England in March: Weather, Tips, and More

March marks the end of winter and the start of spring in England, ushering in mild weather conditions. Southern regions including London, the capital, have an average daytime temperature of around 11°C (53°F) and an average nighttime temperature of around 4°C (40°F). In the northern regions like Durham, temperatures are only marginally milder. In coastal areas, such as Cornwall and Devon, the weather tends to be cooler, with a daytime average of 7°C (45°F) and a nighttime average of 5°C (41°F). Expect occasional rain showers scattered throughout the country, with the number of rainy days varying from eight to 18 days. Snowfall remains possible in March, especially in the northern and higher elevation areas like the Lake District.

As the calendar turns to March, England awakens with the vibrant promise of spring, offering travelers a delightful tapestry of experiences to relish. Despite the variability in weather, March offers the advantage of fewer crowds and a quieter atmosphere for exploring both urban and rural settings in England. Below are some reasons as to why you should plan your trip to England in March. 

• Spring blooms: March marks the beginning of spring in England, and it is a wonderful time to witness the countryside coming to life with blooming flowers. Daffodils and crocuses are particularly abundant during this season, painting the landscapes with vibrant colors. Botanical gardens and parks, such as the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew, are known for their stunning spring displays.
• Extended museum opening hours: During winter, many museums in England tend to have shorter operating hours, making it challenging for visitors to fully immerse themselves in the cultural and historical treasures they house. However, March brings a change in this pattern, as it marks the first month after winter ends. With the arrival of spring, museums typically extend their opening hours, allowing visitors more time to explore the rich tapestry of art, history, and culture that England has to offer. This means you can spend more leisurely hours perusing world-class collections, from the British Museum in London to the Walker Art Gallery in Liverpool, without feeling rushed by early closing times.
• Low tourist crowds: March, being a transition month from winter to summer, has the distinct advantage of offering travelers a respite from the peak tourist crowds that typically descend upon England during the summer months. You can visit iconic sites like the Tower of London, Windsor Castle, and Stonehenge without the long lines and large crowds. While March is generally less crowded than the peak summer months, you might still encounter tourists in popular tourist destinations like London, Oxford, and Cambridge. 
• Springtime Walks: March is an ideal time for countryside hikes and walking tours in England, especially in picturesque regions like the Lake District, the Cotswolds, and the South Downs, thanks to the extended daylight hours. Exploring the scenic countryside allows you to appreciate the natural beauty of England during its awakening spring season.

England during March is particularly charming as the city's parks begin to show early signs of spring, providing an ideal opportunity for leisurely strolls in Hyde Park or visits to Kew Gardens to witness the first blossoms.

A trip to London during this month allows you to enjoy renowned attractions like the British Museum and Buckingham Palace without enduring long lines as the city is relatively less crowded. The capital is also one of the best places to take in the Easter festivities, considering if it falls in late March and not Early April the year you decide to visit.

The Lake District in March offers a quieter and more peaceful experience, further supported by extended daylight hours, ideal for hikers and nature enthusiasts. March 5th is an ideal day to plan a visit to Cornwall, as its streets come alive with festive celebrations in honor of St. Piran's Day.

Oxford and Cambridge exude academic charm with historic buildings adorned by daffodils and crocuses, and you can enjoy punting on the River Cherwell. The Cotswolds maintain their enchanting allure with cozy villages and stone cottages enhanced by early spring blooms.

March lets you experience England's diverse attractions without the hustle and bustle of peak season. Whether you're a culture enthusiast, a nature lover, or just seeking an escape, England in March beckons with its mild weather and fewer crowds.

For more information and inspiration, check out our England travel guide.