Climatological averages, historical records, packing tips and best time to visit London during October. AEMET / ECMWF reanalysis 1991-2020.
Reference values based on 1991-2020 AEMET / ECMWF climatology. Year-to-year variation can be significant.
| Metric | Value | Date |
|---|---|---|
| All-time high | 40.2 C | July 2022 |
| Heatwave record | 37.9 C | August 2003 |
| All-time low | -13.2 C | January 1962 |
| 24h rainfall | 75 mm | September 1968 |
Official records (AEMET / Met Office / Meteo France). Secondary stations may have more extreme readings.
In October, London typically shows crisp autumn with falling leaves. The average high temperature is around 15°C and the average low around 9°C, with monthly rainfall of 69 mm spread over roughly 12 rain days and about 107 hours of sunshine. Average relative humidity stands at 84% and wind speed averages 13 km/h.
The local calendar in October is shaped by Halloween events across the city, so checking the forecast a few days in advance is worth it before any outdoor activity. Averages give a general picture but extreme events can vary widely: in October, London has recorded both unusually warm spells and cold incursions across recent decades.
For a typical stay we recommend warm coat and scarf. UV protection is sensible on sunny days, even in a mild winter month, and a closed-toe waterproof shoe helps on damp days. For multi-day trips bring thin layers that you can combine through the day.
The first two weeks of October usually offer the best balance in London: moderate crowds, friendlier prices and weather that remains representative of the month. Late October starts showing features of the transition to the next month. Use our custom historical lookup to check the actual values for the exact year you plan to travel.