London weather & clothes in June?
 

This will be our family's first trip to the United Kingdom and we're very excited. Would anyone be so kind to tell me what to expect mid-June in London and Scotland? I've done a search here and can't find specifics. <BR> <BR>Also, what exactly would you suggest wearing? Layers? While I have no doubt we'll look like tourists anyway, what is used more often by the locals, back-packs or fanny-packs. Is it ok to use a back-pack that has a small US Flag on it (it's my favorite)? <BR> <BR>Thank you in advance for your replies!

My husband and I went to London June 8, 1998 and were surprised by how chilly it was. It was about 50 degrees F and rained every day except one (we were there a week). Great sights but be sure to bring jackets and pants!

Thank you, Sherri! Do most people wear sneakers? I plan to take lots of black --should I look for black sneakers/walking shoes? Did you see more fanny packs or back-packs? Thank you again -- and to anyone else who would care to reply!

Hi Audra! <BR>Most likely, it will be cool in the UK in June. I suggest layers...something like a twinset with a lined waterproof jacket would work well. That way you are prepared for many temps. As far as the backpack/fanny pack (or bum pack as they are called here), just use what you are comfortable with although a backpack can accomodate an umbrella which I would definitely bring. During June and July it feels as if there are more tourists than locals in London so don't worry about sticking out! I am not one to sacrifice my foot comfort for fashion, so wear whatever shoes you are comfortable with. You will not find a lot of people wearing sneakers (known as trainers here) and the ones that are wearing them are tourists or going for a workout. <BR> <BR>Hope this helps!

Thank you so very much, Michelle!! I appreciate all your insight!! I just KNOW I'm going to have more questions as our trip gets closer; in your experience, what specific piece of advice do you think is most important for first time visitors?. I know that is quite a broad question -- but I have a feeling you could give me lots of great advice! If you have time, I'd be ever so grateful!!! BTW, we'll be traveling with teenagers, too. Thanks again!

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We've gone in August and almost expired of the heat, and we live in a cool climate. We had to buy other clothes to wear in London. I don't know about Scotland, since I haven't been. Marilyn

Glad I could help Audra! <BR>As for your latest question, you are right...it is broad! So here goes...I would recommend taking a city tour on your first full day. I do this in any new city I go to and it really helps because you get a general idea of where most things are and then you can go back and decide what you want to see a little more in depth. Your hotel will be able to recommend one and make reservations for you. Second, spend some time just walking around and enjoying the people, parks, sights, etc. You never know what hidden treasure you are going to discover and you will find yourself more relaxed. Don't burden yourself with the feeling that you have to see and do everything. You will wear yourself out and most likely have an unhappy family! Just go with the flow and enjoy yourself, you will have a fabulous time! One last thing...I HIGHLY recommend going to afternoon tea while in London. I have taken many visitors and they just love it. Even if the rest of the family doesn't want to go, let them do something else one afternoon and splurge on yourself. Most of the hotels have a tea as well as the department stores. The Dorchester is one of my favorites, though!

Thanks, Michele! I appreciate your advice. Is it possible to go to tea in just regular street clothes (black jeans etc) or will it be necessary to stop back at the hotel for a quick change? <BR>Speaking of beverages....:) while I love afternoon tea, do most moderate hotel rooms have coffee makers? That's a necessity for the morning! :) <BR>Thanks again, Michele! <BR>

Hi Audra, I am also planning a scotland-london trip, towards the end of June. Do you have an itinerary planned for Scotland? We are going to be visiting the great Golf courses, but we also will be sightseeing. I'm in the midst of beginning my research for restaurants, etc. I'd love to share with you! <BR>Debi

hiya audra, <BR>i agree with the layering idea for your clothing..you can peel it off if needed..as far as the back-pack goes.. leave it at home..however handing they might be for packing stuff around.. they are awful on the tubes..i can count the times i have been whacked by someones back-pack!!better to take something you can sling over your shoulder. <BR>there is a dress code in most places that you would go for "tea"..black trousers would be fine.. leave the trainers in the hotel!! <BR>have a lovely trip to london.

