Does it rain a lot in England?
England is known for frequent rain, but it is not as wet as many people think. London receives around 600 millimetres of rain a year, less than cities such as Rome, Sydney or New York.
England's reputation for rain comes from the fact that it rains often, in light showers, rather than in heavy downpours. Grey, cloudy skies are common, especially in autumn and winter.
The weather is influenced by the Atlantic Ocean and the prevailing westerly winds, which bring moist air and changeable conditions.
Wetter in the west
The west and north of England are much wetter than the east and south. The Lake District in Cumbria is the wettest part of England, with some places receiving more than 3,000 millimetres a year.
The east, especially East Anglia and Essex, is among the driest regions of the country and sometimes experiences drought.
Weather can change quickly, so sunshine and showers on the same day are common. This unpredictability is one reason why the weather is such a popular topic of conversation in England. Umbrellas and raincoats are essential items for visitors.