Why You Should Visit England in March

The month of March is the gateway to the renewed energy of spring, and with the changing seasons comes a softening of winter’s chill. Temperatures across England steadily climb, though there are still moments when the frost lingers.

March Temperature in England

To the south of the country, in Cornwall’s seaside town of Bude, you can expect high temperatures of around 11°C/52°F and lows of 5°C/41°F. Further up the west coast, at the starting point of Wainwright’s iconic Coast to Coast trail in St Bees, temperatures are cooler. In the north, average high temperatures for the month reach 8°C/46°F. While the windswept beauty of the countryside experiences a cooler climate, the shelter of cities offers slightly warmer readings. In London, for example, average high temperatures are 12°C/54°F, while low temperatures remain around 5°C/41°F.

Layer upon Layer

Rain in England in March varies across the country, but the showers are lighter than you might expect, passing quickly and leaving behind landscape sparkling. Although the weather can be unpredictable–this is England!–it is generally pleasant, making it a good time to get outside and explore, safe in the knowledge that a cosy cafe or vibrant pub is never far away. When it comes to what to wear, layers are essential. A warm, waterproof jacket, wool layers underneath, and sturdy walking shoes will keep you right as you explore the beauty of England in March.

Patron saints aside, there is plenty happening in England in March, and we’ve chosen some of our favourite places to go this month. Read on to find out more.

Get Outdoors to Explore

National parks and other rural areas, such as Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty [AONB], are beautiful all year round. Still, a certain magic can only be enjoyed as the countryside shakes off winter and the first hints of spring emerge.

The Lake District National Park and the Cotswolds, an AONB, are good examples of this, their hills and valleys offering a quiet respite for the hubbub of summer. Imagine hiking the scenic trails of the Lake District, mist clinging to the fells as the sun rises, and a cosy fire waiting to warm you after a day of adventure and discovery. Or perhaps you picture yourself strolling through a golden stone village in the Cotswolds, stopping to admire early blooms as flowers begin to emerge.

Get In and Get Warm

Heading indoors, many heritage attractions and country houses, which close for the winter, may reopen in March, depending on when Easter falls. The Oxford Literary Festival is also often a feature of late March. Nestled among the iconic colleges of this historic university city, the festival draws literary greats from across the country and beyond, making it an enriching addition to a trip to the Cotswolds.

If you visit England in early March, make the most of International Women’s Day on 8th March by exploring the history of some of England’s remarkable women.

The Brontë Sisters

To the south of the Yorkshire Dales like Haworth, home to the Brontë Parsonage Museum. A literary pilgrimage, this house was the Brontë home in the 19th century, including Charlotte, Emily, and Anne. Visit to discover more about their lives and legacy and the influences behind their great novels, such as Jane Eyre and Wuthering Heights.

Agatha Christie

Don’t miss Greenway in Devon for similar literary inspiration on the south coast. Owned by the National Trust today, this 18th century house was the holiday home of the detective writer Agatha Christie, and remains frozen in the 1950s, offering a delightful insight into this renowned author.

Barbara Hepworth

Continuing in the south of England, head into Cornwall to visit the artist haven of St Ives, home to the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden. Part of the Tate Museum, this is a tranquil haven exploring the life and work of one of Britain’s most important 20th century artists.

Emmeline Pankhurst

Back up north, in Manchester, The Pankhurst Centre is a fitting stop on a crisp March day. Once home to the Pankhurst, including Emmeline Pankhurst, leader of the British suffragette movement, the museum remains the only of its kind today, dedicated to the history of women’s right to vote.