UK weather in December 2024

No one takes a pre-Christmas break in the UK for the December weather alone but there are places, namely along England's south coast, that enjoy relatively drier, slightly milder conditions than others.

  • 46°F maximum daytime temperature in December in UK (London)46
    46°F max day temperature
  • 1 hour of sunshine per day
  • 14 days with some rainfall in December in UK (London)14
    14 days with some rainfall
  • 36°F minimum night-time temperature in December in UK (London)36
    36°F min night temperature
  • 8 hours of daylight per day in December in UK (London)8
    8 hours of daylight per day
  • No heat & humidity in December in UK (London)0
    No heat & humidity
  • 2.3 inches monthly rainfall in December in UK (London)2.3
    2.3 inches of monthly rainfall
  • No UV (maximum) index in December in UK (London)0
    No UV (Maximum) Index UV index

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The December weather guide for UK (London) shows long term weather averages processed from data supplied by CRU (University of East Anglia), the Met Office & the Netherlands Meteorological Institute. Find out more about our data sources.

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Top 10 UK places to go in December

December is a great time to experience some of the many popular seaside destinations in the UK minus the summer crowds with a bit of added festive flair.

Here, you'll find our pick of the top places to go in the UK in December for everything from Christmas markets and culture to breezy coastal walks and quirky shops.

  1. Bognor Regis, West Sussex
  2. Isle of Wight
  3. Bournemouth, Dorset
  4. Salcombe, Devon
  5. St Davids, Pembrokeshire, Wales
  6. Canterbury, Kent
  7. Winchester, Hampshire
  8. Hastings, East Sussex
  9. Lyme Regis, Jurassic Coast
  10. St Andrews, Fife, Scotland

1. Bognor Regis, West Sussex, England

The seaside town of Bognor Regis may be synonymous with the Great British Beach Break, donkey rides and all, but there's plenty of reasons to visit out of season too.

Situated on England's south coast in West Sussex, the beach at Bognor Regis is no less beautiful in winter. In fact, if you wrap up warm and take a stroll along the sands at dusk, you could be treated to one mighty fine winter's sunset from the west.

Winter sunset on a flat calm sea in Bognor Regis
Winter sunset on a flat calm sea in Bognor Regis © j054lm0n - Flickr CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

Within the town, Bognor Regis Museum, which charts the evolution of the Bognor Regis from a small-time fishing village to a booming seaside resort, awaits along with the landscaped features of scenic Hotham Park.

Of course, the institution that is Bultin's is also on hand in December to entertain all ages. Even if you're not staying, you could still book a day pass to the resort to enjoy the traditional funfair, Splash Waterworld, daytime performances, soft play areas and other activities.

Outwith Bognor Regis, the towns of Portsmouth, Chichester and Brighton are all within easy reach, while the nearby South Downs Way makes for an excellent day out on two feet.

Bognor Regis in December

  • Usually 46°F maximum daytime temperature in Bognor Regis in December46
    46°F maximum daytime temperature
  • 2 hours of sunshine per day
  • Usually 16 days with some rainfall in Bognor Regis in December16
    16 days with some rainfall
  • 3.1 inches monthly rainfall in Bognor Regis in December3.1
    3.1 inches monthly rainfall

About Bognor Regis >>

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2. Isle of Wight, England

Much like Bognor Regis, the Isle of Wight is loved for its glorious beaches and ample sunshine in summer but, if you pile on the layers, a seaside stroll in December is hard to beat. However, there are plenty of other activities for all the family from shopping in local boutiques to visiting museums.

Historic sites include much-loved Osborne House, the stunning private holiday home of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, built as a retreat for the royals in the mid-19th century.

Out and about, the island's walking trails remain inviting: tackle sections of the 67-mile-long Coastal Path for epic sea views or stomp along The Ridgeway, a route that runs across the breadth of the island along a high chalk seam.

Alternatively, get your fresh air fix by looking up at the night sky. As a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the Isle of Wight has some of the UK's darkest skies, which makes it a wonderful place to try some stargazing in winter. Be sure to download this handy stargazing map to guide you through the stars by season.

As for festive fun, the likes of Robin Hill adventure park has an illuminated woodland walk and POLAR hollow, the Isle of Wight Steam Railway runs on selected dates in December with a very special guest on board and Yarmouth is the site of a great big ice skating rink for those who fancy the challenge.

