Lake Buttermere — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Lake Buttermere, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Lake Buttermere today is 11.6°C.
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
Table of Daily Sea Temperature Data
| Date | Current | Average | Forecast |
|---|---|---|---|
| OCT 7 | 12.5°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 8 | 12.3°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 9 | 12.1°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 10 | 11.5°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 11 | 11.9°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 12 | 11.8°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 13 | 11.8°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 14 | 11.1°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 15 | 13.0°C | 11.7°C | |
| OCT 16 | 13.0°C | 11.7°C | |
| OCT 17 | 13.0°C | 11.8°C | |
| OCT 18 | 13.0°C | 11.9°C | |
| OCT 19 | 13.0°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 20 | 13.0°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 21 | 13.0°C | 12.1°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 | 1°C | 5°C | 8°C |
| February | 1°C | 5°C | 8°C |
| March | 3°C | 7°C | 10°C |
| April | 6°C | 10°C | 13°C |
| May | 10°C | 15°C | 21°C |
| June | 13°C | 20°C | 26°C |
| July | 16°C | 22°C | 27°C |
| August | 15°C | 21°C | 27°C |
| September | 13°C | 19°C | 24°C |
| October | 9°C | 13°C | 17°C |
| November | 5°C | 9°C | 12°C |
| December | 0°C | 4°C | 8°C |
Lake Buttermere: Water Temperature by Location
Lake Buttermere: Weather Forecast
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
Location & Local Information
#Cumbria
Buttermere is a small, upland lake in the Lake District whose water is typically cool year-round. Seasonal surface temperatures commonly range from about 4–7 °C (39–45 °F) in winter to 12–18 °C (54–64 °F) in summer, with spring typically 6–12 °C (43–54 °F) and autumn 8–12 °C (46–54 °F). These figures vary with weather, depth and wind-driven mixing, so even on warm days the deeper water remains cold. The lake attracts wild swimmers and open-water enthusiasts because public access is unrestricted, but swimming is informal rather than supervised. Cold-water shock, sudden weather changes and the absence of lifeguards mean swimming is allowed but should be approached cautiously: many wear wetsuits, swim with companions and keep to sheltered areas.
Beyond swimming, the Buttermere area offers classic fells and walks such as the ridges around Haystacks and Fleetwith Pike, views over neighbouring Crummock Water, and a compact village with cafes and small accommodations. The nearby Honister Pass and historic slate mine provide accessible alternatives for non-swimmers or visitors seeking shorter outings.