United Kingdom Weather in April

By | February 3, 2025

April in the United Kingdom signifies the transition from the chilly winter to the budding warmth of spring. While the country begins to experience more sunlight, it also comes with frequent weather fluctuations. The UK’s weather is known for its unpredictability in April—sunshine, rain, and even snow can occur within the same day. With mild temperatures overall, April offers a mix of pleasant days and cooler, wet spells, especially in the northern and western regions.

Average Temperatures and Precipitation Over the Past 10 Years

April weather in the United Kingdom can vary, but on the whole, it is a mild month. The south of the country tends to be warmer, while the north is still experiencing the cooler, lingering effects of winter. The following table highlights the average high and low temperatures and precipitation levels across the United Kingdom in April over the past 10 years.

Year Average High Temperature (°C) Average Low Temperature (°C) Average Precipitation (mm)
2015 12.4 4.8 44
2016 11.9 5.2 49
2017 13.0 5.5 52
2018 11.7 4.7 47
2019 12.2 4.5 42
2020 12.5 5.1 51
2021 11.8 4.9 45
2022 12.1 4.8 49
2023 13.2 5.3 44
2024 12.3 4.7 48

Weather Patterns in April

General Weather Conditions

April is a transitional month where the United Kingdom experiences a mix of milder spring conditions and residual chilly days. As the month progresses, the UK begins to see longer daylight hours and more sunshine, but rain remains common. While southern regions such as London and the Southeast tend to be warmer and sunnier, northern and western regions, including Scotland and Wales, can expect more frequent rainfall and cooler temperatures.

  • Southern England (London, Brighton, Southampton): In southern England, April generally sees mild temperatures. Daytime highs typically range from 10°C (50°F) to 14°C (57°F), with nighttime lows between 4°C (39°F) and 7°C (45°F). While the weather is milder compared to the rest of the country, April in the south still brings occasional rainfall, with an average of 40-50 mm of precipitation. However, sunny days are also common, particularly towards the end of the month.
  • Northern England (Manchester, Leeds, Sheffield): In northern England, the weather in April is still quite variable, with daytime highs averaging around 9°C (48°F) to 12°C (54°F) and lows of 4°C (39°F) to 6°C (43°F). Rain showers are frequent, and the northern part of the country is often windier than the south. Snow is not common but can occasionally make an appearance in the higher altitudes of the Pennines or North Yorkshire Moors.
  • Scotland (Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness): Scotland experiences cooler temperatures in April, with highs ranging from 7°C (45°F) to 10°C (50°F) and lows between 2°C (36°F) and 4°C (39°F). While snow is less likely at lower altitudes, it is still possible in the mountainous regions, particularly in the Highlands. Rainfall in Scotland tends to be higher compared to other parts of the UK, averaging around 50-60 mm in April.
  • Wales (Cardiff, Snowdonia): Wales has a climate similar to northern England, with April bringing cool temperatures and frequent rainfall. Daytime highs average 9°C (48°F) to 11°C (52°F), and lows are around 4°C (39°F) to 6°C (43°F). Snow can occasionally occur in the higher regions of Snowdonia, but the weather remains primarily rainy, with an average of 45-55 mm of precipitation.

Precipitation Levels

April in the United Kingdom is one of the wetter months, with rainfall being common across the country, though it is usually in the form of light showers. The rain is more frequent in western and northern regions, while the southeast generally experiences milder conditions with less precipitation. The frequency of rain showers varies, but the weather remains relatively unpredictable, and occasional longer spells of rain can occur.

  • Southern England: In southern regions such as London, average precipitation levels are between 40 mm and 50 mm in April. While the rain is generally light and short-lived, longer rain spells can occur, especially towards the middle of the month.
  • Northern England and Wales: The northern and western parts of the country tend to receive more precipitation in April, ranging from 45 mm to 60 mm. The wettest regions tend to be in the west, especially along the coasts of Wales and the Lake District, where rainfall can exceed 60 mm in some locations.
  • Scotland: Scotland is typically one of the wettest areas in the UK during April, with rainfall ranging from 50 mm to 70 mm, especially in the western parts and the Highlands. Rain is frequent, but the snowfalls tend to be limited to higher altitudes.

Wind Patterns

April in the United Kingdom generally sees moderate winds, which can feel particularly chilly in the northern regions and coastal areas. The westerly winds that blow across the country often bring wet weather, particularly to western Scotland and Wales.

  • Southern England: Winds in southern England are typically moderate, coming from the west or southwest. Wind speeds average around 10 km/h to 15 km/h (6 mph to 9 mph), but gusts can occasionally be stronger, particularly along the coast.
  • Northern and Central England: Wind speeds are slightly stronger in the north and central parts of England, averaging 15 km/h to 20 km/h (9 mph to 12 mph), with occasional gusts up to 30 km/h (18 mph), particularly in areas like the Pennines.
  • Scotland and Wales: The windiest areas of the UK in April tend to be Scotland and Wales, where gusts can exceed 30 km/h (18 mph), particularly in the coastal regions and the Highlands. These areas can experience stronger, more persistent winds during April, adding to the cooler temperatures.

