Discover Britain’s largest spiders that roam the UK’s landscapes and homes, from the damp undergrowth of gardens and ditches to the shadowy corners of buildings

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Published: Thursday, 29 August 2024 at 15:40 PM

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Britain is home to a surprising array of impressive spiders, some of which rival the size of a small mouse. These arachnids can be found in various habitats across the country, from the damp corners of gardens and ditches to the hidden crevices of our homes.

• British spider guide – and why there are so many around
• Meet Britain’s tarantula, the purseweb spider

Here’s a closer look at the giants of the spider world in the UK and where you might encounter them.

Britain’s biggest spiders

Tube-web spider

Segestria florentina

Females can grow to a body length of 22mm. Originally from Southern Europe, the tube-web spider is a shy species that lives on walls and fences. Currently, it is found only in southern England, Wales, and near ports. This spider is known for its sharp, painful bite.

Wasp spider

Argiope bruennichi

It’s easy to see how the wasp spider earned its name, with its striped abdomen and legs. As the largest orb-weaver in Britain, females often grow to a body length of 20mm. Originally from mainland Europe, North Africa, and western Asia, this striking spider is now commonly spotted in gardens across southern England.

Nursery-web spider

Pisaura mirabilis

The nursery-web spider is a common resident of woodlands and can sometimes be found in long grass and hedgerows, though it is rare in Scotland. Females can have a leg span of up to 50mm. When their young are about to hatch, they weave nursery webs around their egg sacs for protection – hence their name.

Cardinal spider

Tegenaria parietina

With a body length of up to 20mm and legs reaching up to 60mm, the spotty cardinal spider certainly earns its spot among Britain’s largest spiders. It can be found in and around buildings in southern England.

Legend has it that Cardinal Wolsey, who was said to be terrified of these spiders, inspired the name.

House spider

Tegenaria duellica (formerly gigantea)

Often regarded as the largest arachnid to venture into UK homes, the females can have an impressive leg span of up to 75mm, measured from tip to tip.

Fen raft spider

Dolomedes plantarius