What to Wear in London, England This Winter

Got a winter trip planned to London, United Kingdom? London can be fun to visit in the winter, but you'll want to make sure you're dressed right. The weather is cold and dry, with temperatures averaging around 47°F (that's 8°C). So what should you wear so you can stay comfy and fit in with the local vibe?

First and foremost, you'll need to dress warmly, as the temperatures can drop below freezing. A coat, scarf, and hat are going to be essential. Layering is also key, so consider wearing a sweater or vest under your coat. Boots with some grip are a good choice of footwear, as they'll keep your feet warm and dry whatever the conditions.

In just a second, I'll share my specific recommendations for exactly what to wear in London in winter—whether you're visiting Buckingham Palace, riding the London Eye, admiring Big Ben, or walking across Tower Bridge.

🔗 What should women wear in London, England in winter?

London in winter is generally cold, and there are a few key items you'll want to pack. Here's what I definitely wouldn't go without: cardigans, long-sleeved shirts, and jeans. With these essentials, you’ll be all set to experience everything London has to offer. And don't forget, The City is a fashion-forward destination, so don't be afraid to show off your style—and pack something classy if you plan to enjoy the nightlife.

🔗 Cardigans

A cardigan is the perfect piece of clothing to pack for a trip to London in winter. They are lightweight, versatile, and easy to care for. Cardigans can be dressed up or down, and they work well in both warm and cool weather. When choosing a cardigan for travel, natural fibers such as cotton or wool are great (though synthetic equivalents can work well too). You mostly just want to look for fabric that breathes well so it will keep you comfortable in all types of weather.

Need some inspiration? Start here:

🔗 Long-sleeved shirts

Long-sleeved shirts are an essential part of any travel wardrobe. They can be dressed up or down, and they offer sun protection on bright days. When choosing a long-sleeved shirt for London, it's important to look for one that is comfortable and breathable. A lightweight cotton shirt is a good option, as it will keep you cool in warm weather and can be layered under a sweater or jacket when the temperature drops. It's also a good idea to choose a shirt in a neutral color that can be easily paired with other items in your suitcase.

Here are a few of my top picks:

🔗 Jeans

You just cannot go wrong with a good pair of jeans. They're comfortable, versatile, and easy to care for—not to mention they always look great. Whatever you're doing in London, jeans will always come in handy. Of course, not all jeans are created equal. Be sure to choose a pair that's comfortable and flattering. If you'll be doing a lot of walking, look for a light-weight denim that won't weigh you down. And if you're hoping to dress up for a nice dinner out, a dark wash denim will always do the trick.

Why not treat yourself before you go:

🔗 What should men wear in London, England in winter?

For guys, here's the list of essentials I recommend you start with: sweaters, long-sleeved shirts, and jeans. With these in your suitcase, I guarantee you will enjoy your trip to London in comfort and style. And if you're planning on going out in the evenings, be sure to bring something nice to wear—City of London has some high-end places you definitely won't want to miss out on.

🔗 Sweaters

Sweaters are super versatile and can be dressed up or down, making them ideal for both day and evening wear in London. They also take up less space than other types of warm clothing, so you can pack more sweaters into your suitcase without sacrificing style. When choosing sweaters for travel, look for ones that are made of wrinkle-resistant fabric, such as Merino wool or cashmere. These materials will help to keep you warm without adding bulk.

Here are a few of my top picks:

🔗 Long-sleeved shirts

Long-sleeved shirts are an essential part of any travel wardrobe. They can be dressed up or down, and they offer sun protection on bright days. When choosing a long-sleeved shirt for London, it's important to look for one that is comfortable and breathable. A lightweight cotton shirt is a good option, as it will keep you cool in warm weather and can be layered under a sweater or jacket when the temperature drops. It's also a good idea to choose a shirt in a neutral color that can be easily paired with other items in your suitcase.

Here's a few ideas to get you started:

🔗 Jeans

You just cannot go wrong with a good pair of jeans. They're comfortable, versatile, and easy to care for—not to mention they always look great. Whatever you're doing in London, jeans will always come in handy. Of course, not all jeans are created equal. Be sure to choose a pair that's comfortable and flattering. If you'll be doing a lot of walking, look for a light-weight denim that won't weigh you down. And if you're hoping to dress up for a nice dinner out, a dark wash denim will always do the trick.

Why not treat yourself before you go:

I hope these recommendations for what to wear in London, England will help make your winter visit unforgettable. Now that you have a better idea of what clothing to take, it's time to pack your suitcase—and then go ahead and enjoy everything London has to offer!