Atmospheric Pressure

Atmospheric pressure in the UK during April can fluctuate with the changing weather systems, especially as low-pressure systems move in from the Atlantic Ocean. The northern and western regions experience more variations in atmospheric pressure due to the proximity of storm systems. In contrast, the southern and eastern areas tend to experience more stable weather, with higher pressure systems providing brief spells of clearer, drier weather.

  • Low-Pressure Systems: The frequent passage of low-pressure systems in April brings wet and windy weather to the UK, particularly in the west and north. These systems are responsible for the rain showers and cooler temperatures during this month.
  • High-Pressure Systems: Occasionally, high-pressure systems move over the southern parts of the UK, resulting in dry, sunny spells that can offer relief from the rain and cooler conditions.

Considerations for Travelers in April

Health Precautions

While April’s weather is generally mild, travelers should be aware of the potential for unpredictable rain and cool winds. The fluctuating temperatures, particularly in the northern and higher-altitude areas, may increase the risk of catching a cold or experiencing discomfort in windy or wet conditions.

To avoid illness, it is important to dress in layers, carry an umbrella or raincoat, and ensure you stay hydrated. If hiking or exploring nature, make sure to pack sturdy footwear and waterproof clothing to stay dry and comfortable.

Clothing and Gear

When visiting the UK in April, packing for unpredictable weather is essential. It’s recommended to bring a mix of light, breathable clothing for warmer days, as well as warmer layers like sweaters, scarves, and jackets for the cooler evenings. A waterproof jacket, sturdy shoes, and an umbrella will help you deal with the frequent rain showers.

For northern and high-altitude regions, pack warmer clothing, as temperatures can dip, particularly at night. You might also want to pack gloves and a hat if you’re heading to higher elevations or exploring remote areas in Scotland and Wales.

Currency and Costs

The currency used in the United Kingdom is the British Pound (GBP). Credit cards are widely accepted in cities and major towns, but smaller villages and rural areas may require cash, especially for small purchases or at local markets. ATMs are easily found in urban centers, but if traveling to more remote areas, it’s advisable to carry sufficient cash.

Costs in the UK vary, with London being the most expensive city, followed by other major cities like Edinburgh and Manchester. Accommodation prices, dining, and transportation can add up quickly, but budget options such as hostels and affordable public transportation are available.

Safety and Political Considerations

The United Kingdom is generally safe for travelers. However, it’s important to remain vigilant, particularly in large cities, where pickpocketing can occur in crowded places such as public transport or tourist attractions. Stay aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secured.

The political climate in the UK is stable, but it’s always worth checking for any local disruptions or strikes, especially in major cities, before traveling. It’s also recommended to stay informed about any changes in travel advice or health-related restrictions, particularly in light of potential weather-related disruptions or emergencies.

Transportation

The UK has an excellent transportation system, including buses, trains, subways (in major cities), and domestic flights. Traveling by train is often the easiest way to get between cities, particularly in England, Scotland, and Wales. The rail network is efficient, and train tickets can be booked in advance for discounts.

In major cities like London, public transport is extensive, including buses, trains, and the Underground. Car rentals are also available, though they are not recommended for those unfamiliar with driving in the UK, especially in urban areas.

Things to Do in the United Kingdom in April

1. Explore the Countryside

April is an ideal time to visit the UK’s beautiful countryside, particularly areas like the Lake District, Cotswolds, or the Scottish Highlands. The weather is perfect for hiking, cycling, and exploring nature. Spring flowers bloom in gardens and parks, making it a beautiful time to visit the countryside.

2. Visit London’s Iconic Attractions

London’s famous landmarks, such as Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, and the British Museum, are all open in April. The city’s pleasant spring weather makes it an excellent time to explore the vibrant cultural scene, visit local markets, and take leisurely strolls in parks like Hyde Park and Regent’s Park.

3. Experience Scottish Festivals

Scotland comes alive in April with a variety of cultural events, including the Edinburgh International Science Festival. You can also explore the scenic beauty of the Highlands, visit historic castles, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow.

4. Enjoy the Coastal Beauty of Wales

Wales offers stunning coastal walks in April, with the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park being a top choice for outdoor enthusiasts. The weather is perfect for exploring castles and hiking trails, as well as discovering the beauty of the Welsh coastline.

5. Take a Historic Tour in Oxford and Cambridge

April is a great time to visit the historic university cities of Oxford and Cambridge. Explore the world-renowned university buildings, enjoy a punt on the river, or visit the local museums and galleries that offer insight into British history and culture.

The United Kingdom in April offers a great mix of cultural experiences, outdoor activities, and historical exploration. Whether you’re visiting cities or the countryside, the mild spring weather makes it a perfect time to enjoy all that this beautiful country has to offer.