Temperatures look set to soar across the UK this week, with some regions expected to be as warm as Ibiza.
Spring sunshine is expected across much of the UK with high pressure bringing above average temperatures ahead of the weekend, according to the Met Office.
Wednesday saw mixed picture with those in the south of England seeing sunny weather and highs of 17C. Those further north, however, had cloudy skies and chilly temperatures of around 12C.
But forecasters are predicting strong sunshine and highs of 20C across the country on Thursday, with southeastern areas expected to reach 22C, according to the Met Office. It will match high temperatures on the Spanish island of Ibiza, where the mercury is also set to get up to 22C.
The Met Office said conditions are likely to remain breezy in the southwest, but that lighter winds elsewhere will allow temperatures to climb.
Steven Keates, deputy chief forecaster at the agency said a prolonged spell of high pressure over the weekend means conditions are expected to remain mostly sunny and dry.
"As is often the case, there are a few exceptions, with cloudier conditions for some at times and patchy rain possible for northern Scotland later in the weekend, so keep an eye on the forecast as the week progresses,” Mr Keates added.
He said temperatures are expected to steadily climb amid sunny conditions, with temperatures likely to peak in the low twenties.
But onshore breezes in coastal areas will bring cooler temperatures, he added.
Eddy Leviten, executive director at Tourism Alliance said: “This is when the UK shows what it does best. Few destinations can match the range on offer, with coast, countryside, heritage, events, attractions, culture, and cities, all within easy reach.
“For our members, it’s a clear window to drive bookings, support jobs and deliver real value to the UK economy. The visitor economy is one of our biggest economic sectors, worth £147bn.”
Wednesday evening and tonight:
Dry with clear spells. Cloudier across eastern parts of Scotland and northeast England. A patchy frost possible in the countryside with mist and fog in prone spots. Remaining breezy across southwest England, especially along the coasts and hills.
Thursday:
Morning low cloud lifting to leave a fine day, with plenty of sunshine. Still breezy in the southwest. Warm for most, but remaining chilly along eastern coasts.
Outlook for Friday to Sunday:
Staying largely fine and dry, with plenty of sunshine through this period. Some overnight fog and frost, mainly in the east. Feeling warm, with temperatures above average for many.
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