If you’re staring at your suitcase wondering if you really need those thermal socks for your trip to the Big Smoke, I’ve got some news for you. Most people think London in January is just one big, freezing block of ice, but the reality right now is a bit more... damp.
Honestly, the five day London weather forecast starting this Sunday, January 18, 2026, is leaning much more into "classic grey" than "arctic tundra." We’re looking at a stretch where the umbrella is going to be your best friend, even if the temperatures aren’t exactly bone-chilling.
The current vibe in the Capital
Right now, as of midday Sunday, it’s about 50°F out there. It’s partly sunny, which is basically a London miracle for this time of year, but don’t let that blue sky fool you into leaving your coat at the hotel. The humidity is sitting at a thick 90%, and there’s a tiny northeast wind. It feels crisp. Not "I can't feel my ears" cold, but definitely "I need a scarf" cool.
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Today, Sunday, January 18, we’re topping out at 51°F. It’ll stay mostly cloudy for the rest of the day, dipping down to a low of 42°F tonight. If you're heading out to a pub in Soho later, just know there's about a 20% chance you'll get dripped on.
What’s coming for the rest of the week?
Tomorrow, Monday, January 19, the "partly sunny" luck runs out. We’re expecting light rain to set in and stay for most of the day. The high is still 51°F, and the low is 42°F. It’s that persistent, misty London rain that doesn’t soak you instantly but eventually makes everything feel a bit soggy.
Tuesday, January 20, keeps the theme going. Highs of 50°F and lows of 44°F. The southeast wind picks up a bit to 10 mph, which makes that 20% daytime rain chance feel a little more biting. By Tuesday night, that rain chance jumps way up to 65%. Basically, Tuesday night is for staying indoors with a roast or a curry.
The mid-week shift
By Wednesday, January 21, and Thursday, January 22, the temperature starts to slide just a fraction. We’re looking at highs of 48°F and lows of 43°F. It doesn't sound like much of a drop, but with the humidity staying around 90% and the rain becoming more consistent—especially on Wednesday with a 45% chance during the day—it’s going to feel significantly more "winter."
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Why this forecast matters for your plans
Look, London is a walking city. If you’re planning to do the South Bank or wander through Covent Garden, this five day London weather report tells you one thing: waterproof footwear is non-negotiable. Puddles in London are deeper than they look.
There’s been some chatter about a "Beast from the East" or blizzards hitting the UK later in the month, around January 26. But for this specific five-day window? It’s all about the liquid sunshine. You won’t see snow this week. You will see a lot of grey clouds and probably spend a lot of time under the awning of a museum or a shop.
Tips for surviving the damp
- Layering is the secret: 50°F is that awkward temperature where you're hot while walking but freezing once you stop. Wear a light sweater under a waterproof shell.
- Museum strategy: Save the British Museum or the National Gallery for Wednesday. That’s when the rain is most likely to ruin an outdoor walk.
- The wind factor: 10 mph winds from the southeast aren't gale-force, but they’ll turn a cheap umbrella inside out. Invest in a sturdy one or stick to a hooded raincoat.
Basically, London is being very "London" right now. It's mild, it's wet, and it's perfectly atmospheric if you've got the right gear. Don't let the drizzle stop you; just plan for some extra tea breaks to dry off.
Your next steps: Pack a high-quality raincoat rather than a heavy parka for this specific week. Check the transport apps like Citymapper before you head out, as heavy rain can sometimes cause minor delays on the overground lines. Focus your outdoor sightseeing for the shorter "partly cloudy" windows today before the rain settles in tomorrow.