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
Britain's biggest spider is the fen raft spider. With a leg span of up to 70mm and a body length of 23mm, this giant might give you quite a surprise if it dashed across your carpet! Luckily, this uncommon spider is usually found in marshy ditches, canals, and fen ponds rather than in homes.
