The Best Coat for London Winter (or Spring & Autumn!)

Whether you’re moving to the British capital or simply planning a visit, I think finding the perfect coat for a London winter or really any time of year is an essential thing you should do before arriving in the city.

Unfortunately, in many coats and jackets, practicality often trumps style and the warmest and most effective coats can often leave a lot to be desired when it comes to both looks and usability.

That’s why I have compiled this list of coats and jackets to wear in London that mix both the classic style prevalent on the streets of the capital along with both warming and water-resistant properties — two very important things when visiting this iconic city!

As a former Londoner myself, I am acutely aware of all of the best things to look out for when it comes to outerwear in the city and have used my extensive knowledge to compile this list!

Coat for London Comparison

London Weather

London winters are dark and wet but, contrary to popular belief from those who aren’t from the UK, winters aren’t that cold (of course, this is all relative).

The stereotype of London being incredibly rainy holds especially true in the winter months, which are the rainiest of the year, January in particular. With high temperatures that hover around 9-10°C (48-50°F) in the months of December-February, London doesn’t also see a lot of snow.

You may get a day or two of snow where there will be a light dusting, however, it very rarely will stick for longer than a day and it’s an anomaly when it does. You can, however, expect plenty of freezing rain!

If you’re looking for a great jacket for the autumn or spring months, then you should know that the rain doesn’t really stop in September-October or March-May, it just doesn’t rain quite as much.

Temperatures average a little bit on the warmer side, especially in September and May, however, you’re still going to want a jacket or coat for chilly days and cold evenings.

Because of the cold and wet weather that London experiences, you do need to make sure that you have appropriate outerwear including good shoes for London that will keep you dry and warm in the British capital without sacrificing your style.

What to Look For in Coats

First off, you’re going to want to make sure that your coat is made from a durable material that will keep you warm even when it is wet and cold outside.

Wool is particularly good for this, as it is heavy and insulated and also will continue to keep warm even when it gets wet — perfect if you get caught out in the rain without an umbrella (though, in London, it’s unwise to leave home without an umbrella!).

Because of how rainy it can get in London, it is also worth looking for a coat that has some water-resistant properties.

While this isn’t 100% necessary, especially if you find yourself a wool coat and have a good umbrella, it can be a great addition to your outerwear and certainly, some of the best coats are water-resistant.

The final thing that you need to look out for is its insulation and the ability to layer underneath it. Especially if you’re flitting between being outside and inside, you’re going to want to dress in layers while in London because of how warm it can be inside compared to the frigid outdoor temperatures.

Because of this, you don’t want to pick a jacket or coat that is too form-fitting or skin-tight. Find something that you can wear a jumper underneath and you will be a happy person!

Best Women’s Coats

Nautica Double-Breasted Peacoat

If you’re after a classic wool coat that will stand the test of time and last you for years to come, then you absolutely cannot go wrong with this Nautica Peacoat.

This incredibly stylish coat is made from a heavy wool material that will keep you warm even on the coldest of days.

It has a flattering, tailored cut that is not too form-fitting, meaning that you can wear it on top of a thick jumper or other layers if need be.

It comes in an array of colours to suit any style and personality and is made from a sturdy and durable material that will last countless winter seasons. It also has the added benefit that it can easily be dressed up or down depending on the situation.

The North Face Women’s Gotham

If you’d rather go for more of a parka route rather than a wool overcoat route, then you’re sure to love The North Face Gotham jacket (also available from Zappos here).

I think the insulated goose-down parka is perfect for those cold London winter days and nights and it is sure to keep you toasty warm and dry while in the British capital.

It is specifically made “for city cold” and its goal is not to let the cold prevent you from exploring the streets of a city despite the weather. It does that well!

With advanced insulation, wind and water-resistant properties and even a hood with a removable faux fur collar, I think this is the perfect coat for staying warm in the cold.

Wantdo Ultra Light Down Jacket

I think the Wantdo Light Down Jacket is perfect for those on a trip to London looking to pack light, making it a great jacket for the shoulder seasons, though not necessarily ideal for the coldest winter months (think December-February).

This jacket is incredibly lightweight and completely packable down to just a small pouch that can easily be stuffed in a suitcase or backpack, making it a great jacket for travellers.

Its down interior means that it is well insulated and will keep you nice and warm. It is also wind and water-repellent, so you’re not out of luck if you’re caught out without an umbrella!

Best Men’s Coats

Cole Haan Signature Wool Plush Car Coat

If you’re a style-focused and fashion-forward man on the hunt for a great winter coat, then I suggest the Cole Haan Car Coat (also available from Zappos here).

This heavy wool coat has an instantly classic look that will stay in style for years to come and will certainly fit in while traipsing along the streets of London.

The coat is made from a heavy 100% wool material, meaning that it will keep you perfectly warm even if it happens to get wet. The cut is tailored and flattering while still allowing you to layer underneath it.

It is also a coat that can easily be dressed up or down depending on the circumstances.

North Face Men’s Aconcagua 3

If you’re more interested in getting a parka for your London winter coat than a wool overcoat, you cannot go wrong with the North Face Aconcagua 3. This parka is insulated, incredibly warm, stylish for a day in London and is perfect for the casual man.

Water and wind-resistant, I think this is the ideal coat for exploring a city comfortably even on the coldest of days.

It is well-made, filled with cosy down blend and has an adjustable hood.

Wantdo Men’s Wool Pea Coat

Searching for the perfect raincoat that doesn’t sacrifice quality, warmth or style? You cannot go wrong with the Wantdo Pea Coat.

This coat has a sleek and stylish look that I think is perfect on the streets of the British capital.

It is the perfect coat if you’re looking for something lighter for the shoulder seasons or an outer layer for wearing several warm tops and a jumper underneath. It also has several spacious pockets making it ideal for exploring the city during the day,

Tommy Hilfiger Ultra Loft Puffer Jacket

Finally, on this list comes an excellent option for those looking for a cool, stylish, casual and packable option for the British capital – the Tommy Hilfiger Ultra Loft Jacket.

This jacket is perfect for those who are travelling to London and not looking to add to their valuable luggage space or who aren’t keen to lug around a heavy coat on their trip.

It is made from 100% nylon and is incredibly well-insulated and perfect for those who are travelling to London in the shoulder seasons.

It is completely packable, comes in a wide array of colours and sizes and is water-resistant to an extent, meaning that you’re not out of luck if you get caught out in the rain.

If you follow the advice above, you’re sure to be warm, dry and stylish whether you’re visiting London for a short period of time or plan to be there for years to come!

Are you searching for a coat for London winter? Have any questions? Let us know in the comments below!