If you are planning a trip to London in February, then this guide will walk you through everything important — from the weather and daylight hours to the best things to do, special events, where to stay, and answers to the most common questions people ask before visiting.
February is still a winter month in London, so you can expect cold temperatures, light rain, and sometimes a bit of snow. Daylight hours slowly start increasing, but the days are still shorter compared to spring and summer. This is also a quieter travel month, which means fewer crowds, easier bookings, and better hotel prices — perfect if you want a calm and budget-friendly visit.
One of the biggest highlights of February is Valentine’s Day. London turns into a romantic city with plenty of special experiences. You’ll find everything from dinner cruises on the Thames, rooftop meals, and romantic walks to unique activities like afternoon-tea bus tours, theatre-plus-dining shows, and even a champagne ride on the London Eye. Whether you’re a couple or just looking for fun February events, there is something for everyone.
Along with Valentine’s celebrations, you can enjoy London’s classic attractions, museums, markets, and parks — most of which are perfect for colder weather. Indoor activities like museums, cafés, shopping centres, and historic landmarks make February a comfortable month to explore without worrying too much about the cold.
Top 3 London Tours in February
- ⭐️ PRIVATE TOUR – Discover Real London black cab tour of London
- 🇬🇧 HOP ON HOP OFF BUS – City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
- 🥟 FOOD TOUR – Ultimate Food Tour of Borough Market
Visiting London in February – What to Expect
Weather of London in February
London experiences cold and wet conditions throughout February, with rain falling on most days of the month. Temperatures stay quite cool, typically reaching highs around 47°F to 49°F during the day. The coldest days can drop to about 34°F, so you’ll feel the winter chill.
The city receives moderate rainfall during this month, with about 43 millimeters of precipitation. Cloudy skies dominate most days, covering the city about two-thirds of the time. You’ll notice the dampness in the air, as humidity levels stay high between 79% and 87%.
Daylight remains limited during February, with the sun shining for only 3 to 5 hours each day. Gray skies appear frequently, though you might catch some bright spells between the clouds. The wind blows steadily, making the temperature feel colder than the thermometer shows.
You should pack warm winter clothing for your visit. Bring thick coats, scarves, gloves, and waterproof boots with good grip. The pavements can become slippery when wet or icy, so proper footwear helps you walk safely around the city. Rain or snow falls on about 15 to 16 days during the month. This wet weather creates a damp atmosphere throughout London. Despite these conditions, you can still enjoy visiting the city if you dress appropriately and plan for indoor activities during heavy rainfall.
Read About : London in December
Daylight Hours
London receives limited daylight during February, with the sun staying visible for only 8 to 9 hours each day. The sun rises around 7:25 in the morning and sets by 4:05 in the afternoon at the beginning of the month. Days gradually become longer as February progresses, giving you more light to enjoy. The short winter days mean you experience long periods of darkness.
Night lasts approximately 15 to 16 hours daily, which creates a noticeable difference from summer months. The sun reaches its highest point in the sky around midday, but it stays quite low on the horizon throughout the day.
Twilight adds some extra brightness before sunrise and after sunset. Civil twilight provides enough light for outdoor activities without artificial lighting during these transition periods. This extra glow extends your usable daylight by roughly 30 to 40 minutes in the morning and evening.
The limited sunshine affects how you plan your day in London. Most daylight hours occur during typical working hours, so outdoor sightseeing works best between 10 AM and 3 PM. You need to schedule outdoor activities carefully to make the most of the available light.
February marks a turning point as days slowly grow longer. Each day gains about 2 to 3 minutes of additional sunlight compared to the previous day. By the end of the month, you notice the difference as sunset shifts closer to 5 PM, giving you more time for evening activities.
What to Wear in London in February
You need to dress warmly for London’s cold February weather. Start with a good winter coat that reaches your knees to protect you from the chill and damp conditions. Choose a coat that feels lightweight enough to carry easily when you step into heated buildings or ride the warm Underground trains.
