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 16.8°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 6 | 17.3°C | 21.0°C | |
| AUG 7 | 17.3°C | 21.0°C | |
| AUG 8 | 17.3°C | 21.0°C | |
| AUG 9 | 17.3°C | 21.0°C | |
| AUG 10 | 16.8°C | 21.0°C | |
| AUG 11 | 16.8°C | 21.0°C | |
| AUG 12 | 16.8°C | 21.0°C | |
| AUG 13 | 16.8°C | 21.0°C | |
| AUG 14 | 21.0°C | 17.0°C | |
| AUG 15 | 21.0°C | 17.2°C | |
| AUG 16 | 21.0°C | 17.4°C | |
| AUG 17 | 21.0°C | 17.6°C | |
| AUG 18 | 21.0°C | 17.9°C | |
| AUG 19 | 21.0°C | 18.1°C | |
| AUG 20 | 21.0°C | 18.3°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 | 16°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
August 14
August 15
August 16
August 17
August 18
August 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.