Folkestone — Water Temperature, Sea Conditions & Trends
This page provides clear and up-to-date information about water temperature for Folkestone (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 Folkestone help you plan your visit and choose the best time for swimming.
Current Water Temperature
Water temperature in Folkestone in the English Channel today is 18°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 60°F (15°C) to 65°F (18°C). The water is comfortable for most people, making it an ideal range for water sports enthusiasts. The temperature does not cause significant discomfort, and swimming will be pleasant for the majority. However, it's important to remember that prolonged exposure to the water can still lead to cooling, so it's essential to monitor the time spent in the water, especially for children or elderly people.
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 Folkestone today is lower than both a week ago and a month ago. 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 Folkestone will be 16.3°C 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| OCT 5 | 18.8°C | 17.5°C | |
| OCT 6 | 18.7°C | 17.3°C | |
| OCT 7 | 18.7°C | 17.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 18.8°C | 17.0°C | |
| OCT 9 | 18.7°C | 17.0°C | |
| OCT 10 | 18.7°C | 16.8°C | |
| OCT 11 | 18.3°C | 16.8°C | |
| OCT 12 | 18.2°C | 17.0°C | |
| OCT 13 | 17.9°C | 16.0°C | 17.9°C |
| OCT 14 | 15.8°C | 17.7°C | |
| OCT 15 | 15.5°C | 17.4°C | |
| OCT 16 | 15.5°C | 17.2°C | |
| OCT 17 | 15.8°C | 17.0°C | |
| OCT 18 | 15.8°C | 16.8°C | |
| OCT 19 | 15.8°C | 16.5°C | |
| OCT 20 | 15.8°C | 16.3°C |
* 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
Monthly Water Temp Ranges
Annual Water Temperature Trend
Folkestone sits on the English Channel coast of Kent and experiences the cool, temperate sea conditions typical of southeastern England. Seasonal water temperatures generally range from about 6–8 °C in winter (December–February), rising to roughly 8–13 °C in spring (March–May). By summer (June–August) the sea warms to around 15–19 °C at its warmest in July and August, while autumn (September–November) sees a gradual cooling to approximately 11–14 °C. Local conditions are influenced by tidal movement and occasional onshore winds, so short-term variations from these averages are common. Water clarity and quality are monitored, but swimmers should always note that channel waters remain significantly cooler than inland pools and can feel bracing even in summer.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 5°C | 8°C | 11°C |
| February | 5°C | 8°C | 10°C |
| March | 5°C | 8°C | 10°C |
| April | 7°C | 9°C | 12°C |
| May | 8°C | 11°C | 14°C |
| June | 12°C | 14°C | 17°C |
| July | 14°C | 16°C | 18°C |
| August | 16°C | 18°C | 20°C |
| September | 16°C | 18°C | 20°C |
| October | 14°C | 16°C | 18°C |
| November | 10°C | 14°C | 17°C |
| December | 6°C | 11°C | 14°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Folkestone: Weather Forecast
October 14
October 15
October 16
Location, Beaches & Local Information
Nearby Beaches & Facilities
Folkestone Beach
The Warren Beach
Sandgate Beach
Abbot's Cliff Beach
Lydden Spout Beach
Samphire Hoe Beach
Hythe Beach
Shakespeare Beach
Dover Beach
Swimming Conditions
Swimming around Folkestone is popular in warmer months and suited to a range of interests from casual paddling to organised open-water swims. The foreshore is largely shingle with concrete access points and steps leading into the water; sheltered bays and the harbour area provide calmer spots when tides are favorable. Lifeguard cover and seasonal safety signage are typically in place at main bathing areas during summer, but visitors should check local advice before entering the sea. Wetsuits are recommended for much of the year outside the warmest weeks, and cold-water acclimatisation, awareness of currents and entry/exit planning make for safer, more enjoyable beach holidays in Folkestone.