UV season UK
UK UV levels most often require sun protection from April to September, peaking in June and July.
Countdown
264
days to go
Next date
Thursday, 1 April 2027
2027 UV season begins
Get a reminder 7 days before UV season UK
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Upcoming dates
| Event | Date | Countdown | Region / notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2027 UV season begins | Thursday, 1 April 2027 | In 9 months | UV index 3+ becomes more likely |
| 2027 peak UV period | Tuesday, 15 June 2027 | In 11 months | Typically June-July |
| 2027 UV season ends | Thursday, 30 September 2027 | In 1 year 3 months | UK |
In the UK, UV levels most often need active sun protection from April to September, with the strongest levels usually in June and July. NHS guidance is to use sun protection when the UV index is 3 or above, including SPF30 or higher, shade and protective clothing. UV can still be high on cool or partly cloudy days, so the forecast is a better guide than temperature.
health
SPF and sun protection
Verified 14 May 2026
Questions
When is UV strongest in the UK?
Usually June and July, around the longest days of the year.
When do I need SPF in the UK?
NHS guidance is to protect skin when the UV index is 3 or above.
Can UV be high when it is cloudy?
Yes. Cloud reduces some UV but does not remove the need for protection when the UV index is high.