What to expect and what to pack

Rain or sun? Heatwaves or cold snaps?

Bristol's weather can be temperamental, and might take some getting used to. Read on for a season by season guide on what to expect, what to pack and how to cope with possibly a new climate.

One thing for sure, bring an umbrella. We have some of the highest average rainfall in the country! ☔

Spring 🌱

The season where the world comes back alive! It's the most extreme of our seasons. One moment you can have blue skies, and the next your ducking for cover from a downpour of rain.

When? Late February to early May

Average temperatures: 8°C/46°F

What to pack: waterproof jacket, warm boots, umbrella

Look out for: daffodils. They spring up everywhere. You can buy bunches in supermarket for around £1 too to add some cheer to your home.

Good to know: although the average temperatures are mild, extremes can happen in spring. Snow call fall in March and higher temperatures can spike in April. Basically, be prepared for all weather situations!

Summer ☀️

There is honestly nothing like Bristol in summer. The Old City comes alive with outdoor gigs, the harbour is a haven for socialising and we're just a short journey from the seaside.

When? Early May to early September

Average temperatures: 18-22°C/64-72°F

What to pack: lightweight, natural fibres, refillable water bottle and sun cream.

Look out for: festivals. The UK, and especially the south-west, is famous for festivals. Go big with Glasto or keep it small with Bristol based events such as Harbourfest.

Good to know: it might not be as warm as summers in other areas of the world, but watch out for the humidity levels. It can make it feel a lot hotter than it is, and it's much harder to regulate your body temperature. Most homes in the UK are not fitted with AC so invest in a fan and have an ice cream!

Autumn 🍂

My favourite season 🧡 the air is crisper, the leaves turn red and evenings are cosier. Autumn is when you should start to stock up on blankets, a thick duvet and fairy lights before winter strikes.

When? Mid September to early November

Average temperatures: 13°C/55°F

What to pack: light jackets, scarves and chunky knitwear

Look out for: woodland walks. The woods and forests around campus and Bristol are magical in autumn. Westonbirt Arboretum is famous for its spectacular show of autumn leaves.

Good to know: the clocks in the UK go back an hour on the last Saturday of October. This means we have less daylight until they spring forward again in March. 

Winter ❄️

The most festive of all the seasons! And the biggest shock if you're from a warmer part of the world. Layer up your clothing, add extra blankets to your bed and drink lots of hot drinks.

When? Early November to late February

Average temperatures: 6°C/43°F

What to pack: thick coat, woollen jumpers, thermal underwear (socks, leggings, vests), hats and gloves

Look out for: Christmas lights. Towns and houses will be covered in beautiful light displays. And once the new year has arrived, snowdrops and crocuses beckon in spring.

Good to know: although the average temperature is above freezing, cold snaps mean we regularly dip below 0°C/32°F, especially at night. Adding blankets to your bed can keep your body heat in.