Lake Malham Tarn — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Lake Malham Tarn, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Lake Malham Tarn today is 9.8°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
❌ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 47°F (8°C) to 50°F (10°C). This is still cool water, suitable only for experienced swimmers or those accustomed to cold water. Swimming in such conditions is possible, but not recommended for prolonged periods. Extra caution should be taken during extended exposure, as the cold water can cause heat loss and lead to hypothermia. For added comfort, special clothing 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 | 10.6°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 8 | 10.5°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 9 | 10.7°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 10 | 9.8°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 11 | 10.5°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 12 | 10.0°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 13 | 9.6°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 14 | 9.3°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 15 | 12.0°C | 9.9°C | |
| OCT 16 | 12.0°C | 10.0°C | |
| OCT 17 | 12.0°C | 10.1°C | |
| OCT 18 | 12.0°C | 10.2°C | |
| OCT 19 | 12.0°C | 10.4°C | |
| OCT 20 | 12.0°C | 10.5°C | |
| OCT 21 | 12.0°C | 10.6°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 | 12°C |
| May | 8°C | 15°C | 20°C |
| June | 12°C | 19°C | 25°C |
| July | 15°C | 21°C | 26°C |
| August | 14°C | 21°C | 26°C |
| September | 12°C | 18°C | 23°C |
| October | 8°C | 12°C | 15°C |
| November | 3°C | 8°C | 11°C |
| December | 0°C | 3°C | 7°C |
Lake Malham Tarn: Water Temperature by Location
Lake Malham Tarn: Weather Forecast
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
October 19
Location & Local Information
#North Yorkshire
Malham Tarn is a shallow upland lake, so its water stays relatively cold for most of the year. Typical seasonal surface temperatures run roughly 1–6 °C (34–43 °F) in winter, 4–12 °C (39–54 °F) in spring and autumn, and about 10–18 °C (50–64 °F) in the warmest summer months. These figures vary with recent weather, wind and exact sampling location; deeper or shaded pockets can be noticeably colder and the tarn cools quickly after cold spells. Cold-water risks such as cold shock and rapid heat loss are present outside the warmest weeks.
Swimming is not actively promoted at Malham Tarn and is often discouraged because the lake sits within a protected nature reserve with sensitive ecology and there are no lifeguards, marked swimming areas or facilities. People do swim there occasionally at their own risk, but visitors should check local guidance and respect conservation rules. Nearby attractions include the dramatic Malham Cove limestone amphitheatre, Gordale Scar, Janet’s Foss waterfall and the scenic village and limestone pavements around Malham, all of which make the area popular for walking and sightseeing.