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Colchester — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast

This page provides information on the current water temperature in Colchester, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.

Abberton Reservoir, United Kingdom
Abberton Reservoir, United Kingdom © By Terryjoyce, CC BY-SA 3.0

Current Water Temperature

13.3°C
Today
13.4°C
Yesterday
15.1°C
A Week Ago
Get instant access to real-time water temperatures for this and all other locations with our iOS and Android apps.

Water Temperature in Colchester today is 13.3°C.

Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast

⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 54°F (12°C) to 60°F (15°C). The water is significantly warmer, and swimming becomes possible for most people. However, caution may still be required for prolonged stays in the water, as extended exposure can cause discomfort. This is a suitable temperature range for short swims and for those accustomed to cooler water. For more comfortable swimming, it is recommended to use proper gear. 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

From September 13 to October 14

Table of Daily Sea Temperature Data

Date Current Average Forecast
OCT 715.1°C15.0°C
OCT 815.3°C15.0°C
OCT 914.6°C15.0°C
OCT 1014.5°C15.0°C
OCT 1114.6°C15.0°C
OCT 1214.1°C15.0°C
OCT 1313.4°C15.0°C
OCT 1413.3°C15.0°C
OCT 1515.0°C13.4°C
OCT 1615.0°C13.5°C
OCT 1715.0°C13.6°C
OCT 1815.0°C13.6°C
OCT 1915.0°C13.7°C
OCT 2015.0°C13.8°C
OCT 2115.0°C13.9°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.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month Min Avg Max
January3°C7°C10°C
February4°C8°C11°C
March6°C10°C13°C
April9°C13°C16°C
May11°C16°C21°C
June15°C21°C27°C
July18°C23°C28°C
August17°C22°C27°C
September15°C20°C25°C
October11°C15°C18°C
November5°C9°C13°C
December4°C8°C11°C

Colchester: Weather Forecast

October 15

° / °
overcast
rain: 17% | wind:

October 16

° / °
slight rain
rain: 31% | wind:

October 17

° / °
overcast
rain: 20% | wind:

October 18

° / °
light drizzle
rain: 12% | wind:

Location & Local Information

Colchester, located in Essex in the southeast of England, lies near the River Colne and several small lakes and reservoirs that reflect the region’s mild coastal climate. The water in these bodies tends to remain cool but relatively stable throughout the year. In winter, average temperatures are around 4–6 °C (39–43 °F), rising in spring to about 8–10 °C (46–50 °F). During the summer, water temperatures can reach 16–18 °C (61–64 °F) in sheltered or shallow areas, though larger bodies remain slightly cooler. By autumn, the temperature usually drops again toward 10–12 °C (50–54 °F), maintaining a moderate but refreshing feel typical of southeastern England’s waterways.

Swimming in and around Colchester is allowed in certain managed locations but should be approached with care in natural rivers or ponds. The River Colne and nearby lakes can be suitable for experienced wild swimmers during warm weather, though water quality and currents vary. Wetsuits are recommended outside midsummer for comfort. The area is well known for its scenic walks and boating opportunities along the riverbanks. Nearby attractions include Castle Park, High Woods Country Park, and the Colne Estuary Nature Reserve, while the coastal beaches of Mersea Island offer additional spots for open-water swimming and recreation.

Nearby Locations

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current water temperature in Colchester?
Water Temperature in Colchester today is 13.3°C.
What is the water temperature in Colchester during the summer months?
The water temperature in Colchester in summer fluctuates in the range of 15°C - 28°C.
Is it possible to swim in any bodies of water in Colchester (United Kingdom), and what are the available options for doing so?
Yes — you can swim in Colchester using indoor public pools and the university sports centre, or in nearby coastal and estuarial waters around Mersea Island and the River Colne either at designated bathing beaches or by joining organised open‑water swim groups, but you should always check local signage, tides, water quality and safety guidance before entering the water.