Layer your clothing to stay comfortable throughout the day. Wear long-sleeved shirts or thermal underwear as your base layer, then add sweaters or fleece on top. Buildings and public transport get very hot inside, so you can remove layers when needed and put them back on when you go outside again.
Pack warm accessories to protect yourself from the cold. Bring a thick scarf to cover your neck, warm gloves or mittens for your hands, and a wool or knit hat for your head. These items make a huge difference in keeping you comfortable during outdoor activities.
Choose sturdy footwear with good grip for walking around the city. Wear waterproof boots that rise above your ankles to keep your feet warm and dry. The pavements can become icy and slippery during February, so your shoes need reliable traction. Bring an extra pair of comfortable walking shoes for dry days.
Remember to pack thermal layers if you feel cold easily. Long underwear worn beneath your regular clothes provides extra warmth without adding bulk. These thermal pieces also help keep you dry if you get caught in rain or snow.
Bring waterproof protection since London’s weather changes quickly. Pack an umbrella and consider rain boots for wet days. Even though February sees less rain than other months, sudden showers can still surprise you during your visit.
Avoid February Half Term Crowds
February half term brings families to London’s popular spots. British schools close for one week in mid-February, usually the third week of the month. During this break, families flood attractions because parents cannot take children out during regular school time. Lines at popular places become very long. You need smart planning to avoid the busiest times and locations.
Visit attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon before closing time. These hours see fewer visitors compared to midday rushes. Book your tickets online ahead of time to skip entrance queues. Choose weekdays over weekends when possible. Some attractions also stagger their half term dates, so crowds spread out slightly. Paid attractions like towers and palaces stay less crowded than free family spots during school breaks.
Skip the most popular family attractions during half term week. Large groups of children visit certain places during this period. Instead, explore neighborhoods, markets, galleries, and adult-focused venues that families with young kids avoid. You can also plan your London trip for the weeks before or after half term.
January and early February offer quieter visits with better hotel deals. This simple timing change helps you enjoy the city without fighting through crowds.
Is It Snow in February in London
Snow does fall in London during February, though it remains quite rare. The city typically experiences a few snowy days throughout the month, but heavy snowfall hardly ever occurs. When snow does appear, it usually melts quickly and rarely stays on the ground for long.
The urban heat island effect causes temperatures in central London to stay slightly warmer than surrounding areas, which means snow accumulates more in the suburbs than in the city center.
Is February a Good Time to Visit the UK?
February offers a mixed experience for UK visitors, depending on what you value most. This month sits firmly in the low season, which brings both advantages and challenges for travelers planning a trip.
The biggest advantage comes from cost savings. Flight prices drop significantly after the holiday season ends, and hotels offer much better rates than summer months. Budget travelers find February ideal for experiencing London, Edinburgh, and other major cities without spending heavily on accommodation. Many stores also run sales during this period, adding extra value for shoppers.
Crowds thin out considerably in February, making it easier to enjoy popular attractions without long queues. Museums, galleries, and historic sites become far more pleasant to explore when you’re not competing with summer tourists. You can take your time at places like the British Museum, Tower of London, or Edinburgh Castle without feeling rushed.
Things to do in February in London
Chinese New Year
The most important celebration on the lunar calendar brings families together and welcomes fresh beginnings each year. This ancient festival marks the start of spring and holds deep cultural significance for billions of people worldwide.
The festival dates change annually because they follow the moon’s cycles rather than the regular calendar. In 2026, celebrations will begin on February 17, marking the Year of the Horse. Each year connects to one of twelve zodiac animals that rotate in a continuous cycle.
The zodiac system assigns specific traits to each animal. Horses represent energy, independence, and adventurous spirit. People born during horse years display enthusiasm, love freedom, and embrace bold challenges. The upcoming celebration will feature the Fire Horse, a dynamic combination that appears once every twelve years. Fire as an element adds courage, passion, and innovation to the horse’s natural characteristics.
