Right now, if you step out of a black cab at Piccadilly Circus or try to navigate the wind tunnels of Canary Wharf, the current temperature in London England is sitting at a crisp 51°F (about 11°C). Honestly, that sounds almost pleasant for mid-January. You might think you can get away with a light trench coat or a stylish leather jacket.
You’d be wrong.
London weather is a deceptive beast. While 51°F is the headline number on your iPhone, the high humidity—currently hovering at 83%—and a persistent 5 mph breeze from the southeast make it feel significantly rawer than the data suggests. It’s that damp, "gets-into-your-bones" kind of cold that the UK is famous for.
Basically, the air is thick with moisture. Even with a relatively low 10% chance of rain at this exact moment, the sky is "mostly cloudy," which in London-speak usually means a grey blanket that hasn't quite decided if it wants to spit on you yet.
The Reality of the Current Temperature in London England
Most people look at the forecast and see a high of 51°F and a low of 42°F for today, Saturday, January 17, 2026. They think, "Oh, it’s a mild winter day." But Londoners know better. We’re currently in a weird atmospheric tug-of-war.
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Atlantic weather systems are trying to shove their way in from the west, bringing this "milder" air. Meanwhile, a block of high pressure is sitting over the continent, trying to leak freezing Siberian air across the Channel.
It’s unsettled. It's grey. It's classic.
What the Numbers Don't Tell You
- The Tube Effect: You’ll be freezing on the platform at Oxford Circus, but once you’re packed onto a Central Line carriage, the "real feel" temperature spikes to roughly the heat of the sun. You need layers you can rip off in under ten seconds.
- Microclimates: The temperature in the concrete jungle of the City can feel two degrees warmer than the exposed heights of Hampstead Heath.
- The UV Myth: The UV index is currently 0. You won't see the sun. You won't need sunglasses. You will, however, need a high-quality moisturizer because this damp cold absolutely wrecks your skin.
Why 2026 is Feeling a Bit Different
Historically, London in January averages around 45°F (7°C). Seeing 51°F today means we are technically above average. But don't get comfortable.
Met Office data and recent BBC Weather maps are already flashing "purple alert" warnings for later this month. While we’re enjoying this double-digit "warmth" today, there’s a massive Arctic plunge forecasted for the end of January. We’re talking about potential lows of 0°C (32°F) and actual snow accumulations—something London usually fails at spectacularly, turning instead into a slushy, grey mess that brings the entire rail network to a standstill.
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The current temperature in London England is just the calm before the storm. Enjoy the 51°F while it lasts, because by January 30th, the maps are predicting sleet and bone-chilling winds.
What to Actually Wear Right Now
Forget the fashion influencers for a second. If you’re out today, you need a thermal base layer.
Seriously.
A Uniqlo Heattech top or a basic merino wool vest is the difference between a great day at the British Museum and a miserable walk across Waterloo Bridge. Pair it with a waterproof outer layer. Not "water-resistant." Waterproof.
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London drizzle is tactical. It’s fine enough to float under an umbrella and coat your jeans until they’re heavy and damp.
- Footwear: Chelsea boots with a lug sole (like Dr. Martens) are the unofficial uniform of 2026. They handle the puddles and the grime without looking like you're going on a hike in the Lake District.
- Accessories: A chunky wool scarf is non-negotiable. It doubles as a shield against the wind-tunnel effect created by the Shard and other skyscrapers.
Looking Ahead: The Big Freeze
If you’re planning a trip or just trying to survive the next two weeks, keep a close eye on the transition happening around Wednesday, January 21st. The "mild" Atlantic air is going to lose the fight.
We’re heading toward a period where night frosts will become the norm. The current 10% rain chance will climb to 25% overnight, and by next week, we’ll be seeing more frequent "showery outbreaks."
Honestly, the best way to handle the current temperature in London England is to assume it’s always about five degrees colder than the screen says. The dampness is a force multiplier for the chill.
Actionable Tips for Navigating London Today
- Check the "RealFeel": If your app has it, use it. The raw temperature is a vanity metric in the UK.
- Avoid Suede: Unless you want to ruin your shoes by the time you reach Covent Garden, leave the suede at home. The pavements are permanently damp this time of year.
- Strategic Shelters: If the wind picks up, duck into a museum or a historic pub. The thick stone walls of a place like the Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese are great for escaping the humidity-driven chill.
- Charge Your Tech: Cold, damp air drains phone batteries faster. If you’re using Citymapper to get around, carry a small power bank.
The current temperature in London England might look manageable at 51°F, but it’s a trap for the unprepared. Dress for the moisture, prepare for the wind, and keep your winter coat ready for the sub-zero drop coming in ten days.
To stay ahead of the weather, monitor the Met Office's long-range forecast daily, as the transition to Arctic conditions at the end of the month is likely to trigger travel disruptions across the Greater London area. If you're commuting, ensure you have a "plan B" for your route as damp conditions often lead to signal failures on older Tube lines.