Birling Gap — Water Temperature, Sea Conditions & Trends

Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast

❌ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 50°F (10°C) to 54°F (12°C). The water is slightly warmer, but still cool for most people. Swimming in such conditions is possible, but for most people, the time spent in the water should be limited to avoid hypothermia. Even experienced swimmers may feel discomfort if they stay in the water for too long. To improve comfort and safety, a wetsuit can be used.

It is important to note that these swimming tips and recommendations apply only in good weather. When the air temperature is below 68°F (20°C), and sometimes even below 77°F (25°C), swimming can be unpleasant even with relatively high water temperatures.

Water Temperature Chart Over the Last 30 Days

Water temperature in Birling Gap has risen over the last week and month. Currently, the sea water at this location is slightly warmer than average for this day in previous years.

According to our forecast, Water temperature in Birling Gap will be 9.8°C in the next 7 days. See the table below for daily data for the upcoming week.

Table of Daily Sea Temperature Data

Annual Water Temperature Overview by Month

Monthly Water Temp Ranges

30°C

25°C

20°C

15°C

10°c

5°C

0°C

Annual Water Temperature Trend

Birling Gap sits beneath the chalk cliffs of the East Sussex coast, where the English Channel meets a steep, shingle shoreline. Water temperatures here follow the pattern typical of the southern English coast: winter sea surface temperatures generally range from 7–9°C, spring sees a gradual rise to roughly 8–12°C, summer peak temperatures commonly reach about 15–18°C, and autumn waters usually fall back to around 12–15°C. Conditions can vary day to day with tides, onshore winds and seasonal weather, so short-term surface temperatures may be a degree or two warmer or cooler than seasonal averages.