Visiting London in March: What to Pack, Weather, Events & Things to Do (2023)

In like a lion, out like a lamb… is the proverb that describes the month of March and how the weather improves as it goes on. That’s certainly the case for London, where winter lets go of its cold, rainy grip as the days pass and young blooms herald the new season by month’s end.

March is a lovely time to visit London, as the days are increasingly long, warm, and sunny. From more outdoor activities to indoor backup plans should the last damp vestiges of winter linger, there’s plenty to do when visiting London in March.

When I lived in London, March was my favorite season, since it’s when the funny yellow daffodils bloom and wake the city back up after hibernation. Across the city, Londoners switch from winter coats to lighter ones, and it’s a great opportunity to visit before summer crowds arrive.

If you’re planning a trip to London in March, this guide will help you prepare. Below you’ll find tips on the weather and how long days are, as well as what to pack and things to do in London in March. As always, you can also ask any questions you still have after reading in the comments below.

​​March Sunrise & Sunset Times in London

Knowing how long the days are in March will come in handy when you’re planning your London trip. It will help you to better organize your itinerary and see how many activities you can fit in a day. 

March is a transition month as the city goes from winter to spring. Daylight hours increase by almost 2 hours between March 1st and 31st, allowing more time for outdoor activities. 

Below you’ll find a chart of sunrise and sunset times in London in March:

If seeing a sunrise or sunset during your London visit sounds like an activity you’d like to include in your itinerary, be sure to check my guides on the best places to see the sunrise and the best places to view the sunset.

London March Weather & Temperature

Despite being a transition month, March is still on the cold side. The average London temperature in March tends to be between 39°F (4°C) and 50°F (10°C). Remember that the earlier you visit, the colder the temperatures you’ll experience. 

As for precipitation, March is quite a rainy month. There are about 10 days of precipitation in March, but the good news is that the rain tends to drizzle or showers. 

What to Pack for London in March

Packing the right clothes is essential to have a comfortable trip, which is why I’ve included a detailed guide on what clothes to wear in London in March.

When planning what to pack for London in March, I suggest you pack layers, so you can adjust your outfit according to the outside temperature. 

• Pack two sets of long-sleeve, natural fiber shirts as base layers; I love Unbound Merino’s tops which are super warm and also odor-reducing so you won’t need to worry about washing them during your trip.
• Bring a sweater and a hoodie, as well as a raincoat – I love this Pendleton slicker which is totally waterproof. 
• If you’re not used to cold weather, a beanie and a scarf will be great allies to keep you warm. 
• Pack a pair of trousers and two pairs of jeans. 
• You don’t want the rain to stop you from getting to know the marvelous city that London is. So bring an umbrella and your rain boots.
• Bring a pair of comfortable shoes. While you’ll be relying a lot on public transportation during your trip, you’ll spend lots of time walking around. 
• Pack a fancy outfit. Some venues and restaurants in London are fashionable and you’ll have to dress up.  

8 Great Events in London in March 2023

Like every month, the city renews its calendar with fun things to do. Below you’ll find eight great events you can do while visiting London in March. 

Orchids Festival at Kew Gardens (4 February – 5 March)

The botanic marvel of Kew Gardens becomes even more beautiful during the Kew Orchid Festival. For a month, the botanic garden hosts a festival dedicated to celebrating and admiring the orchid. 2023’s festival will focus on the wildlife and culture of Cameroon. There will be an amazing array of colorful orchids, towering sculptures made with real plants, flower arrangements, and exhibits on Cameroon’s wildlife and landscape.

St Patrick’s Day (March 17)

On March 17th, London dons green to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. Join fellow Londoners and celebrate Irish culture with a four-leaf clover painted on your cheek and a pint of Guinness in your hand.

This annual celebration is a great opportunity to learn about a small slice of Irish culture. There will be Irish-themed parties, comedy events, and of course the St Patrick’s parade, where emerald-green floats show off the best of Irish traditional dance and music.

Eat & Drink Festival (March 17 – April 2)

For the foodies out there, the best event you can attend in London in March is the Eat & Drink Festival. This festival celebrates the best of modern cuisine. There will be stalls selling top fresh produce, world-famous chefs cooking their favorite dishes, drink makers giving tips on food pairing, and masterclasses to hone your culinary skills and bring new dishes ideas back home.

The Head of the River Race (March 18)

The Head of the River Race is a rowing race held on the River Thames. Every March, 400 crews of eight meander down the cold waters of London’s famous river. The race summons some of the best UK crews and foreign clubs. The competition starts at 10 am and lasts for about two hours. Find a spot on the banks of the Thames or along one of London’s iconic bridges and cheer for your favorite club.

Global Recycling Day (March 18)

Learn about the importance of recycling and sustainability with Global Recycling Day. It isn’t confirmed yet if there will be an official launch event in London for Global Recycling Day. However, you’ll find tons of events and activities across the city to get immersed in the recycling world, learn how you can help with the cause, and much more.

Retro Games Fair (March 19)

Bring back some of your best childhood memories at the Retro Games Fair. The London  Retro Games Fair reunites hundreds of stalls brimming with the consoles and video games that filled your afternoons in the 80s. There will also be exhibitors selling gaming artwork, apparel, and even imported games you won’t find anywhere else.

The Boat Race (March 25)

If you missed the Head of the River Race, you could attend The Boat Race. This annual race has become a classic in London’s cultural calendar. In fact, it is one of the world’s oldest and most famous amateur sporting events. You’ll witness the UK’s two greatest universities, Cambridge University Boat Club and the Oxford University Boat Club, rowing against each other. Who’ll you cheer for?

See Daffodils & Tulips (Late March)

Visiting London in March gives you the chance to experience one of the most colorful moments of the English capital. Despite being a huge city, London is home to fields both large and small of daffodils and tulips.

You can find rows of daffodils and tulips in parks, standing in front of the pastel-colored houses in Notting Hill, and even in random corners. No matter where you find them, you’ll have a great Instagram post, that’s for sure. I have a complete guide to where you can find both daffodils and tulips in London.

7 Other Things to Do in London in March

If you don’t fancy attending some of the events mentioned above, here are other cool things to do in London in March.

1. Celebrate Mother’s Day with a quintessentially British afternoon tea.
2. Catch a play or show at the West End. 
3. Don’t miss out on unique exhibits across London’s many fantastic museums.
4. If the weather is good, grab a hamper and have a picnic in one of London’s parks.
5. If the weather is not good – or if it is, no judgment! – grab a pint in one of the city’s historic pubs.
6. Sip a cocktail with a view, from one of London’s rooftop bars, or learn to make your own.
7. As the weather improves and the days get longer, it’s a lovely time to go for a walk. How about the London Wall walk, or a stroll along one of London’s canals?

Have any other questions about how to visit London in March? Let me know in the comments!