Isle of Wight in December

  • Usually 48°F maximum daytime temperature in Isle of Wight in December48
    48°F maximum daytime temperature
  • 2 hours of sunshine per day
  • Usually 16 days with some rainfall in Isle of Wight in December16
    16 days with some rainfall
  • 3.3 inches monthly rainfall in Isle of Wight in December3.3
    3.3 inches monthly rainfall

About Isle of Wight >>

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3. Bournemouth, Dorset, England

Another fabulous seaside destination, Bournemouth makes for a truly exciting seasonal break. Proving that Bournemouth is far more than just a beach resort, there are museums, shops, restaurants and markets all waiting to entertain visitors throughout December.

The iconic Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum, housed in a hilltop Italianate villa, is a treasure trove of collected artefacts and artworks. Meanwhile, in neighbouring Poole, the Poole Museum has reinvigorated an old Victorian warehouse, charting the town's history as a famous harbour and important maritime centre.

For eager elves, Christmas shopping is an easy win in Bournemouth. As well as the usual high street stores and independent boutiques, throughout December, you can peruse the stalls at the Christmas Market before walking through the Christmas Tree Wonderland, where more than a hundred decorations light up the dark evenings.

A short journey north of Bournemouth, you'll find Moor Valley Country Park & Forest. Along with walking routes such as the interactive Play Trail, Gruffalo Trail and festive family Quiz Trail, there are various workshops and pantomime performances to keep families busy during December; just remember to book in advance.

Bournemouth in December

  • Usually 48°F maximum daytime temperature in Bournemouth in December48
    48°F maximum daytime temperature
  • 2 hours of sunshine per day
  • Usually 17 days with some rainfall in Bournemouth in December17
    17 days with some rainfall
  • 3.5 inches monthly rainfall in Bournemouth in December3.5
    3.5 inches monthly rainfall

About Bournemouth >>

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4. Salcombe, Devon, England

Why only visit one of South Devon's most idyllic, and enduringly popular, destinations in summer?

There are numerous advantages to visiting beautiful Salcombe, which sits within the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) off season, including the lack of crowds, traffic and availability of accommodation.

While sunbathing and swimming may be out of the question (or, perhaps not if you're a hardy sea swimmer), a holiday to Salcombe in December allows you to set up camp close to beaches fit for winter strolls and countryside riddled with walking routes; the South West Coast Path snakes its way through the town and Dartmoor National Park is a brief drive away.

You won't want to miss the Salcombe Maritime Museum, which details the harbour town's deep connections with the sea throughout the centuries. Meanwhile, the Salcombe Distilling Co has a tempting bar, gin school and shop perfect for picking up some Christmas presents.

In Salcombe, you're also well placed for day trips to cities full of museums, shops and festive attractions. Why not visit The Box museum in Plymouth or Exeter Cathedral's Christmas Market?

Salcombe in December

  • Usually 48°F maximum daytime temperature in Salcombe in December48
    48°F maximum daytime temperature
  • 2 hours of sunshine per day
  • Usually 18 days with some rainfall in Salcombe in December18
    18 days with some rainfall
  • 5.6 inches monthly rainfall in Salcombe in December5.6
    5.6 inches monthly rainfall

About Salcombe >>

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5. St Davids, South Wales, Wales

Arguably one of the most characterful places in Wales, tiny St Davids packs quite the punch, even if it is Britain's smallest city. Lying within the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, there's plenty of rugged coastlines and deliciously sandy beaches to explore.

Within the city, the 12th-century St Davids Cathedral is the star attraction, rivalled only by the 14th-century remains of the magnificent Bishop's Palace.

Then there's the Oriel y Parc Gallery, the visitor centre for the national park. It's a great place to orientate yourself, plan any walks or excursions and browse an important collection of Welsh art before grabbing a warming coffee in the café.

St Davids is also jammed with independent eateries and shops bursting with locally-handcrafted stocking fillers; try Basalt & Dune for a wealth of desirable goodies.

If you're looking to explore the coast, head out to St Davids Peninsula* or hop on the Puffin Shuttle (bus number 400) to Marloes Peninsula stopping in Solva* on the way. You'll be treated to incredible wide open sea views and dramatic rocky bays filled with turquoise water.