Ancient legend explains why certain colors and sounds fill the celebrations. Stories tell of a fierce beast that terrorized villages at the year’s end. Villagers discovered the creature feared loud noises, bright lights, and the color red. They used these elements to drive away danger and protect their homes. This tale explains why red decorations, fireworks, and crackling firecrackers remain central to modern celebrations.
Read More here : Chinese New Year
Canary Wharf Ice Rink
The Canary Wharf Ice Rink operates as London’s longest running seasonal skating venue. The rink opens in late October and stays active until late February each year, giving visitors about 18 weeks to enjoy skating. This extended season runs much longer than most other London ice rinks, which typically close in early January.
You can glide across the ice beneath the towering skyscrapers of Canary Wharf’s business district. The rink sits in Canada Square Park and covers a large area, providing plenty of space for skaters. A transparent roof covers the entire venue, protecting you from rain, wind, and snow while you skate. Twinkling lights illuminate the ice and create a magical atmosphere after dark.
The rink welcomes skaters aged four and above, regardless of skill level. Each skating session lasts 45 minutes, giving you enough time to practice your moves or simply glide around at your own pace. Children can use penguin or snowman skating aids to help them balance on the ice. The venue also accommodates wheelchair users who want to experience ice skating.
Throughout the season, the rink hosts themed events and special nights. You might skate during Halloween celebrations, enjoy music from different decades, or visit during Valentine’s Day for a romantic evening. A disco ball hangs from the ceiling and casts shimmering reflections across the ice while you move.
Valentine’s Day
London transforms into a romantic destination for Valentine’s Day celebrations on February 14th. The city offers countless ways to spend this special day with your loved one, whether you prefer traditional romance or unique adventures together. You can enjoy romantic dinners at some of London’s finest restaurants.
Many establishments create special Valentine’s menus featuring multiple courses, from starters through desserts, accompanied by champagne or cocktails. Fine dining venues across the city prepare intimate atmospheres with candlelight and elegant decor to make your evening memorable.
Thames River cruises provide classic romantic experiences during Valentine’s Day. You can board boats for afternoon tea cruises with sandwiches and cakes, or choose evening dinner cruises featuring three-course meals with live music. These cruises let you see London’s famous landmarks pass by while you enjoy time together on the water.
The city’s rooftop bars and restaurants offer spectacular views paired with cocktails and meals. You can watch the sunset over London’s skyline from elevated venues, creating picture-perfect moments with your partner. Many rooftops feature heated spaces and special Valentine’s arrangements.
Adventure seekers can try unique date activities throughout London. Ice skating rinks stay open during February, allowing couples to glide across the ice together. Museums host special late-night events where you can wander galleries after dark with drinks in hand. Some venues arrange immersive experiences like bubble exhibits, happiness museums, and interactive art installations.
Join the Largest Lunar New Year Celebration Outside of Asia
London hosts the biggest Lunar New Year festivities outside of Asia each February. Hundreds of thousands of people gather in the West End to celebrate this important cultural event together. The London Chinatown Chinese Association organizes these massive celebrations that started as a small community gathering over 20 years ago and have grown into one of London’s most spectacular annual events.
The main festivities take place across Trafalgar Square, Chinatown, and Shaftesbury Avenue during the first weekend following the Lunar New Year date. A grand parade kicks off the celebrations at 10am, starting from the northeastern corner of Trafalgar Square. More than 50 teams join the colorful procession, featuring handmade floats, dragon dance troupes, and performers wearing traditional costumes. The parade travels north along Charing Cross Road, then turns into Shaftesbury Avenue before ending in Chinatown around midday.
You can watch Europe’s largest gathering of Chinese lions and dragons perform their spectacular dances along the route. Performers work closely together to create mesmerizing displays that captivate crowds lining the streets.
Lion dance performances begin on Saturday throughout Chinatown, building excitement before the main parade on Sunday. The traditional lion’s eye-dotting ceremony takes place in Chinatown after the parade concludes, marking an important moment in the celebrations. This ritual symbolizes awakening the lions and bringing good fortune for the year ahead.