Audra, I lived in Europe last year and went to England many times. 2 must have items for me were an umbrella (at all times! I learned that through experience) and a bottle of water. There are no drinking fountains and sometimes I got thirsty just for water. As for the shoes - white tennis shoes are not an in thing. I saw very few women wearing jeans - ok for the younger set. It was my opinion that the women dressed up more there than here. Layering is a good option - mornings can be cool and warm later in the day. Personally, I liked a back pack - they are in all sizes from purse on up. Your hands are free and as the day goes on the walking is easier with the load on your back rather than your shoulder. A good place to put any items you purchase as well as maps etc. Just make sure anything you carry has a closed, even locked compartment for your money, papers, passport. Not a good idea to carry passport around - most hotels have a safe in the room - use it. Black is a good color even though I got tired of it. However, it does not show dirt and goes with anything. The main thing is to be comfortable - you will have long days. You do not mention how you are getting about the country - have you thought about a Britt rail pass? They can save you so much money but must be purchased here in the states. You will be seeing some of the prettiest countryside in the world - in my opinion. I envy you. We are going to Paris in 2 weeks - but now I am thinking our next trip should be England. I never get tired of that country. If I can be of any more help feel free to e-mail at home. I have tons of "stuff" on England. Would be happy to share. Marilyn

We have been to London twice in August. The first time every day was colder and wetter than the day before—and too windy for umbrellas. Bring a packable raincoat. There are some attractive silky-looking ones that fold up into a little envelope pack. Our second visit was HOT and the hotel wasn't air-conditioned. So definitely layer and be prepared for anything! I suggest Ecco shoes; they are as comfortable as sneakers, but look better and are great for lots of walking.

Plan for the unexpected! I've been in England in June and wore nothing but very light slacks and short sleeved shirts. Another August I don't think the temperature got over 50 degrees F! You never know with England--one of its charms. So be prepared to layer, and, as so many have said, don't forget the umbrella.

Hi Audra. <BR> <BR>Clothing and temperature - June could be anything between 50-80F, I kid you not, so bring layers. There's a world of difference in what you'll see people wear depending on where you go, but in London, Edinburgh and the Highlands there are millions of tourists so I wouldn't worry about standing out. As for locals, trainers (sneakers) aren't generally worn by anyone over 25 (particularly women) unless they're going jogging. <BR> <BR>Back-packs or fanny packs? Well, the locals won't be using either - women carry handbags and men just stuff everything in their pockets, so with either you'll look like a tourist. So use whatever you're more comfortable with. There'll be a lot of tourists/hikers in Scotland (depending on where you're going) so you won't be the only ones. <BR> <BR>Just a point - we call fanny packs "bumbags". "Fanny" refers to a most intimate part of the female anatomy so you'll get some very funny looks if you go round shouting "I've got everything stuffed in my fanny". You get my drift... <BR> <BR>Hotel rooms, including B&Bs (but not some super posh hotels - 5*) will have a kettle with tea bags and instant coffee. Some weird rule means it gives them an extra star on their rating so everyone does it.

Thank you everyone! Kate, did you mean most hotels *don't* have instant coffee in the rooms except the 5 star hotels? <BR> <BR>Thanks for the heads-up on the bumbag. lol <BR> <BR>Murphy - what exactly are Ecco shoes? Do you have the URL? <BR> <BR>Thanks, all! Any add'l info greatly appreciated!

I believe it is www.ecco.com <BR> <BR>I swear by my Ecco shoes! After 1 trip to London and 2 to Paris they are still in pretty good shape. Ecco makes a great walking shoe. I think they are more comfortable than tennis shoes and look a heck of a lot better. I wear mine typically with slacks, and never felt out of place. Definitely bring an umbrella. I prefer the really compact kind that Totes make, that folds up easily and fits nicely in a day bag. I have used all types of bags, whether it be backpacks, fanny packs (I dislike those the most), and a bag thrown over my shoulder. I like the backpack the best, even though it might not look the greatest, it holds everything nicely. Plus after a full day sight seeing with guide books, camera, umbrella, and anything you might purchase along the way, a back pack distributes the weight better. After a long day, I don't want both tired feet and shoulders.

Thank you, Tammy! The shoes sound great. I'll definitely look for them!

Hi Audra, no, I meant that all hotels and B&Bs will have instant coffee and tea in the rooms, but NOT 5 star hotels. 5 star hotels probably expect you to order cappucino from room service.