The UK could be set for 20C scorcher in time for the return of the Rule of Six as lockdown easing finally allows for more socialising outdoors.
As conditions turn more unsettled over the next 24 hours - the weekend could bring plenty of sunshine across the country, continuing into next week, when new Covid rules come into place on Monday.
From Monday, changes in the rules mean six people can meet in an outdoor setting - with millions set to head outdoors for picnics and host barbecues.
Saturday is likely to signal the start of the warmer weather, with temperatures possibly soaring to 20C in London and as high as 19C further north in Sheffield.
Are you looking forward to the weather warming up? Let us know in the comments below
Met Office forecaster Simon Partridge said: "It's been a long and bleak winter in lockdown, with a mixture of all sorts of weather.
"But as the country takes its next step on the roadmap we're in for some long-overdue sunshine.
"People will be able to meet up with other households in back gardens and, dare I say it, enjoy a barbecue."
With temperatures above average for the time of year, Brits who have endured a long and gruelling third lockdown over winter will be welcoming plenty of time outside.
And Brits could continue see the sunshine stretching into Easter weekend as bookmakers slash the odds for the holiday being one of the hottest on record.
Alex Apati of Ladbrokes said: "It looks as though we've turned a corner on the weather front and we could well be in for some record-breaking high temperatures over the coming weeks."
The national lockdown expires on March 31 and the new legislation is designed to enshrine the Prime Minister's four-step lockdown exit plan in law.
Step 1 began on March 8, with the reopening of schools and a slight easing of restrictions to let people meet one other person outside for a coffee or a picnic.
The second part of Step 1 is due on March 29, which will allow up to six people to meet outdoors but restricts indoor gatherings of two or more people.
Some outdoor sports are permitted, and open air facilities like swimming pools and tennis courts can reopen.
Step 2, which could come into effect from April 12, is when non-essential shops can reopen as well as hairdressers, gyms, zoos, theme parks and libraries.
Pubs and other hospitality venues will be able to serve customers outside - but rules around social contact remain in place, so Rule of Six or two households.
Step 3, after May 17, allows groups of six to meet inside and up to 30 people outside.
Overnight stays with friends and family elsewhere in the country will be allowed for the first time and pubs and restaurants will be able to serve people indoors.
Step 4, after June 21, will be when all the government hopes all the legal limits on social contact can be removed - though some social distancing could stay in place, like wearing masks.