Five hours of cultural performances fill Trafalgar Square throughout the afternoon. You can watch Beijing Opera, martial arts demonstrations, acrobatics, magic shows, and traditional dances performed by artists from China and talented British-Chinese performers. Multiple stages appear on Shaftesbury Avenue and Charing Cross Road, giving you various spots to enjoy the entertainment.
Celebrate LGBTQ+ History Month
London celebrates LGBTQ+ History Month every February with hundreds of events across the city. This annual observance honors the contributions and achievements of the LGBTQ+ community while raising awareness about queer history and culture. The month marks its 20th anniversary in 2025, having started in 2005 as an educational initiative.
The celebration began to coincide with the abolition of Section 28 in 2003, a law that previously banned the promotion of homosexuality in schools. Each year focuses on a specific theme, and 2025 highlights Activism and Social Change, recognizing LGBTQ+ activists who helped advance society for everyone.
Museums across London host special exhibitions and tours throughout February. The British Museum offers trails exploring queer history through ancient artifacts and artworks. Queer Britain, the UK’s first dedicated LGBTQ+ museum in King’s Cross, displays free exhibitions featuring objects and images covering over 100 years of queer life. The National Maritime Museum presents Out at Sea, a week-long festival celebrating queer maritime history through creative workshops, performances, and storytelling.
Walking tours guide visitors through London’s queer past. Expert-led tours explore Westminster, Bloomsbury, and other neighborhoods, introducing visitors to historical LGBTQ+ figures from the Stuart period through modern times. These walks uncover hidden stories of trans pioneers, famous writers, and activists who shaped the city’s history.
Cultural venues present diverse programming throughout the month. Theaters stage queer-themed performances, galleries host art workshops, and film clubs screen LGBTQ+ documentaries and features. The Pink Palace film club at the Rio Cinema shows queer films weekly for just five pounds, featuring everything from historical documentaries to modern dramas.
Head to One of London’s Many Museums
London offers over 190 museums perfect for escaping February’s cold weather. The city holds some of the world’s most visited museums, giving you endless options for indoor exploration. Many major museums charge no entry fees, making cultural visits affordable for everyone.
The British Museum stands as London’s most popular museum, attracting millions of visitors each year. You can explore ancient treasures from around the world, including the Rosetta Stone, Egyptian mummies, and sculptures from the Parthenon. The museum opens daily from 10am until 5pm, with late hours until 8:30pm on Fridays.
The Natural History Museum brings Earth’s living wonders to life through spectacular displays. Dinosaur galleries captivate visitors of all ages, while the massive blue whale model hangs impressively in the main hall. Scientists work in the state-of-the-art Darwin Centre, where you can watch research happening in real time. Interactive galleries and simulators make learning fun for families.
Tate Modern transforms a former power station into a stunning contemporary art gallery. The massive Turbine Hall hosts large-scale installations that change throughout the year. You can admire works by famous artists like Picasso, Warhol, and Rothko while exploring multiple floors of modern and contemporary art.
The Victoria and Albert Museum dazzles visitors with its vast collections of art and design. Five thousand years of human creativity fill the galleries, showcasing everything from ancient ceramics and fashion to jewelry and wallpapers. The striking building itself serves as a work of art.
Concerts and Festivals in London in February 2026
ABBA Voyage
ABBA Voyage brings the legendary Swedish pop group back to life through groundbreaking digital technology. This revolutionary concert experience runs throughout February at the purpose-built ABBA Arena in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. The show recreates Agnetha, Björn, Benny, and Anni-Frid as digital avatars performing their greatest hits.
The concert uses cutting-edge motion capture technology created by Industrial Light & Magic, the visual effects company behind Star Wars and Marvel films. Digital versions of ABBA perform alongside a live 10-piece band, creating a spectacular blend of physical and virtual entertainment. The four band members carefully planned every detail to give fans the best version of themselves.
