.
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!
Running from 7 February to 8 March 2026, the display fills the Princess of Wales Conservatory with thousands of orchids arranged into large-scale installations inspired by Chinese landscapes, wildlife and design traditions. Expect sculptural features referencing dragons, koi carp and pandas, alongside richly planted displays.
As well as the visual spectacle, the festival highlights Kew’s conservation work connected to China’s biodiversity. There are also Orchid After Hours events on selected evenings, which are well worth booking if you want to see the conservatory after dark with added music and performances.
Find more details in my full Kew Gardens guide.
Walk through the 2025 Orchid Festival with me in my Youtube video 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 London Fashion Week takes place from 19 to 23 February 2026 and brings runway shows, presentations and fashion events to venues across central London. Most shows are industry-focused, but it still adds a buzz to the city, particularly around the Strand and Somerset House.
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
February isn’t London at its best weather-wise, but it has a quieter, calmer feel that I really enjoy. It’s a great time for museums, exhibitions and theatre, with fewer crowds and a slower pace. And on the odd clear day, winter walks can be surprisingly lovely. I hope this guide helps you make the most of February in London.
An itinerary for visiting the charming, leafy area of Richmond, London and all the best streets and sights to see.