Shaw's Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Shaw's Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Shaw's Lake today is 11.8°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 | 13.1°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 8 | 12.9°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 9 | 12.3°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 10 | 12.2°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 11 | 12.5°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 12 | 11.9°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 13 | 11.6°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 14 | 12.1°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 15 | 13.0°C | 11.9°C | |
| OCT 16 | 13.0°C | 11.9°C | |
| OCT 17 | 13.0°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 18 | 13.0°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 19 | 13.0°C | 12.1°C | |
| OCT 20 | 13.0°C | 12.2°C | |
| OCT 21 | 13.0°C | 12.2°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 | 16°C | 22°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 |
Shaw's Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Shaw's Lake: Weather Forecast
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
Location & Local Information
Shaw’s Lake is a small freshwater lake near the town of Downpatrick in County Down, surrounded by gentle countryside and quiet walking paths. The lake’s temperature follows a typical Northern Irish pattern, remaining cool for most of the year due to the mild, damp climate. In winter, surface temperatures often fall to around 4–6 °C (39–43 °F), rising gradually through spring as the days lengthen. During summer, the water may reach 15–17 °C (59–63 °F) at its warmest, providing crisp but bearable conditions for short swims. By early autumn, temperatures begin to decline again toward 10 °C (50 °F), reflecting the changing season and cooler nights.
Swimming in Shaw’s Lake is permitted, but it is recommended mainly for experienced open-water swimmers who are comfortable in naturally cold and occasionally deep waters. The lake’s calm surface makes it inviting on warmer days, though wetsuits are advisable for prolonged swimming outside midsummer. The setting is peaceful and well-suited for picnics, fishing, and birdwatching rather than organized recreation. Visitors often combine a stop at Shaw’s Lake with exploring nearby attractions such as Downpatrick’s historic centre, the St. Patrick’s Heritage Trail, and the scenic shores of Strangford Lough, which lies only a short drive to the east.