You can watch ABBA perform their biggest hits during the 90-minute show without any interval. The setlist includes Dancing Queen, Mamma Mia, The Winner Takes It All, Waterloo, Does Your Mother Know, SOS, Lay All Your Love On Me, and Voulez-Vous. The band recently added new tracks to keep the concert fresh, including The Name of the Game, Money Money Money, Super Trouper, and Take a Chance on Me.
Shows run multiple times each week throughout February. Performances take place Monday, Thursday, and Friday at 7:45pm. Saturday offers two shows at 3pm and 7:45pm, while Sunday presents shows at 1pm and 6pm. Doors open one hour and 45 minutes before each performance starts, giving you time for security checks and exploring the venue.
Imagine Children’s Festival at Southbank Centre
The Southbank Centre transforms into one giant playground every February half-term for the Imagine Children’s Festival. This festival stands as the UK’s leading arts celebration for children aged 0 to 11 years and their families. The event runs for several days during the school holidays, packing over 100 activities and performances into the schedule.
The festival presents a diverse program that includes music, storytelling, dance, theatre, comedy, poetry, crafts, and interactive workshops. Children can explore multiple art forms throughout their visit, discovering new interests and talents. Many events remain completely free to attend, making world-class artistic experiences accessible to all families regardless of budget.
You can enjoy performances featuring characters from popular children’s television shows. The BBC Concert Orchestra performs alongside beloved CBeebies characters in special concerts designed for young audiences. Authors of famous children’s books appear for readings and workshops, giving kids the chance to meet the creators behind their favorite stories.
Explore Kew Gardens’ Annual Orchid Festival
Every winter, the famous botanical gardens in London host a spectacular orchid celebration that brings warmth and color to the coldest months. This yearly event transforms the Princess of Wales Conservatory into a tropical paradise filled with thousands of exotic blooms.
The festival runs for several weeks each year, typically during February and March. Each edition focuses on a different country or theme, showcasing the incredible diversity of orchids from around the world. Visitors step into carefully recreated landscapes that represent different ecosystems, from sandy coastlines and dry deserts to towering mountains and lush rainforests.
The displays feature thousands of orchid species in every imaginable color, shape, and size. The exhibition team works for months to create living sculptures that represent animals and landmarks. You can spot creatures crafted from colorful blooms and intricate floral arrangements that tell stories about biodiversity and nature.
Skilled horticulturists arrange the plants with careful attention to texture, color, and scent. Special displays let visitors experience the unique fragrances of rare orchids. These flowers produce perfumes that attract specific pollinators in the wild.
Shows in London in February 2026
Witness for the Prosecution
The show takes place inside London County Hall’s historic chamber, where the Greater London Council once met. The magnificent building sits on the Southbank, offering stunning views across the Thames. Built over a century ago in grand Edwardian style, the former council chamber now serves as the perfect courtroom for this dramatic tale.
You receive a summons for jury service as soon as you book your ticket. The story follows Leonard Vole, a man accused of murdering a wealthy widow to inherit her fortune. As the trial unfolds around you, prosecution battles defense while witnesses deliver shocking testimonies from the stand. The production places you right in the action. Lawyers argue their cases just feet away from your seat. Witnesses take the stand and face intense questioning. The tension builds with each revelation as you try to decide whether the accused deserves to walk free or face the consequences.
The authentic courtroom layout adds incredible atmosphere to the performance. You can choose seats in different areas, each offering its own perspective. The jury box places you closest to the drama, with one lucky audience member even delivering the final verdict. Other seats around the chamber provide excellent views from various angles, just like real court observers.
Actors move throughout the entire space, using all doors and corridors. They rush from one entrance to another, sometimes appearing as different characters within moments. The performances capture the formality and drama of a real trial while delivering the twists and surprises expected from this brilliant storyteller.
