Things to Do in London in March
Blossom, boat races and the city waking up
March is when London exhales and colour returns. Magnolia and cherry blossom break out across the Royal Parks and leafy squares, the clocks spring forward to bring lighter evenings, and the first pavement tables reappear outside cafés and pubs. It is a month of big set-piece occasions: the Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race powering down the Thames between Putney and Mortlake, the green tide of St Patrick's Day around Trafalgar Square, and UK Mother's Day, which fills the city's tearooms and restaurants. The energy is unmistakable — after the long winter, London is opening back up.
Weather
Changeable and improving, with highs climbing to around 11°C. Expect a mix of bright spring sunshine and sudden showers.
Daylight
The clocks go forward on the last Sunday of March, jumping the sunset to around 7.30pm and transforming the feel of the evenings.
What's on in March
The annual events and traditions that return to London every March.
The Boat Race
The historic Oxford v Cambridge rowing contest draws huge riverside crowds along the Championship Course between Putney and Mortlake.
St Patrick's Day
A parade and festival centred on Trafalgar Square turn the city green, with the pubs of the West End and beyond joining in.
Mother's Day
UK Mothering Sunday falls in March, and afternoon teas, roasts and riverside restaurants book up quickly for the occasion.
Seasonal ideas for March
Find the blossom
Kew Gardens, Greenwich Park and the squares of Kensington put on the city's best early blossom displays.
Claim a pavement table
The first warm afternoons bring alfresco pints and coffees back to Soho, Shoreditch and the South Bank.
Planning your March visit
- Book Mother's Day afternoon teas and roasts well ahead — it is one of the busiest dining days of the year.
- Arrive early for a good Boat Race viewing spot along the towpath.
- Keep a light waterproof handy for March's fast-changing weather.