Britain is preparing for a significant rise in temperatures this week, with forecasts suggesting parts of the country could become warmer than Athens by Friday. According to weather forecasts, temperatures in London may reach 26C, bringing early-summer conditions just in time for the upcoming bank holiday weekend.

After a period of unsettled conditions, many areas across the UK are expected to enjoy warmer and brighter weather. Forecasts indicate Manchester could see temperatures around 23C, while Cardiff is expected to reach approximately 20C later in the week.

The warmer trend is also likely to continue through the late May bank holiday period. In London, temperatures are predicted to stay pleasant, reaching around 23C on Saturday before climbing again to roughly 24C on both Sunday and Monday.

Meteorologists at the Met Office say the shift toward warmer conditions should become more noticeable from Thursday onwards. Forecaster Annie Shuttleworth explained that temperatures are expected to rise above seasonal averages, particularly across southern regions. Some parts of southeast England could even experience mid-20C temperatures as the holiday weekend approaches.

The change in weather comes after a cooler spell that brought gusty winds and showers to the northern parts of the UK. Although unsettled conditions are still expected during the first half of the week, forecasters believe a warmer pattern will gradually develop.

Met Office forecaster Craig Snell said weather conditions early in the week will remain mixed, with rain and showers affecting several regions. Temperatures are also expected to remain slightly below average initially before conditions improve later in the week.

Monday is expected to bring alternating sunshine and showers, with some heavier bursts of rain and isolated thunderstorms possible. A larger area of rain is forecast to spread across many regions later in the day.

Tuesday may continue with windy and unsettled conditions, including periods of heavy rain and the chance of thunder. By Wednesday, a mix of sunny spells and showers is anticipated, while southern England could see temperatures rise toward 20 °C.

The outlook for Thursday and Friday appears much more promising. Weather conditions are expected to become drier and brighter, particularly across England and Wales, where the warmest temperatures are likely. Forecasters believe southeastern areas could experience the highest values, potentially reaching 26 °C by Friday.

Weather experts suggest England and Wales are likely to enjoy the best sunshine during the bank holiday weekend, offering many people the chance to make the most of the improved conditions.