Wicked the Musical
The show reveals the untold friendship between two unlikely companions before Dorothy ever arrived. Long before anyone called her wicked, a green-skinned girl met a popular blonde at school. Their friendship shaped their destinies in ways nobody expected, leading one to become known as good and the other as wicked.
The story begins when these two young women meet at university. One arrives with emerald skin and extraordinary powers she cannot control. The other brings charm, beauty, and dreams of popularity. They clash immediately, but circumstances force them together. What starts as rivalry slowly transforms into an unexpected bond that changes both their lives forever.
The music sweeps you into their world from the opening notes. Every song serves the story, building emotion and revealing character. The melodies stay with you long after the final curtain falls. Powerful ballads showcase incredible vocal performances while upbeat numbers bring joy and laughter to the theatre.
Performances run throughout the week with evening shows and weekend matinees. The production runs approximately two hours and forty-five minutes, including one interval. Front row seats become available every Wednesday morning at special prices, offering an affordable way to experience the magic up close.
Rainy Day Activities in February in London
February brings chilly rain to London, but the city offers amazing indoor experiences. You can watch world-class theatre shows in the West End where musicals and plays light up historic stages. The London Eye gives stunning city views from enclosed capsules that keep you warm and dry.
Art galleries display incredible paintings and contemporary works that inspire visitors. Cozy bookshops provide warm refuges where you can browse for hours. These cultural spots keep you entertained while staying completely dry.
Shopping and dining provide perfect rainy day activities. Covered markets like Covent Garden, Borough Market, and Camden Lock offer unique items and delicious food. You can browse vintage fashion, local crafts, and international cuisine under shelter. London’s cozy cafes serve warm drinks where you can relax with a book.
Enjoy Beautiful Restaurants and Bars in London
February brings exciting new dining spots across London. Lucky Cat by Gordon Ramsay opens on the 60th floor of 22 Bishopsgate, making it the capital’s highest restaurant with stunning skyline views. La Môme arrives at The Berkeley hotel, bringing French Riviera glamour with Mediterranean dishes inspired by Provence and Italy.
Alba opens in Knightsbridge near Harrods, capturing Italian coastal vibes with olive, lemon yellow, and terracotta colors plus real citrus trees. Oorja on Shaftesbury Avenue serves casual Indian comfort food with small plates and a special Sunday roast featuring tandoori-spiced beef. These venues combine beautiful interiors with exceptional menus.
The Knave of Clubs pub reopens in Shoreditch with food from Patrick Powell, offering prawn scotch eggs and pastrami sandwiches downstairs, plus refined dining upstairs at One Club Row. Hora launches in Mayfair as a Mediterranean restaurant with Greek-Japanese-Filipino influences from executive chef John Skotidas.
BLOODsports opens in Covent Garden as a sports bar serving burgers and hotdogs with cocktails and karaoke. Ling Ling’s starts a residency at The Bluecoats pub in Tottenham, featuring Chinese-inspired dishes and their famous Sunday roast. Each spot offers unique atmospheres perfect for different moods.
Where to Stay
February offers great hotel deals in London since it falls during the low season. You can find comfortable rooms at lower prices compared to peak summer months. Popular neighborhoods include Covent Garden and Soho for theatre lovers who want to stay in the heart of the action.
South Bank puts you near the Thames with easy walks to major attractions. Paddington offers excellent transport links and local restaurants. Bloomsbury attracts museum fans with its central location. Park Lane and Mayfair provide luxury stays near Hyde Park, though these areas cost more.
CitizenM hotels give excellent value with comfortable beds, modern rooms, and great common areas. The Tower of London location features a rooftop bar with stunning views. Premier Inn offers multiple locations with rooms around reasonable prices per week.
The Treehouse sits on Regent Street near Oxford Street shopping and Regent’s Park. The Standard works well near King’s Cross Station for exploring London and traveling elsewhere in Britain. Park Plaza Westminster Bridge provides riverside views and welcomes families with pets. Sea Containers delivers luxury stays with incredible Thames views from select rooms.
Read Full Here : Where to stay In February