Spring in the UK is a season of transition - and often contradiction. One day you're basking in warm sunshine, the next you're reaching for your winter coat. Here's what to expect as winter loosens its grip.
March: Winter's Last Stand
March is the battleground between winter and spring:
Typical Conditions:
- Temperatures: 5-10°C average
- Daylight: Increasing rapidly (11-13 hours)
- Character: Changeable, often windy
What to Expect:
- Cold snaps still possible, occasionally with snow
- Daffodils blooming across the country
- First warm days possible, but don't put away your coat
- "March winds" are real - often the windiest month
Regional Notes:
- Scotland may still see significant snow
- Southeast typically milder
- Western areas remain wet
April: Showers and Surprises
The famous "April showers" have a basis in reality:
Typical Conditions:
- Temperatures: 8-13°C average
- Daylight: 13-15 hours
- Character: Showery with sunny spells
What to Expect:
- Frequent, short-lived rain showers
- Sunshine between showers can be warm
- Frost becoming less common but still possible
- Trees coming into leaf, gardens bursting with colour
Why April Showers?
The land warms faster than the sea in spring. Cool maritime air meeting warmer land creates instability, producing those characteristic pop-up showers.
May: The Promise of Summer
May often delivers the best spring weather:
Typical Conditions:
- Temperatures: 12-17°C average
- Daylight: 15-16 hours
- Character: Often settled and warm
What to Expect:
- Longer dry spells common
- First genuinely warm days (20°C+)
- Late frosts still possible early in the month
- Bluebells carpeting woodlands
- Bank holidays (fingers crossed for good weather!)
Warning Signs:
- Cold, wet Mays do happen
- Don't plant tender vegetables until late May
Spring Hazards to Know
Late Frosts
Gardeners beware: damaging frosts can occur into May, especially in rural areas away from warming urban heat.
Hay Fever Season
Pollen counts rise through spring. Tree pollen peaks in March-April, grass pollen begins in May.
UV Radiation
Spring sunshine can burn. UV levels increase rapidly, often catching people off guard.
What to Wear
The key to spring dressing is layers:
- Base layer for unpredictable temperatures
- Mid layer for warmth
- Waterproof outer layer for showers
- Sunglasses - spring sun can be bright
Making the Most of Spring
Spring is ideal for:
- Garden visits (Chelsea Flower Show in May)
- Coastal walks (clearer air, fewer crowds)
- Woodland walks for bluebells
- Outdoor activities before summer crowds
Just remember: in the UK, you can experience all four seasons in a single spring day. Embrace the variety - it's part of what makes British spring special.