Spring: a season of change

It’s a time when nature awakens, and the landscape transforms in preparation for summer.

When does spring start?

How the first day of spring is defined depends on whether you are referring to astronomical or meteorological spring.

Meteorological spring 

In the UK, meteorological spring always begins on 1 March and ends on 31 May. This method divides the year into four fixed seasons, each lasting three months, making it easier to track weather patterns and compare statistics.

Astronomical spring 

Astronomical spring starts on the vernal equinox, around 20 March in the Northern Hemisphere, when day and night are roughly equal in length. The exact dates can vary each year due to the Earth’s tilt and orbit around the Sun.

Signs of spring

Spring’s arrival is often recognised by:

• Longer days: Daylight increases, with the vernal equinox marking a balance of 12 hours of day and night.
• Warming temperatures: The sun climbs higher in the sky, raising daytime temperatures, though nights can remain cool due to the ocean’s moderating effect.
• Nature’s signals: Many people notice spring through phenological signs—like the blossoming of plants or increased animal activity. The term “vernal” comes from the Latin for “bloom,” highlighting this natural renewal.

Weather in spring

• Calm and dry: The UK often experiences calm, dry weather in spring, as the Atlantic Ocean has lost much of its heat over winter.
• Regional differences: Northern areas, such as Scotland, tend to be cooler, while southern regions are warmer.
• Surprising snow: Statistically, snow or sleet is more likely in March than December, so snow at Easter isn’t unusual.
• Average temperature: The long-term average for UK spring is 8.08°C (1991–2020).
• Sense of smell: Increased moisture in the air can make your sense of smell more acute in spring.
• Pollen Season: While spring is linked to pollen, some types can appear as early as January.