Durham — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Durham, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Durham today is 15.2°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
Table of Daily Sea Temperature Data
| Date | Current | Average | Forecast |
|---|---|---|---|
| AUG 26 | 16.0°C | 18.0°C | |
| AUG 27 | 16.0°C | 18.0°C | |
| AUG 28 | 16.0°C | 18.0°C | |
| AUG 29 | 16.0°C | 18.0°C | |
| AUG 30 | 16.1°C | 18.0°C | |
| AUG 31 | 16.1°C | 18.0°C | |
| SEP 1 | 15.1°C | 16.0°C | |
| SEP 2 | 15.2°C | 16.0°C | |
| SEP 3 | 16.0°C | 15.2°C | |
| SEP 4 | 16.0°C | 15.3°C | |
| SEP 5 | 16.0°C | 15.3°C | |
| SEP 6 | 16.0°C | 15.4°C | |
| SEP 7 | 16.0°C | 15.4°C | |
| SEP 8 | 16.0°C | 15.4°C | |
| SEP 9 | 16.0°C | 15.5°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 0°C | 4°C | 7°C |
| February | 0°C | 4°C | 7°C |
| March | 2°C | 6°C | 9°C |
| April | 5°C | 9°C | 11°C |
| May | 9°C | 13°C | 18°C |
| June | 12°C | 17°C | 22°C |
| July | 14°C | 18°C | 23°C |
| August | 14°C | 18°C | 23°C |
| September | 11°C | 16°C | 20°C |
| October | 8°C | 11°C | 14°C |
| November | 4°C | 8°C | 10°C |
| December | 0°C | 4°C | 8°C |
Durham: Weather Forecast
September 3
September 4
September 5
September 6
September 7
September 8
Location & Local Information
Durham, a historic city in northeast England, is beautifully framed by the River Wear, which loops around its cathedral and castle before flowing north toward Chester-le-Street and Sunderland. The water temperature here follows the cool but temperate northern climate, varying gradually with the seasons. In winter, the Wear usually ranges from 3 to 5°C (37–41°F), staying cold and brisk from upland rainfall. By spring, it warms to around 8–10°C (46–50°F). During midsummer—especially in July and August—the river can reach 15–17°C (59–63°F) in calm, sunlit stretches, providing some of the most pleasant swimming conditions in the region. As autumn arrives, the temperature drops again to about 9–11°C (48–52°F), keeping a refreshing quality throughout most of the year.
Swimming in the River Wear at Durham is allowed and has become more common as water quality has improved. The river’s slow bends and sheltered banks make it inviting during summer, though swimmers should take care with depth and current changes. Many people also enjoy kayaking and paddleboarding along the same scenic stretch. The riverside paths offer striking views of Durham Cathedral and Castle, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, while nearby attractions include botanical gardens, woodland trails, and the surrounding Durham Dales.