Weather in United Kingdom in February

February climate overview

Daytime highs across United Kingdom in February run from 7.9°C (London) to 9.0°C (Cornwall). Days over 25°C are rare anywhere in United Kingdom in February. Nights average 3.4°C; the coldest 10% of nights in London fall to -2°C or below.

Rainfall in February

Expect around 12 rainy days (1 mm or more) in February, with London the driest (10 days) and Cornwall the wettest (13 days). The wettest February at Cornwall between 1991 and 2020 was 2020 with 192 mm; the driest was 1998 with 15 mm.

Sea temperature

The sea averages 9.1°C around United Kingdom in February. That is cold for swimming without a wetsuit.

Sunshine and daylight

Around 2.8 hours of sunshine a day on average, out of 9.8 hours of daylight (sunshine estimated from cloud cover).

February against the rest of the year in United Kingdom

February is the 11th warmest month of the twelve in United Kingdom. It is 0.2°C warmer than January and 2.0°C warmer in March. The hottest month here is July (20°C) and the coolest January (8°C).

Which part of United Kingdom in February?

• Most sunshine: Cornwall, 2.8 h a day.
• Driest: London, about 10 rainy days.
• Warmest sea: Cornwall, 9°C.
• Hottest: Cornwall, 9°C by day.
• Coolest (better for walking and cities): London, 8°C.

What to pack for United Kingdom in February

Based on the averages: proper layers and a jacket - daytime highs average only 8°C; a warm layer for evenings, when it drops to around 3°C; a rain jacket - roughly 12 wet days.

Similar weather elsewhere in February

Within 1.5°C of United Kingdom's February daytime average: Thassos (10°C, sea 12°C), Pula (10°C, sea 10°C), Verona (10°C), Milan (9°C), Tokyo (9°C, sea 13°C). See the full ranking for February.

Cornwall or London: milder weather versus less rain

Cornwall is the warmer choice between these destinations, averaging 9°C by day and 5°C at night. That makes it a better fit if you want less chilly evenings, though it is still coat weather rather than anything approaching summer. The catch is rain: Cornwall averages 13 rainy days, compared with 10 in London. London reaches 8°C during the day, so the daytime difference is modest, but its 2°C nights make warm evening clothing more important. For a trip built around outdoor time, neither offers dependable dry weather. Pick Cornwall for milder nights, or London if fewer rainy days matter more.

What to pack and how to plan your days

Pack for cold, potentially wet days rather than relying on a bright forecast. A warm coat, layers and waterproof footwear give you more flexibility when rain interrupts outdoor plans. With average sunshine of 2.8 hours a day, February is not a strong choice if long sunny spells are central to your holiday. Keep your outdoor plans movable and leave room to spend time indoors when conditions are less inviting. The sea averages 9°C, including in Cornwall, so do not expect comfortable casual swimming. This month suits travellers who can enjoy a winter break without needing warmth, sustained sunshine or much time in the water.