October is when London turns properly autumnal: golden plane trees along the river, misty mornings in the parks, and a city easing into its cosy season. Here is what the month actually delivers.
London Weather in October: The Short Answer
Expect daytime highs around 16°C and lows near 9°C, with rain stepping up to roughly 65mm across more frequent wet days. The clocks go back on the last Sunday of the month, after which darkness falls before 5pm — plan outdoor sightseeing for the morning and early afternoon.
What to Pack
A proper jacket, layers underneath, water-resistant shoes and an umbrella you trust. Gloves are premature; a scarf is not.
What’s On in October
Autumn colour peaks in the Royal Parks — Richmond Park with its rutting deer is October’s spectacle. The Frieze art fairs land mid-month, Halloween takes over late October, and the half-term week around it brings a brief family-crowd spike.
Crowds and Prices
Outside half-term, October is quiet and good value: shorter queues everywhere and hotel rates well below summer. Indoor London — museums, theatres, food halls — is at full strength, which suits the season.
Verdict
A value month with real atmosphere, traded against shorter, wetter days. Milder alternative: September. If you’re heading deeper into the festive run-up, see November.