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London Without the Crowds: Why February & March Are Great Months to Visit

Image of the blog post London Without the Crowds: Why February & March Are Great Months to Visit

London is one of the world’s most exciting cities — but it’s no secret that peak-season crowds can take away some of the magic. If you’re looking for a calmer, more affordable, and genuinely enjoyable London experience, February and March are two of the smartest months to visit.

With fewer tourists, better hotel availability, and easier access to major attractions, late winter and early spring offer a version of London many visitors never get to see. These months are particularly ideal for first-time visitors, couples, solo travellers, and anyone who wants to explore London without the stress of peak-season crowds.

Fewer Crowds Compared to Summer

From May through September, London’s most famous areas — Kensington, Westminster, Covent Garden, and the South Bank — are often packed with visitors. Queues are longer, Tube stations are busier, and popular museums can feel overwhelming.

In February and March, the pace is noticeably different:

  • Shorter queues at major museums
  • Easier movement on public transport
  • Less congestion around landmarks
  • A quieter, more local feel in neighbourhoods

This difference is especially noticeable around the Kensington museums, which are easily reached from Earl’s Court in under 15 minutes by Tube or on foot. For travellers staying in hotels near Earls Court Tube Station, this means spending more time exploring and far less time waiting.

Hotel Pricing Reality: Better Value for Central London

One of the biggest advantages of visiting London in February and March is the pricing.

Hotel rates in central areas tend to be lower than during spring and summer. This means you can stay in a well-connected location — such as Earl’s Court — without stretching your budget unnecessarily.

While London is never a truly “cheap” destination, travelling outside peak months makes central locations far more attainable, especially for travellers who value walkability and transport connections.

For guests who book direct with hotels, this period often offers:

  • Better room availability
  • More flexible date options
  • Stronger overall value compared to peak season

If location matters to your trip, visiting outside the busiest months makes staying central a realistic choice.

You can also read: Best Ways to Get to Central London from Heathrow Airport

Museums, Parks & Seasonal Attractions

World-Class Museums (Without the Rush)

London’s major museums are open year-round, and winter visits come with a major benefit: space.

From Earl’s Court, you can easily reach:

  • Natural History Museum
  • Science Museum
  • Victoria and Albert Museum

All within a short walk or a quick Tube journey. Visiting in February and March allows you to explore exhibitions at a relaxed pace, without the large tour groups that dominate summer months.

Parks in Early Spring

While February can still feel wintry, March often brings early signs of spring. Parks such as Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park begin to feel lighter and more inviting, yet remain far quieter than later in the year.

These early spring walks offer a calmer way to experience London’s green spaces before peak-season crowds return.

Kew Gardens Orchid Festival

One of the standout seasonal events during this period is the Kew Gardens Orchid Festival, typically held from early February to early March. It’s one of London’s most colourful winter attractions and is easily accessible by public transport from Earl’s Court.

If you’re visiting London during this window, it’s one of the few truly seasonal events worth planning around.

Indoor Attractions Perfect for Cooler Days

London excels at indoor experiences, making it an ideal city even when temperatures are lower. February and March are particularly well suited for:

  • Theatre and West End shows
  • Historic houses and galleries
  • Covered markets and independent cafés
  • Shopping areas such as Kensington and Knightsbridge

With fewer visitors in the city, many indoor attractions feel calmer, more spacious, and easier to enjoy.

Honest Weather Expectations

London’s late winter weather is cool but manageable.

Here’s what to realistically expect:

  • Temperatures typically range from 5°C to 12°C
  • Occasional rain, but rarely extreme conditions
  • Crisp, bright afternoons on clearer days

With a warm jacket, comfortable walking shoes, and a light waterproof layer, exploring London during this time is straightforward — and often more pleasant than navigating summer heat and crowds.

Why Earl’s Court Is a Smart Base in Winter

Staying in Earl’s Court provides excellent year-round connectivity, which becomes even more valuable during the winter months.

Guests benefit from:

  • Direct access to the Piccadilly Line, including Heathrow Airport
  • Fast connections to central London and major attractions
  • A quieter neighbourhood atmosphere in the evenings

For winter visitors, staying somewhere well-connected reduces time spent travelling and makes shorter days feel far more productive. Earl’s Court offers a practical, comfortable base for discovering London at a relaxed pace.

Final Thoughts

February and March offer a calmer, more affordable, and more authentic way to experience London. With fewer crowds, better hotel value, and easy access to museums, parks, and seasonal events, these months are ideal for travellers who want to enjoy the city without the pressure of peak season.

If you’re planning a visit and value location, convenience, and a more relaxed travel experience, Mowbray Court Hotel London is a practical choice for enjoying late winter and early spring in the city.