Bournemouth Weather & Climate

The Bournemouth weather and climate are a large part of the town's appeal. Sheltered by a south-facing position on the Dorset coast, this is one of the mildest, sunniest corners of the UK, and the town regularly sits at the top of the national sunshine tables, one reason holidaymakers have kept coming for generations.

A gentle microclimate

The sea takes the edge off the cold and the bay is shielded from the roughest weather, so winters here are gentler and summers warmer than in most of inland Britain. Frost and snow seldom reach the coast, and through the summer months the town enjoys long, bright days.

Summer temperatures

Between June and August, daytime highs usually reach the low or mid twenties Celsius, and a heatwave can push them higher. On the hottest days a breeze off the water keeps the beaches comfortable.

Sea temperatures

Late July through to September is when the sea is warmest, usually peaking at around 18 to 19°C. That is brisk, but very swimmable once you have acclimatised for a minute or two. Spring and early summer swims are colder still, which is why many people bring a wetsuit.

What to pack

Even at the height of summer, take something warm for the evenings, which cool quickly beside the sea, and never skip the sun cream: the glare off sand and water is stronger than it feels. Spring and autumn call for a waterproof and comfortable shoes for the coast paths, and winter for a warm coat and hat on a brisk beach walk.

Plan around the seasons

For a season-by-season picture, read our guide to the best time to visit, then look at what's on for events during your stay.

Frequently asked questions

What is the weather like in Bournemouth?

Bournemouth's climate is among the mildest and sunniest in the UK, and the town regularly sits at the top of the national sunshine tables. A sheltered, south-facing spot on the Dorset coast gives it gentler winters and warmer summers compared with most of inland Britain.

How warm is the sea in Bournemouth for swimming?

The sea is warmest from late July through to September, usually peaking at around 18 to 19 degrees Celsius. That is brisk rather than warm, but perfectly swimmable once you have acclimatised, and plenty of people wear a wetsuit for the colder spring swims.

What are summer temperatures like in Bournemouth?

Between June and August, temperatures by day usually sit somewhere in the low or middle twenties Celsius, climbing higher during a heatwave. Cooling breezes off the sea keep the sand comfortable even when the thermometer is at its highest.

Does it snow in Bournemouth in winter?

Rarely. The warming effect of the sea and the town's sheltered position keep frost and snow away from the coast most of the time. Winters are mild, but a warm coat and hat still earn their place for a brisk walk on the beach.

What should I pack for the weather in Bournemouth?

Something light to pull on for the cooler evenings beside the water, and sun cream in every season, because the glare off sand and sea is stronger than it feels. Add a waterproof for spring and autumn and a warm coat for winter.

Is Bournemouth windy?

The seafront can be, especially in autumn and winter when Atlantic weather systems come through. The cliffs shelter the beaches more than an open coast would, but an offshore wind is a real hazard for anyone on an inflatable.

Are there lifeguards on Bournemouth beaches?

RNLI lifeguards patrol the central beaches in the summer season only; outside it there is no cover along the bay. Cold water shock is a real risk beyond the warm months, so swim with someone and stay within your depth.