Winter in the UK: how I learned to embrace the cold
When I first arrived in the UK, I had no
idea just how cold and grey winter could be. As someone used to milder
climates, I thought a regular hoodie and an umbrella would do the job—spoiler
alert: they didn’t!
But like most things, I adapted. Here are some tips I wish I had known earlier, to help you stay warm, healthy and happy during your first UK winter.
As someone who came from a much warmer climate, I initially found the shorter days and unpredictable weather quite difficult to manage.
However, over time, I developed a few habits and
tips that not only helped me cope with the cold but also made me enjoy the
winter season in ways I hadn’t expected.
One of the first lessons I learned was: your hoodie won’t save you! UK winters are damp, windy, and far colder than I expected—you need more than just a sweatshirt to stay warm.
Luckily, one of my friends who was already in the UK gave me a valuable tip: buy your winter clothes here.
Back home, our winter wear just isn’t made for the UK’s weather conditions. So, I invested in a proper winter coat—and it was a game-changer. Look for something waterproof, windproof, and ideally with a hood. If it covers your thighs and has inner insulation, even better. I also stocked up on thermal layers—tops and leggings I could wear under jeans and jumpers. They’re lightweight, comfortable, and surprisingly effective.
And don’t underestimate the power of accessories—scarves, gloves, hats, and warm socks really do make a big difference when it’s freezing outside.
Tip: Check out stores like Primark, H&M, or Uniqlo for affordable
options.
Another tip I swear by is: get outside
whenever the sun is out—even if it’s freezing. Natural daylight is limited
during UK winters, and spending too much time indoors can leave you feeling
low, tired, or sluggish. I made it a habit to take short walks whenever there
was a bit of sunshine—even if it was just to the shop or around campus. It
always gave me a boost of energy and lifted my mood. I also picked up a vitamin
D3 supplement from a local shop, since I learned that it helps support bone
health and energy when sunlight is scarce.
If you’re someone who struggles with the
shorter days, try engaging in indoor activities to stay active and connected. I
joined a few university clubs and societies that hosted events and workshops
indoors during winter—it helped me stay engaged and meet people even when I
didn’t feel like braving the cold. Visiting the Learning Resource Centre (LRC)
to study with friends also gave me a change of scene and kept the winter blues
at bay.
One essential winter rule I learned? Always carry an umbrella!
UK weather is
unpredictable—it can go from sunshine to rain in minutes. Having a good
umbrella or a waterproof coat with a hood became part of my daily essentials.
I also made a conscious effort to stay
in touch with my family back home through video calls. Just hearing
familiar voices and sharing daily updates made me feel less homesick and more
emotionally grounded.
And most importantly, I learned to be kind
to myself. Winter can affect your energy, mood, and productivity—especially
when you’re far from home. Some days, you might feel tired or low, and that’s
completely okay. Allow yourself time to rest, recharge, and prioritise your
wellbeing.
What started as a daunting, grey season slowly turned into a time of growth, reflection, and cosy moments. With the right mindset, warm layers, and a little self-care, my first UK winter became not just manageable—but genuinely memorable.
Final thoughts
Adapting to UK winters was a learning curve, but with the right clothing, cosy routines, and support systems, it became a season of comfort and growth.
Whether it’s investing in a good coat, soaking up rare sunshine, staying active indoors, or keeping in touch with loved ones—small steps made a big difference. So, embrace the chill, be kind to yourself, and remember: even winter can be warm in its own way.
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