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.

What is the weather like in England in April?

April in England is classic spring: brighter days, fresh green parks, and weather that changes its mind constantly. You can easily get sunshine, drizzle, and a burst of wind all in the same afternoon, so the trick is packing for variety. 

This is a great month for walking-heavy plans: city breaks, countryside bars, coastal paths, and yard visits all feel more appealing once the days stretch longer. London is especially enjoyable in April, with more outdoor energy but without the heavy crowds of summer.

Rain is common, but usually in short bursts rather than endless downpours. The north and west tend to be wetter, while the south is often a bit calmer. April is shoulder season, so you’ll find a nice balance between atmosphere and availability, though weekends and school vacations can still get busy. Bring layers, a light waterproof jacket, and shoes you don’t mind getting muddy. You’ll thank yourself. This can be a great time to plan your England itinerary.

Average daily temperatures in April

April in England feels like spring is finally settling in, though the weather still keeps you on your toes. Daytime highs usually reach 52–59°F (11–15°C), while nights drop to around 39–45°F (4–7°C). You’ll get a mix of sun, clouds, and quick-moving showers, so waterproof layers are essential. Mornings can start chilly, but by mid-afternoon, parks and bar yards start to fill up again. 

The countryside turns green fast, with daffodils, bluebells, and new lambs scattered across the fields. It’s still shoulder season, so you won’t face big crowds at major sights, and prices stay fairly reasonable. London tends to be a few degrees warmer than northern cities like Manchester or York, but the difference isn’t huge. 

The days are longer now, with sunset around 7:30 p.m., giving you more time to explore. Just don’t expect consistent sunshine — part of the charm is watching the weather change by the hour.

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Is April a good time to visit England?

April is a fresh and lively time to be in England. The weather in England in April is famously unpredictable—sunshine one minute, rain the next—but it’s also the month when spring really kicks in. Parks and countryside start to bloom, with daffodils, bluebells, and cherry blossoms showing up all over. London feels lighter, with longer days and more outdoor tables at cafés and bars. 

It’s a good time to walk the South Downs, visit yards in Kent, or take day trips to smaller towns while avoiding peak summer crowds. You’ll want to pack a rain jacket and layers, but the changing skies are part of the charm. 

Easter vacations can bring a short burst of domestic travel, especially at family-friendly attractions, but most places stay fairly quiet. It’s also shoulder season, so train fares and hotel rates tend to be lower—especially if you book ahead.  For more tips, see our guide to how to plan a trip to England. 

• Spring blooms transform parks and countryside
• Longer daylight hours and pleasant temperatures
• Lake District, Peak District, and Cotswolds especially picturesque
• More sunny spells than March for outdoor activities
• Fewer tourists except during Easter period

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.  If you're still deciding, see our guide to the best time to visit England. 

Where to go in England in April

April in England means longer days, spring blooms, and the occasional cold snap or surprise shower. It’s still shoulder season, so prices are reasonable and crowds haven’t fully arrived. You’ll want a rain jacket — but you’ll also get daffodils, bluebells, and clear countryside walks.

London

April is one of the best months to visit London if you want to avoid summer crowds and still enjoy the outdoors. Parks like Hyde Park and Kew Yards are in full spring mode, with cherry blossoms and tulips. Museums are still relatively quiet on weekdays. The city also starts waking up from its winter lull — expect art fairs, pop-up food markets, and West End shows without the reservation chaos of peak season. Just be ready for sun one minute and drizzle the next.

The Cotswolds

The Cotswolds feel fresh and alive in April. Lambs are out in the fields, hedgerows bloom with hawthorn and primrose, and trails are walkable again after the worst of the winter mud. Villages like Bourton-on-the-Water and Bibury still feel local, with stores and bars open but not overrun. Stay in a countryside inn or a self-catering cottage and do your walks early — mornings are crisp, and the light is soft. Wild garlic lines the footpaths in woodland areas.

York

April in York is a good blend of atmosphere and accessibility. You can explore the medieval walls and cobbled streets without elbowing through peak tourist traffic. The city’s yards and riverside paths bloom with early spring flowers, and cafés spill out into the streets on sunny days. If Easter falls in April, there are chocolate stores and themed walking tours around the city. Trains from London are fast and frequent, so it’s easy to combine with other stops.

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.

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.