London Weather in May
During May, London experiences moderate daytime temperatures of 18°C (64°F) and cooler nights around 9°C (48°F). Some rainfall is typical during this period.
Rainfall in London in May
Records from the past 30 years suggest around 14 days of rain, with 58 mm (2.3 in) average for the month. The rainfall pattern this month is fairly balanced. Showers tend to be moderate rather than extreme.
Temperature in London in May
London in May gets highs of 18°C (64°F) during the day and drops to 9°C (48°F) at night. Temperatures can feel cooler in the morning and evening, so layering is often the best approach. Nights drop to 9°C (48°F). Cold nights like these are actually great for sleeping well, as long as you have a warm enough duvet.
Sunshine in London in May
Expect sunny days throughout the month, with an estimated 209 hours of sunshine. This makes it a pleasant time to visit London.
Wind Speed in London in May
May has wind speeds averaging 3 m/s (6 knots). You can expect comfortable light winds that steadily move flags and feel mild throughout the day. Since this is an average, daily conditions vary from gentle winds to more active breezes.If your ideal day consists of dry skies and pleasant temperatures, June, July, August and September typically offer the best circumstances for London.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit the United Kingdom, check out our London's climate page.
London Temperature in May
Min Temperature
9°C (48°F)
Max Temperature
18°C (64°F)
Chance of Rain
47%
Precipitation
58 mm (2.3 in)
Rainy days
14 days
Humidity
66%
Windspeed
3 m/s (6 knots)
Sunshine
209 hours
Percentage Sunshine
41%
Daily Historical Temperatures
50-year average (1976-2025)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in London typically rise from around 16°C (61°F) at the start of May to approximately 19°C (66°F) by the end. Nights are cool, with lows typically ranging from 7°C (45°F) to 11°C (52°F).
Average temperatures in May
Daily Historical Precipitation
50-year average (1976-2025)
Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.
Average precipitation in May
Historical weather for London in May
Browse day-by-day weather records for London spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
London historical weather extremes in May
Based on 50 years of weather observations in London between 1976 and 2026, these are the recorded extremes.
- London recorded its highest May temperature of 33°C (91°F) on May 25, 2026.
- The coldest May day was on May 1, 1979, with a maximum of 7°C (45°F).
- The coldest night in May in London was on May 3, 1979, with a minimum of -1°C (30°F).
- The wettest day in May London was on May 11, 2016 with 23 mm (0.9 in) of precipitation.
Best Places in the United Kingdom in May
Find out more about the weather in the United Kingdom and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of the United Kingdom in May →
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What to Wear in London in May
For London in May, you'll want flexible clothing. It's wise to pack cotton shirts, comfortable shorts, and a pair of jeans for cooler evenings. A light sweater or jacket is useful for air-conditioned spaces (like buses) or unexpected cool moments. Rain is likely on several days, so bring a good rain jacket. Don't forget sun protection, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat. These are all good ideas with this much sunshine.What To Do in London in May
We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit the United Kingdom, check out our London's climate page.
Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity Wind Speed
See the full London climate overview or explore weather in the United Kingdom.
