Suntrap Cities: The Sunniest & Hottest Places in the UK Revealed

The UK might not always be known for sunny days, but there are plenty of cities that are often bathed in sunshine, heat, or — let’s be honest — rain! Whether you’re planning a staycation, a sunny day out, or just curious what part of the country soaks up the most sun, we’ve got you covered.

We’ve ranked and revealed the UK’s sunniest, hottest, and rainiest places based on the latest climate data from the Met Office. Plus, Lori Delaney, Marketing Manager here at Trtl, has also given us some top tips for making a day out in the UK more affordable.

So, if you’re dreaming of a sun-soaked city or looking for a place to dodge the seasonal showers, read on!

Methodology

To determine the sunniest, hottest, and rainiest cities in the UK, we analysed the following metrics from the Met Office UK Climate Averages:

• Average annual sunshine hours — The total daily sunshine hours averaged over the year.
• Average annual temperature — The mean daily maximum and minimum temperatures.
• Average annual precipitation — Total yearly rainfall in millimetres.

This data comes from weather stations used for local forecasts, giving us the most representative long-term patterns for each city.

Key findings

• Bristol holds the crown for the sunniest city in the UK, enjoying an average of 138.19 annual sunshine hours.
• Glasgow is named the gloomiest city in the UK, with a mere 102.83 annual sunshine hours.
• Cardiff takes the top spot for the hottest city, with an average annual temperature of 14.92°C, followed closely by London and Bristol.
• Cardiff also ranks as the UK’s rainiest city, with 100.27mm of precipitation on average each year.

The UK's sunniest cities

If you’re looking to soak up some rays, these cities will offer plenty of sunshine for your next adventure.

1. Bristol

Known for its vibrant atmosphere and creative spirit, Bristol tops the list as the sunniest city in the UK, with an impressive 138.19 hours of sunshine per year.

Best places to enjoy the sunshine — Clifton Suspension Bridge is a must-see, offering panoramic views of the Avon Gorge and a perfect backdrop for a sunny day. If you love a good stroll, make your way to Bristol Zoo Gardens, one of the oldest zoos in the world, where you can spot your favourite animals and walk through lush gardens under the sun.

Or, why not grab a bite at one of the many sunny spots along the Harbourside? Here, you can watch the boats sail by and soak up the sun with a cool drink in hand. The blend of history, culture, and sunshine makes this city the perfect spot for outdoor adventures.

2. Cardiff

With 131.08 hours of annual sunshine, Cardiff doesn’t just shine when it comes to weather — it also offers a bustling cultural scene.

Best places to enjoy the sunshine — Head to Bute Park, a green oasis right in the heart of the city, ideal for picnics, relaxed walks, and spotting local wildlife. Just a short walk away, you’ll find Cardiff Castle, where you can explore the city’s history and the stunning gardens shrouded in the sun. 

If you want to get out on the water, take a boat trip along Cardiff Bay to enjoy the weather while getting a different view of the skyline. The mix of culture, parks, and waterfront activities makes Cardiff a go-to destination for anyone craving sun and fun.

3. London

The UK capital, with an average of 129.95 sunshine hours, is known for its iconic landmarks and sunny strolls throughout the city.

Best place to enjoy the sunshine — You can’t visit London without experiencing Hyde Park, one of the city’s largest and most famous green spaces, where you can sunbathe, enjoy a row on the Serpentine, or grab a picnic with friends.

Another great spot to catch some rays is Kensington Gardens, home to the stunning Kensington Palace. Here, the royal history and landscaped gardens provide a perfect backdrop for your sunny day out. For panoramic views of the city, make your way to The Strand and admire London’s skyline from above, particularly beautiful on a clear, sunny day.

4. Birmingham

With 125.11 hours of sunshine, Birmingham is another great place to enjoy some sun..

Best places to enjoy the sunshine — Visit Cannon Hill Park, one of Birmingham’s largest green spaces. It’s perfect for a relaxing day out, with lakes, woodlands, and wide open spaces to enjoy under the sun.

If you’re more into nature, Birmingham Botanical Gardens is a great escape from the bustling city. It offers beautifully curated gardens full of vibrant plants that are perfect for soaking in some sunshine. Jewellery Quarter is also a wonderful place to wander, with its mix of heritage buildings and outdoor cafes where you can enjoy the city at its very best.

5. Sheffield

Boasting 123.76 hours of sunshine annually, Sheffield is a city full of parks and green spaces.

Best places to enjoy the sunshine — Endcliffe Park is a must-visit for nature lovers, with wide green lawns, peaceful lakes, and shaded green areas perfect for picnics and relaxing under the sun. 

