Marijuana Laws

Marijuana Laws in London follow United Kingdom’s national law. Local variations are uncommon—jurisdiction law sets the baseline for legality and penalties.

Recreational cannabis is illegal. Medical cannabis may be prescribed by specialists for certain conditions, though access remains limited. Some hemp-derived products may be sold under separate rules, but that does not mean marijuana is legal, and legality can depend on product content and labeling. Unauthorized possession carries legal risk.

Quick facts

• Recreational: Illegal
• Medical: Available via specialist prescription
• Possession: Illegal without prescription
• Buying/Selling: Illegal outside licensed medical
• Tourists: No routine access to medical prescriptions

Practical guidance

Avoid cross-border transport of cannabis products. Do not assume informal tolerance equals legality.

Legislative Background

The UK rescheduled cannabis for medical use in 2018, allowing specialist doctors to prescribe cannabis-based medicinal products for conditions where evidence supports benefit (such as certain forms of epilepsy or multiple sclerosis). Recreational use remains fully illegal, classified as a Class B drug with potential criminal penalties for possession or supply.