UK set to be hotter than Ibiza this weekend after Brits enjoy warmest day of the year

The UK has experienced the warmest day of the year so far, with temperatures hitting highs of 17.5C in areas like Wiggonholt, West Sussex, whilst parts of western Wales hit 17C.

The warm weather will continue on Saturday. Temperatures are set to soar to 15C to 18C across the UK – levels well above average for March.

Many places will be balmier than Ibiza, where temperatures of 16C are predicted.

The highest temperatures will be reached in north-west Scotland, where the mercury could hit 20C in some sheltered glens.

Forecaster Richard Miles said it would be “very fine and warm” and “sunny for many people”.

The pleasant conditions are thanks to the jet stream tracking well to the north of the UK, letting high pressure dominate from the east, he explained.

The high pressure is centred over Denmark, which is primed to see its highest pressure record ever, the Met Office said.

However, gusty winds will blow across southern England, northern Ireland and western Scotland, which could make it feel a little cooler than the high temperatures would suggest.

The high pressure is expected to pull away from Britain on Sunday, and while temperatures are still expected to be higher than normal, the day is forecast to be slightly cooler and cloudier.

Some showers are also possible in south-east England, but dry weather should prevail everywhere else with sunshine particularly in western areas.

Mr Miles said it would be “a bit cooler Sunday, Monday, and then high pressure gets back in charge and things settle down again from Tuesday”.

“It’s safe to say that high pressure will continue to dominate for certainly the first half of next week,” he said, indicating more clear skies and sunshine are on the way.