If you want something a little more adventurous, the Peak District National Park is just a short drive from the city, offering stunning landscapes and plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy in all weathers. If you’re in the mood for a leisurely stroll, the Sheffield Winter Gardens provides a lush, indoor oasis where you can still enjoy a warmer climate while escaping the heat outside.

The UK's hottest cities

Ready to turn up the heat? These cities aren’t just warm in spirit; they also top the charts for the highest average temperatures in the UK.

1. Cardiff

At 14.92°C, Cardiff enjoys the warmest average annual temperatures in the UK — and it’s not just the climate that makes the city feel so welcoming!

Best places to enjoy the heat —  For a more historical take on the outdoors, spend a few hours at St Fagans National Museum of History, an open-air museum, where you can explore historical Welsh buildings in a picturesque setting. 

If you’re after a more sporty option, head to the Principality Stadium and catch an event or a guided tour — it’s an iconic part of Cardiff life.

2. London

London keeps things warm with an average annual temperature of 14.64°C, which is great for making the most of the city’s outdoor spaces year-round.

Best places to enjoy the heat — Regent’s Park is a brilliant spot for sunny days, you’ll find gorgeous rose gardens and open fields perfect for picnics. Another must-see in the sunshine is Kew Gardens, where tropical glasshouses and vast outdoor gardens are ideal for a day spent exploring nature. 

Or head to South Bank for an easygoing stroll along the Thames with riverside bars, street performers, and plenty of spots to stop and soak up the heat.

3. Bristol

With an average temperature of 14.5°C, Bristol enjoys a mild and often warm climate that’s perfect for outdoor exploration throughout the year.

Best places to enjoy the heat — Spend a sunny afternoon at The Downs, a huge open green space with walking paths and stunning views over Avon Gorge. Or take a trip to Ashton Court Estate, a beautiful historic parkland with ancient oak trees, deer herds, and excellent picnic spots.

On warmer days, Bristol’s colourful Stokes Croft and Harbourside areas come alive with street art, markets and buzzing outdoor cafes, perfect for enjoying the city’s warmest moments.

4. Nottingham

Nottingham, with an average temperature of 14.26°C, is a great choice for a warm and welcoming UK city break.

Best places to enjoy the heat — Nottingham Arboretum is a beautiful green space in the heart of the city, ideal for lazy summer days with friends and family. Or explore Wollaton Hall and Deer Park, where you’ll find sweeping parklands, a historic house, and even free-roaming deer — all bathed in sunshine during the warmer months.

The city’s pedestrianised centre is also a great spot for outdoor cafes and people-watching on sunny days.

5. Leicester

With an average temperature of 14.26°C, Leicester matches Nottingham for warmth and offers plenty to do outdoors.

Best places to enjoy the heat — Bradgate Park is one of the best outdoor spaces in the region. Its wild beauty, rugged paths, and ancient ruins make it ideal for exploring in warm weather. In the city centre, Victoria Park is a popular sunny day destination, hosting everything from festivals to outdoor events. 

For something more relaxed, wander around Leicester’s Market and enjoy fresh food and local produce in the open air.

The UK's rainiest cities

Sometimes the weather just doesn’t play ball. But a rainy day doesn’t have to put a damper on your plans!

1. Cardiff

Ironically, Cardiff also tops the charts as the UK’s rainiest city, with an average annual rainfall of 100.27mm, but luckily, it’s packed with indoor attractions. 

Best indoor activities — St David’s Hall hosts live music, comedy, and cultural performances, perfect for escaping a rainy day in style. Or, explore National Museum Cardiff, where you can spend hours discovering everything from art and archaeology to natural history. 

If you fancy a bit of retail therapy, St David’s Shopping Centre offers a huge range of shops and eateries, all under cover!

2. Manchester

With 99.77mm of rainfall, Manchester is famous for its soggy skies, but the city more than makes up for it with brilliant indoor spaces.

Best indoor activities — Curious minds should head straight for the Science and Industry Museum, where interactive exhibits bring Manchester’s industrial history to life. Art lovers won’t want to miss The Whitworth, with its stunning galleries and indoor spaces.

And when in doubt, you can always spend a rainy afternoon in the iconic Northern Quarter, the perfect place for a good coffee and a bit of people watching.

3. Glasgow

With 96.12mm of annual rainfall, Glasgow is another city where you’ll want a few good rainy-day options up your sleeve.

Best indoor activities — Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is a firm favourite. It’s one of Scotland's top attractions and houses everything from fine art to natural history exhibits. The newly refurbished Burrell Collection is another indoor gem, located in Pollock Country Park.

