Weather in England in April

England in April fully embraces spring as the days grow longer and warmer. Milder temperatures range from 41°F to 57°F (5°C to 14°C) nationwide, though rain is common. Rural landscapes look lovely as nature reawakens in April, making outdoor activities more enjoyable in these areas. Especially in the south and in London, parks and yards put on an amazing show with cherry blossoms and tulips. April is a great month to explore England's yards, castles, and national parks; however, the weather is erratic, so be prepared for a combination of sunny spells, cloud cover, and showers. 

England in April at a glance

Even if the occasional rain shower can dampen your day, April days are getting longer and the temperatures are pleasant. and places throughout England appear stunningly fresh covered with spring flowers in full bloom. 

• In April, temperatures in southern England average 43°F to 57°F (6 to 14°C), while in the Midlands and northern parts, it’s a bit cooler at around 41°F to 54°F (5°C to 12°C).
• The landscape becomes greener in spring, and April is ideal for visiting national parks and castles in beautiful settings. On a bright day, eating at an outside café is rather pleasant.
• April is still not warm enough for beach visits, as the sea remains cold and the coastal destinations are still susceptible to cold winds.
• England in April is a shoulder season. Rates for excursions and accommodations rise around Easter due to the surge of tourists, but generally, April is a moderately priced time to visit.

Is April a good time to visit England?

April is a lovely time to visit England! With spring in full swing, trees are budding and flowers are blooming in parks and yards and enhancing the countryside right across the country. The pleasant temperatures and longer daylight hours are also a bonus, enabling the opportunity to see more of the country. Rain remains frequent, but there are more sunny spells, so outdoor sightseeing and attractions are more feasible than in March.

Visiting England in April is an ideal time to go if you enjoy colorful yards, outdoor cafés and tea rooms, and countryside escapes. The Lake District and Peak District are very picturesque, while the Cotswolds are a haven for charming villages surrounded by fresh greenery. Parks in cities like Bath, York, and London are ablaze with cherry blossoms and tulips.

Easter celebrations deliver exciting events, but they also raise costs and crowds, especially in London. The weather in England in March can still be unreliable, so bring layers and a waterproof jacket. Overall, April offers an excellent balance of mild temperatures, fewer tourists (except during Easter), and stunning landscapes. 

Average daily temperatures in April

The weather in England in April welcomes milder temperatures. The southern counties are generally a little warmer than those further north, with daytime highs in London reaching around 57°F (14°C) and lows of about 43°F (6°C). In northern England and the Midlands, temperatures range from 41°F to 54°F (5°C to 12°C).

In April, sunshine is more common than in winter, and temperatures in the sun can feel much warmer than in the shade. However, rural regions may experience frost on occasions and the mornings can still be somewhat chilly. Packing light layers is recommended for handling the changing temperatures.

What about the crowds and cost?

April is England's shoulder season, and there is a rise in tourist levels. This is particularly true for historic and architecturally rich cities like London, Bath, York, Oxford, and Cambridge. National parks, such as the Lake District and the Cotswolds, become popular as spring arrives, but they are not overcrowded. 

Aside from Easter – when the influx of tourists tends to inflate costs – April is a great month to travel to England if you’re on a budget. Generally, accommodation, excursion, and flight prices remain moderate. While April is busier than the winter months, it still offers a good balance between being able to see the sights without paying a fortune or fighting the crowds.

Things to do in England in April

The weather in England in April provides ideal conditions for countryside walks, exploring historic sites, and enjoying outdoor attractions before the summer throng arrives. It’s worth remembering, the phrase April showers is well-deserved, as short but heavy rain can occur at any time. Here are some of the best things to do in England in April to get the most out of your trip.

Walk among the Bluebells in ancient woodlands

In April, the mild temperatures are perfect for springtime walks. Additionally, this month marks the height of the bluebell season in England, when woodlands are carpeted with purple hues. Ashridge Estate in Hertfordshire, Blickling Estate in Norfolk, and Epping Forest near London are among some of the best places to see them.

Discover student life at Oxford and Cambridge

As students prepare for summer exams and the campuses come alive, April is a wonderful time to visit Oxford and Cambridge. Take a tour of the ancient colleges, join students boating on the River Cam in Cambridge or explore beyond the colleges. Stroll through Oxford Botanic Yards to admire the spring floral display, and afterward, land in one of Oxford's bars.

Explore Hadrian’s Wall without the crowds

The mild weather in April lends itself to visiting the intriguing site of Hadrian’s Wall, an ancient Roman fortification in northern England. The landscape is covered in fresh foliage, providing a scenic setting for hiking sections of the wall, seeing Roman ruins like Housesteads Fort, and admiring sweeping countryside views.

Experience the changing seasons in the Lake District

The Lake District may be at its most magnificent in April, making it a wonderful time for hiking and exploring the area without the summer crowds holding you back. Lowland trails around Grasmere and Ullswater provide breathtaking views, while Lake Windermere is brilliant for taking a boat trip and picturesque walks.

Visit Sissinghurst Castle Yard in Kent

One of England’s most well-known yards, Sissinghurst Castle Yard, is simply breathtaking in April. It’s the work of writer Vita Sackville-West and features beautifully arranged yard rooms adorned with wisteria, tulips, early roses, and other colorful flowers. The yard is a superb place to relax in the warm spring air with fewer people around.

Festivals and events in England in April

Visit England in April and you'll likely be captivated by a host of events, spring fairs, and traditional Easter celebrations that take place at this time of year. 

• Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race: This historic rowing competition between the two famous universities draws a huge crowd. The race takes place along the River Thames in London.
• Easter markets and egg hunts: All across the country, family-friendly events take place over Easter. Chocolate egg hunts are popular with children, while adults enjoy the seasonal food markets.
• London Coffee Festival: This entertaining festival showcases coffee in all its glory with tastings, contests for the best baristas, and live music.
• Shakespeare's Birthday Celebrations: Stratford-upon-Avon, Shakespeare’s hometown, presents this lively festival honoring England’s most famous playwright, complete with parades and performances.
• Harrogate Spring Flower Show: One of the biggest gardening events in England, showcasing stunning floral displays, is hosted in the charming spa town of Harrogate.