Gouthwaite Reservoir — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Gouthwaite Reservoir, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Gouthwaite Reservoir today is 18.1°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 65°F (18°C) to 68°F (20°C). This is already quite warm water, which is ideal for most people. Swimming becomes comfortable, and prolonged stays in the water do not cause discomfort. This temperature is perfect for family trips and for those who prefer warmer water. It is also comfortable for water sports such as surfing or swimming. 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 6 | 18.7°C | 22.0°C | |
| AUG 7 | 18.7°C | 22.0°C | |
| AUG 8 | 18.7°C | 22.0°C | |
| AUG 9 | 18.7°C | 22.0°C | |
| AUG 10 | 18.1°C | 22.0°C | |
| AUG 11 | 18.1°C | 22.0°C | |
| AUG 12 | 18.1°C | 22.0°C | |
| AUG 13 | 18.1°C | 22.0°C | |
| AUG 14 | 22.0°C | 18.3°C | |
| AUG 15 | 22.0°C | 18.5°C | |
| AUG 16 | 22.0°C | 18.7°C | |
| AUG 17 | 22.0°C | 18.9°C | |
| AUG 18 | 22.0°C | 19.1°C | |
| AUG 19 | 22.0°C | 19.3°C | |
| AUG 20 | 22.0°C | 19.5°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 | 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 | 9°C | 15°C | 21°C |
| June | 12°C | 19°C | 26°C |
| July | 16°C | 22°C | 27°C |
| August | 17°C | 22°C | 27°C |
| September | 13°C | 19°C | 24°C |
| October | 9°C | 13°C | 17°C |
| November | 4°C | 8°C | 12°C |
| December | 0°C | 4°C | 8°C |
Gouthwaite Reservoir: Water Temperature by Location
Gouthwaite Reservoir: Weather Forecast
August 14
August 15
August 16
August 17
August 18
August 19
Location & Local Information
#North Yorkshire
Gouthwaite Reservoir, set in Nidderdale in North Yorkshire, is a shallow upland reservoir whose water stays relatively cool year‑round. Typical seasonal surface temperatures range from about 1–5 °C (34–41 °F) in winter, 4–12 °C (39–54 °F) in spring, 12–18 °C (54–64 °F) in summer and 7–12 °C (45–54 °F) in autumn. Because it is relatively exposed and receives inflows from moorland, temperatures can feel colder than lowland lakes, and thermoclines and sudden changes in depth can create cold pockets even on warm days.
There is no formal bathing area at Gouthwaite and Yorkshire Water generally discourages unsupervised swimming. Restrictions reflect safety concerns — cold water shock, hidden currents, fluctuating water levels and the reservoir’s role in water supply and bird conservation — rather than a simple prohibition for leisure. Visitors commonly enjoy walking, birdwatching and cycling around the reservoir, and nearby attractions include the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Brimham Rocks and the market towns and villages of the surrounding Dales.