April 2025 UK Weather: Sunny Record, Not Hottest April

A headline written before April 2025 ended predicted the “hottest April on record”. The observed UK figures tell a more precise story. A forecast is dated; once the month is over, the final assessment should replace the prediction.

What did the Met Office record?

The Met Office April 2025 assessment says the UK recorded its sunniest April in the series beginning in 1910, with 228.9 hours of sunshine, 47% above the long-term average. The UK mean temperature was 9.6°C, the third warmest April in the series beginning in 1884. It was not the hottest April for mean temperature.

Sunshine, heat and UV are different measures

A sunny month does not imply every day was hot or that a particular person could safely remain outdoors longer. Temperature records and UV exposure answer different questions. A historical weather graphic should be labelled with its date, area and measure rather than presented as a current forecast.

How to use this retrospective

For a future outdoor visit, check the current local forecast and follow NHS sun-safety guidance when the sun is strong. Our heat-alert interpretation guide explains how to read live warnings. This post records what actually happened in April 2025; it is not a tanning product recommendation.