UK weather and seasons

What are the seasons in the UK?

In the UK, we have four seasons: spring, summer, autumn and winter. Each season lasts about three months and has different weather.
The weather is also different in different parts of the UK as well.

We can use fieldwork to measure temperature and rainfall and find out how the weather changes.

Watch: The seasons

What is the weather like in each season?

In Spring the days start to get warmer. Plants grow and start to flower.

You can play outside for longer because it gets dark later.

There are more warm, dry days so you might go outside more often.

Summer usually has the hottest, sunniest days. There still may be some cooler or cloudier days.

In some years summer is very dry, but sometimes there is a lot of rain.

You might go to the beach, zoo, farm or adventure playground.

On lots of days you might wear shorts, t-shirts or summer dresses. Many people go on holiday in the summer because it is warmer and drier.

In Autumn, the days get shorter and cooler. There is usually more wind and rain.

You’ll need to start wearing your coat more and play inside.

There may be more frost on the ground in the mornings.

Winter is the coldest season with the shortest days.

It can be stormy with lots of rain and wind.

There may be snow and ice. You will need a coat, hat, scarf and gloves to keep you warm.

What is the weather like in different parts of the UK?

Weather is different in different parts of the UK.

In the north of England and Scotland winters are colder. It is more likely to snow there too.

In the south of England and near the coast, winters are milder. There is less chance of snow there.

In summer, lots of people go on holiday in the south of England to places like Devon and Cornwall. The weather is usually warmer and there are lots of beaches.

Activity: UK weather and seasons quiz