If you fancy something a little different, try catching a gig at King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut, a legendary live music venue where famous acts got their start, like Coldplay and Radiohead.

4. Leeds

With 88.11 mm of rainfall each year, Leeds can be a bit drizzly, but there’s plenty to do indoors when the heavens open.

Best indoor activities — The Royal Armouries Museum is a fascinating spot where you can explore arms, armour, and historical exhibitions spread across five floors. 

Art lovers should visit Leeds Art Gallery, known for its impressive collection of 20th-century British art. If shopping’s more your thing, Victoria Leeds offers a luxurious indoor shopping experience with beautiful architecture to admire in between shops.

5. Sheffield

Sheffield rounds out the top five, with 69.3mm of annual rainfall, but thankfully, this green city has a great mix of indoor and covered spaces.

Best indoor activities — The Winter Garden is a lovely place to start. It’s one of the largest temperate glasshouses in the UK and a brilliant escape from the rain.

For more culture, the Millennium Gallery offers everything from contemporary art to historic craftsmanship exhibits. Or, catch a show at the Lyceum or the Crucible Theatre, where you can enjoy the best of the city’s performing arts while staying dry.

How to make a day out in the UK more affordable

Whether you’re chasing the sun, dodging the rain, or just looking to explore somewhere new, a great day out doesn’t have to cost the earth.

1. Free activities

Sometimes the best things in life really are free. From lush green spaces to world-class museums, there’s plenty to enjoy without spending a penny.

• Parks and green spaces — Cities like Manchester, Leeds, and Bristol are packed with beautiful parks perfect for sunny strolls, a game of rounders, or a laid-back picnic with friends.
  
  
• Museums and galleries — Many of the UK’s museums and galleries offer free entry, and they’re great places to duck into if the weather takes a turn.
  
  
• Local events — Keep an eye on local social media pages and tourist
  information centres. You’ll often find free events like festivals, markets, or summer concerts happening throughout the year.

Lori says, “A bit of research before you set off can help you find fantastic free activities, and sometimes they end up being the highlight of your trip!”

2. Food and drink

Eating out can quickly add up, but with a bit of planning, you can keep things delicious and affordable.

• Picnics — Packing your own picnic is a great way to enjoy local parks and outdoor spaces. It’s cheaper, more flexible (if you have picky eaters!), and lets you enjoy your favourite treats with a view.
  
  
• Snacks and drinks — Carry a reusable water bottle and a few snacks to avoid pricey purchases at attractions or tourist hotspots.

“A simple picnic or a few packed snacks can save you a small fortune. It also lets you be spontaneous with where you stop to eat,” says Lori.

3. Discounts and deals

A quick bit of research before your trip can unlock some brilliant savings.

• Online deals — Sites like Groupon often have discounts on local attractions, dining, and activities. You can also check local councils and tourist websites for special offers.
  
  
• Group discounts — If you’re heading out with friends and family, see if you can take advantage of group rates at museums, tours, or even on transport.

Lori says, “If you know you want to visit a few paid attractions, it’s well worth hunting for online deals or discount passes – they’re often easier to find than you might think!”

4. Transport

Getting around can eat into your budget, but it doesn’t have to.

• Public transport — Most UK cities have reliable and affordable public transport networks, from buses and trams to trains and river ferries. It’s often much cheaper (and more relaxing) than driving and parking.
  
  
• Cycling — Many cities now offer cycle hire schemes, a fun and budget-friendly way to explore, especially when the sun is shining.

“Embrace public transport where you can,” says Lori. “It’s not only more affordable, but it can give you a much better feel for the city.”

5. Exploring local options

You don’t always need to tick off every major tourist attraction; some of the best experiences can be found off the beaten path.

• Free city walks — Many UK cities offer self-guided walking tours. These are brilliant ways to soak up local history and hidden gems at your own pace.
  
  
• Local attractions — Markets, historic buildings, and quirky local landmarks are often free or inexpensive to visit, and give you a real feel for the place you’re exploring.

“Don’t overlook the smaller or local spots – they’re sometimes more affordable, less busy, and give you a more authentic experience of the place you’re visiting,” explains Lori.

Make the most of the weather with Trtl Travel

Whether you’re planning a sunny city break, hoping to explore one of the UK’s warmest spots, or simply want to stay dry on a rainy-day adventure, knowing where to go (and how to plan ahead) can help you make the most of your trip.

And remember, a great day out doesn’t need to cost a fortune! If you’re hitting the road this summer, don’t forget to pack your Trtl Travel Pillow for extra comfort on long journeys — it’s the perfect companion for road trips, train rides and flights!

If you’re looking for more inspo, take a look at our blog page.