St Davids in December

  • Usually 48°F maximum daytime temperature in St Davids in December48
    48°F maximum daytime temperature
  • 2 hours of sunshine per day
  • Usually 20 days with some rainfall in St Davids in December20
    20 days with some rainfall
  • 4.3 inches monthly rainfall in St Davids in December4.3
    4.3 inches monthly rainfall

About St Davids >>

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6. Canterbury, Kent, England

The cathedral city of Canterbury has long been on the tourist map. From its early Roman visitors, who constructed the ancient walls encircling the city, to the countless pilgrims who journeyed to St Augustine's Abbey* and the cathedral, which both date from the 500s, Canterbury has hosted visitors for centuries.

Canterbury Cathedral on a clear winter's day
Canterbury Cathedral on a clear winter's day © Antony McCallum - Wikimedia CC BY-SA 4.0

Canterbury is a fabulous place to get in the seasonal spirit. Its old, winding streets are crammed with shops, cafés and bars, as well as many museums.

Do stop at the Canterbury Roman Museum, Kent's only dedicated Roman museum. It sits within the remains of an old Roman house and showcases mosaics found locally while telling the story of Roman invasion and settlement.

Other points of interest include The Beaney House of Art and Knowledge, which is part modern gallery, part library and, of course, Canterbury Cathedral. If you're visiting in December, be sure to check the website in advance to book one of the Christmas concerts or carol services held there.

Blean Woods NNR is a handy space for a woodland walk, while a short drive or train ride will take you to some of the coast's most trendy destinations, be it Margate, Ramsgate or Folkestone.

Canterbury in December

  • Usually 46°F maximum daytime temperature in Canterbury in December46
    46°F maximum daytime temperature
  • 2 hours of sunshine per day
  • Usually 16 days with some rainfall in Canterbury in December16
    16 days with some rainfall
  • 2.8 inches monthly rainfall in Canterbury in December2.8
    2.8 inches monthly rainfall

About Canterbury >>

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7. Winchester, Hampshire, England

Historic Winchester is so very atmospheric in December. Its old winding streets, decked with twinkling lights and seasonal cheer lead to much-admired Winchester Cathedral.

Dating in parts from the 11th century, this behemoth is one of the largest cathedrals of its kind in Northern Europe, not to mention the longest medieval cathedral in the world. Venture inside to truly appreciate the architecture including the vaulted ceilings and, if you book well in advance, you may just get a seat at a carol service here.

More history is on show at Winchester City Mill*, a restored watermill that's said to predate its reference in the Doomsday Book, and among the ruins of Wolvesey Castle*, or the Old Bishop's Palace, the once-vital seat of medieval power.

Of course, literature lovers will want to make the short trip out of the city to Jane Austen's House, now a museum dedicated to the life of this most talented trailblazer of a writer.

The city is crammed with shops and restaurants of all sizes, as well as the Christmas Market at the Cathedral. Up the festive feels by taking the Mulled Wine Walking Tour (yes, it includes a glass of warming wine), which considers Christmas traditions alongside the city's history.

For outdoor lovers, Winchester is the western gateway to the South Downs National Park, which promises no end of walking and cycling opportunities.

Winchester in December

  • Usually 46°F maximum daytime temperature in Winchester in December46
    46°F maximum daytime temperature
  • 2 hours of sunshine per day
  • Usually 17 days with some rainfall in Winchester in December17
    17 days with some rainfall
  • 3.4 inches monthly rainfall in Winchester in December3.4
    3.4 inches monthly rainfall

About Winchester >>

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8. Hastings, East Sussex, England

Hear mention of Hastings and you'll almost certainly think of 1066. And understandably so. The Battle of Hastings was a defining moment in English, and British, history although the town that gave its name to the invasion of William the Conqueror is actually located a few miles south of where the action took place.

Naturally, any visit to Hastings is likely to include a trip to this significant ground and an interesting day out is guaranteed at the Battle of Hastings Abbey and Battlefield*.

Away from all things 1066, Hastings holds a slew of other titles from retaining Europe's largest beach-launched fishing fleet to the home of Britain's steepest funicular. It also has an impressive collection of cultural attractions such as the Hastings Museum and Art Gallery and the Hastings Contemporary, a relatively new beach-front art gallery.

Add to these Hastings Castle, the Smugglers Adventure at St Clements Caves, which looks at the town's smuggling past, and the Shipwreck Museum, which tells of lost ships and souls, and it's easy to see how your time will fly by in this coastal haven.

Out and about, the High Weald AONB offers plenty of walking routes while nearby Rye, with its pretty cobbled streets and fine selection of pubs is an inviting day trip.

The swathe of beach at Camber Sands may not be right for sunbathing but the ruins of Henry VIII's artillery fort at Camber Castle* are worthy of a winter's day explore.

