The best time to visit England

England might be small, but it packs a lot into its pint-sized shores.

Whether you’re climbing the Lake District’s uplifting fells or wandering along Dover’s fabled White Cliffs, England delivers a bucolic feast for the senses. But the weather is never far from the conversation in England. The elements here are notoriously subject to change from hour to hour, though that rarely stops the people of this gregarious nation from getting out and having fun.

Here’s a month-by-month breakdown of what’s going on, from festivals and events to the all-important weather, to help you pick the best time for your visit.

June to August is the best time for good weather and festivals, but it’s busy

The weather in England is at its best from June to August, with plenty of sunny days. The school holiday period starts late July, and many UK families make the most of the break from school to travel with their kids, so prices for accommodations are high, particularly in August. Parking can be tricky, especially in national parks, at beaches and seaside areas such as Cornwall and Devon, and popular cities such as Oxford, Bath and York. Public transportation in London can be sweltering on a hot day. This is festival season too, and there are some huge outdoor events across the country.

Explore the great outdoors in the spring and autumn months

There are fewer crowds in spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), and the weather is often mild, making this a great time for hikes and cycle rides in national parks. Expect sun mixed with sudden rain showers from March to May, and some balmy autumn days from September to October. Seasonal sights start to open up in spring.

December to February is cold and the best time for indoor activities

It’s normal for the weather to be wet and cold through the low season. It can be snowy too, especially up north, where the weather can affect transport schedules. Opening hours are often reduced from October to Easter, with some places shut for the entire winter, but major sights (especially in London) remain open all year. Make the best of the season at Christmas markets and inside cozy pubs with roaring fires.

Enjoy budget-friendly city breaks in January

After the frenetic festivities of Christmas and New Year’s Eve, the chilly first few…