Brighton — Water Temperature, Sea Conditions & Trends
This page provides clear and up-to-date information about water temperature for Brighton (England, United Kingdom). It includes the current water temperature, daily data for the last month presented in a simple chart, and a 7-day forecast. The page also compares today’s value with typical averages for this period, shows usual monthly ranges during the year, and lists nearby beaches with short descriptions. Local weather for the next few days and general details about Brighton help you plan your visit and choose the best time for swimming.
Current Water Temperature
Water temperature in Brighton in the English Channel today is 48°F.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
❌ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 47°F (8°C) to 50°F (10°C). This is still cool water, suitable only for experienced swimmers or those accustomed to cold water. Swimming in such conditions is possible, but not recommended for prolonged periods. Extra caution should be taken during extended exposure, as the cold water can cause heat loss and lead to hypothermia. For added comfort, special clothing 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 Brighton rose over the last 30 days but fell over the last week. Currently, the sea water temperature at this location matches the average for this day in previous years.
According to our forecast, Water temperature in Brighton will be 48°F in the next 7 days. See the table below for daily data for the upcoming week.
Table of Daily Sea Temperature Data
| Date | Current | Average | Forecast |
|---|---|---|---|
| JAN 13 | 46°F | 47°F | |
| JAN 14 | 45°F | 48°F | |
| JAN 15 | 47°F | 47°F | |
| JAN 16 | 47°F | 49°F | |
| JAN 17 | 48°F | 48°F | |
| JAN 18 | 48°F | 49°F | |
| JAN 19 | 48°F | 47°F | |
| JAN 20 | 48°F | 49°F | |
| JAN 21 | 48°F | 49°F | 48°F |
| JAN 22 | 47°F | 48°F | |
| JAN 23 | 47°F | 48°F | |
| JAN 24 | 47°F | 48°F | |
| JAN 25 | 48°F | 48°F | |
| JAN 26 | 50°F | 48°F | |
| JAN 27 | 49°F | 48°F | |
| JAN 28 | 49°F | 48°F |
* Current - Actual water temperature value
** Average - Average water temperature on this day in recent years
*** Forecast - Our water temperature forecast
Actual nearshore water temperatures may fluctuate by several degrees from the reported values, especially following heavy rainfall or extended periods of strong winds. Certain wind patterns can cause colder, deeper waters to rise and replace the sun-warmed surface water, leading to noticeable variations.
Our forecast is based on a proprietary mathematical model that considers real-time water temperature changes, historical trends, key weather patterns, wind strength and direction, and air temperature specific to each region. Additionally, we incorporate data from other resorts to enhance accuracy.
Water temperature data for this location is gathered from various sources, including buoys and satellite sea and ocean surface maps provided by the NOAA agency. We also incorporate data from local authorities in each specific location worldwide to ensure more accurate temperature readings.
Annual Water Temperature Overview by Month
Average Monthly Water Temperature
Annual Water Temperature Trend
Brighton on England’s south coast faces the English Channel and has a typically temperate maritime climate that keeps sea temperatures relatively cool year-round. Winter sea temperatures commonly sit around 7–9°C, rising slowly through spring to roughly 8–13°C by late May. Summer brings the warmest water, with typical highs of 15–19°C in July and August, though brief warm spells can push local readings slightly higher. In autumn the sea cools again, generally falling to about 11–14°C in September and down toward single figures by late November and December. These values are averages and can vary with weather patterns, tides and occasional warm or cold anomalies.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 45°F | 48°F | 54°F |
| February | 41°F | 46°F | 50°F |
| March | 43°F | 47°F | 50°F |
| April | 45°F | 49°F | 54°F |
| May | 46°F | 53°F | 57°F |
| June | 52°F | 57°F | 61°F |
| July | 57°F | 61°F | 64°F |
| August | 59°F | 63°F | 68°F |
| September | 59°F | 64°F | 68°F |
| October | 57°F | 61°F | 64°F |
| November | 52°F | 58°F | 63°F |
| December | 46°F | 53°F | 57°F |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Brighton: Weather Forecast
January 22
January 23
January 24
January 25
Location, Beaches & Local Information
Nearby Beaches & Facilities
Brighton Beach
Hove Beach
Kemp Town Beach
Ovingdon Beach
Southwick Beach
Kingston Beach
Rottingdean Beach
Shoreham-By-Sea Beach
Saltdean Beach
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in Brighton reflects those temperatures and the character of the shoreline: long shingle beaches with concrete groynes and a lively seafront rather than broad sand. In summer months many visitors swim from the pebbles or use the steps and groynes for easier access, while lifeguards are typically on duty at popular stretches during the main season and open-water swimming groups meet regularly. Wetsuits are common outside the warmest weeks and recommended for longer swims or for those sensitive to cold. The area also offers supervised lidos and organised paddle-boarding and kayaking, making it suitable for both casual beach holidays and more active water pursuits, but swimmers should always be mindful of tidal conditions and local safety advice.