Hastings in December

  • Usually 46°F maximum daytime temperature in Hastings in December46
    46°F maximum daytime temperature
  • 2 hours of sunshine per day
  • Usually 18 days with some rainfall in Hastings in December18
    18 days with some rainfall
  • 3.0 inches monthly rainfall in Hastings in December3.0
    3.0 inches monthly rainfall

About Hastings >>

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9. Lyme Regis, Jurassic Coast, England

Pack your geologist's hammer for a trip to what is often referred to as the 'Pearl of Dorset', the seaside town and fossil-centre of Lyme Regis.

Located on the border of Dorset and Devon, it's also within the Jurassic Coast UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its variety of rocks from numerous geological periods.

Such pedigree has cemented Lyme Regis in the heart of amateur and professional geologists and palaeontologists. Start your visit by stopping at the Lyme Regis Museum where, among many other things, you can book a guided beach fossil walk.

You will also learn all about the town's most famous former resident, Mary Anning. She was an internationally-renowned fossil collector and palaeontologist known for her ground-breaking finds during the first half of the 19th century.

For a glimpse at what lies beneath, venture to the Lyme Regis Marine Aquarium, which delves into the marine life of the Jurassic Coast past and present, including plenty of creatures you can meet and greet such as crabs, lobsters, a variety of fish and starfish.

For fresh air enthusiasts, Lyme Regis is perfectly placed for making the most of the surrounding countryside. Take your pick from walks through the Dorset AONB, East Devon AONB and Blackdown Hills AONB, or stay closer to the town at the Undercliffs National Nature Reserve (NNR).

If you're looking for even more culture, shopping and dining options, the likes of Dorchester, Exeter and Weymouth are all within easy reach of Lyme Regis too.

Lyme Regis in December

  • Usually 48°F maximum daytime temperature in Lyme Regis in December48
    48°F maximum daytime temperature
  • 2 hours of sunshine per day
  • Usually 17 days with some rainfall in Lyme Regis in December17
    17 days with some rainfall
  • 3.7 inches monthly rainfall in Lyme Regis in December3.7
    3.7 inches monthly rainfall

About Lyme Regis >>

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10. St Andrews, Fife, Scotland

For a small town on Scotland's east coast, St Andrews punches well above its weight.

From its historic university to the 12th-century ruins of St Andrews Cathedral, once the seat of medieval Catholic power in Scotland, and its place in the annals as the 'Home of Golf' alongside the world-famous Old Course, there's no end of big-ticket sights to see.

Lace up those hiking boots for a brisk walk along the huge open sweep of West Sands Beach, which is bookended by the rocky remains of St Andrews Castle to the south and the wild forest and sandscapes of Tentsmuir NNR to the north.

Back in the town, St Andrews Botanic Garden offers a more sheltered walk accompanied by hundreds of plant and tree species, while the roads around North Street and Market Street have more cafés, bakeries and bars than needed on a short break.

Whether you're looking for Christmas goodies or just after souvenirs for yourself, be sure to visit Eden Mill Distillery to pick up a bottle of local gin, and the Balgove Larder, a popular farm shop with plenty of travel-friendly options like fine Scottish biscuits and cheese.

St Andews in December

  • Usually 43°F maximum daytime temperature in St Andrews in December43
    43°F maximum daytime temperature
  • 2 hours of sunshine per day
  • Usually 18 days with some rainfall in St Andrews in December18
    18 days with some rainfall
  • 2.6 inches monthly rainfall in St Andrews in December2.6
    2.6 inches monthly rainfall

About St Andrews >>

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Planning holidays in the UK

About the UK seasons

More about the UK

How warm is it in the UK in December?

Daytime temperatures usually reach 46°F in London, UK in December, falling to 36°F at night.

How sunny is it in the UK in December?

There are normally 1 hour of bright sunshine each day in London, UK in December - that's 18% of daylight hours.

Does it rain in the UK in December?

There are usually 14 days with some rain in London, UK in December and the average monthly rainfall is 2.3 inches.

UK December sunrise & sunset times

Browse the sunrise and sunset times for UK in December 2024. Select a month to view UK sunrise and sunset times for the next 12 months. The UK sunrise and sunset times shown below are for London.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

Date Sunrise times Sunset times
Sunday, 1st December 2024 07:44 15:55
Monday, 16th December 2024 08:01 15:52
Tuesday, 31st December 2024 08:06 16:01

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