Dowdeswell Reservoir — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Dowdeswell Reservoir, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Dowdeswell Reservoir today is 12.7°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
Table of Daily Sea Temperature Data
| Date | Current | Average | Forecast |
|---|---|---|---|
| OCT 7 | 13.2°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 8 | 13.5°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 9 | 13.5°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 10 | 13.7°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 11 | 13.5°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 12 | 13.0°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 13 | 12.5°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 14 | 12.8°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 15 | 15.0°C | 12.8°C | |
| OCT 16 | 15.0°C | 12.9°C | |
| OCT 17 | 15.0°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 18 | 15.0°C | 13.2°C | |
| OCT 19 | 15.0°C | 13.3°C | |
| OCT 20 | 15.0°C | 13.4°C | |
| OCT 21 | 15.0°C | 13.5°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 | 3°C | 7°C | 10°C |
| February | 4°C | 8°C | 11°C |
| March | 6°C | 10°C | 13°C |
| April | 7°C | 12°C | 17°C |
| May | 9°C | 16°C | 22°C |
| June | 11°C | 20°C | 28°C |
| July | 15°C | 22°C | 29°C |
| August | 18°C | 23°C | 28°C |
| September | 16°C | 21°C | 26°C |
| October | 11°C | 15°C | 19°C |
| November | 5°C | 9°C | 13°C |
| December | 4°C | 8°C | 11°C |
Dowdeswell Reservoir: Water Temperature by Location
Dowdeswell Reservoir: Weather Forecast
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
Location & Local Information
#Gloucestershire
Dowdeswell Reservoir, set below the Cotswold escarpment near Cheltenham, is a relatively deep, sheltered body of water whose temperature varies with the seasons. In winter the surface often falls to around 2–6 °C (36–43 °F), while spring warms it to roughly 6–12 °C (43–54 °F). By summer the top layers can reach 14–20 °C (57–68 °F) on sunny, calm days, though deeper water remains considerably colder. In autumn temperatures typically decline to about 8–14 °C (46–57 °F). These figures are approximate; actual temperatures change with weather, depth and wind exposure.
Swimming in Dowdeswell is generally not permitted or is actively discouraged: the reservoir is a managed water body with steep banks, variable depths and cold conditions that pose safety and health risks, and there may also be water-quality and operational reasons for restrictions. Visitors are advised to follow on-site signage and local guidance. The surrounding area is popular for walking and wildlife watching, with Dowdeswell Woods, the Cotswold Way and nearby towns such as Cheltenham and Winchcombe offering additional attractions.