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English Channel
Cabourg, France © seatemperature.net
English Channel Water Temperature: Current & Historical Data for Coastal Resorts
We find every spot where you can swim and tell you what the water temperature is there today and throughout the year
Current water temperature
45°F
minimal
47°F
average
49°F
maximum
Graph of Water Temperature Changes in the English Channel Over the Last 60 Days
Water temperature in the English Channel by month
| Month | Minimum | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| January | 39°F | 54°F |
| February | 39°F | 54°F |
| March | 41°F | 54°F |
| April | 45°F | 55°F |
| May | 46°F | 61°F |
| June | 52°F | 66°F |
| July | 55°F | 70°F |
| August | 57°F | 72°F |
| September | 55°F | 70°F |
| October | 54°F | 68°F |
| November | 50°F | 63°F |
| December | 43°F | 59°F |
What is known about the English Channel?
Polruan, United Kingdom © Chris ParkerThe English Channel, which separates southern England from northern France, has relatively cool waters year-round due to its northern latitude and connection to the North Atlantic. During the summer months, from June to September, sea temperatures typically range from 59–66°F (15–19°C), with the warmest waters occurring in late August. Coastal areas such as Brighton, Bournemouth, and Normandy offer popular beaches for swimming, although the water remains noticeably colder than in more southern European seas. Many swimmers enjoy the refreshing conditions in summer, but prolonged swimming may require acclimatization.
In winter, from December to March, the English Channel becomes significantly colder, with water temperatures dropping to 46–54°F (8–12°C). These cold conditions make winter swimming challenging, and most swimmers wear wetsuits to stay warm. The Channel is also known for its strong tides and currents, which can make swimming difficult, especially in open water. However, for experienced swimmers and those participating in long-distance challenges, such as Channel crossings, the English Channel offers a unique and rewarding experience, with summer providing the most comfortable conditions for casual swimming.
List of Countries Bordering the English Channel
Popular Resorts of the English Channel with the Warmest Water Today
Popular Resorts on the English Channel Coast
- Margate, United Kingdom
- Plymouth, United Kingdom
- Dover, United Kingdom
- Weymouth, United Kingdom
- Portsmouth, United Kingdom
- Eastbourne, United Kingdom
- Bournemouth, United Kingdom
- Brighton, United Kingdom
- Exmouth, United Kingdom
- Folkestone, United Kingdom
- Torquay, United Kingdom
- Deal, United Kingdom
- Seaford, United Kingdom
- Worthing, United Kingdom
- Hythe, United Kingdom
Mudeford, United Kingdom © Stephen Spence
Nearest Seas and Oceans
Frequently Asked Questions About the English Channel
What is the water temperature in the English Channel right now?
The water temperature in the English Channel today ranges from 45°F (7°C) in Boscombe (United Kingdom) to 50°F (10°C) in Portscatho (United Kingdom).
Is it possible to swim in the English Channel?
Yes, it is possible to swim in the English Channel, although the water is often cold and the crossing is a challenging feat for experienced swimmers.
In which month does the English Channel have the highest and lowest water temperatures?
The highest water temperature in the English Channel occurs in August, reaching 72°F (22°C), while the lowest is in January, dropping to 39°F (4°C).
Is the English Channel colder than the Irish Sea?
No, the English Channel is slightly warmer than the Irish Sea, as its average annual water temperature is 55°F (13°C), while the Irish Sea's is 54°F (12°C).
Which countries are washed by the English Channel?
The English Channel washes United Kingdom, and France.
What are the most popular resorts located on the English Channel?
The most popular beach destinations on the English Channel are Lee-on-the-Solent (United Kingdom), Dover (United Kingdom), Plymouth (United Kingdom), Weymouth (United Kingdom), Brighton (United Kingdom), Margate (United Kingdom), Eastbourne (United Kingdom), Bournemouth (United Kingdom), Portsmouth (United Kingdom), Exmouth (United Kingdom).
Do you have any extended or additional information about the English Channel?
English Channel is the strait between the coast of France and the island of Great Britain. Since 1994, the third longest railway tunnel in the world - Eurotunnel - has been running under the strait.
The climate is temperate maritime, with significant influence from the Atlantic Ocean. Average air temperature: + 4 ° С in winter, + 18 ° С in summer. Average temperature of the surface water layer: January: + 6 ° С; July: + 19 ° С. Average annual rainfall: 830 mm.
Do you have a few more photos of the the English Channel?
Portbail, France © Francois Streiff
Cremyll, United Kingdom © Petr Leicester
Thurlestone, United Kingdom © Pete Crocker