Weather in Cornwall

climate and weather in cornwallCornwall is one of England's favourite summer holiday destinations, especially as it boasts the highest average annual temperatures in the country and no extreme fluctuations between seasons. With a temperate oceanic climate, the average annual temperature in Cornwall hovers around 11°C (52°F). The weather is warm in the summer and cool in the winter and there are few, if any, extreme temperatures during the year, with rainfall throughout the year. 

Spring temperatures in Cornwall can go from 5°C early in the season and rise to 14°C (57°F) just before summer, and there is rarely more than 65mm (2.6in) of rain in spring. Spring is the perfect time to explore the natural biodiversity in this beautiful region of England. 

Summer in England can be stiflingly hot, but Cornwall is by far the most comfortable area in the country. July and August are peak tourist season, and while there may be an occasional thunderstorm, it rarely rains more than 65mm (2.6in) during summer in Cornwall.

Autumn in England is unpredictable and climatic conditions can change at a moment's notice, especially early in the season when the average high is 17°C (63°F) - temperatures are likely to drop to about 5°C right before winter. Autumn is also the wettest season in Cornwall and average monthly rainfall fluctuates from 100mm to 120mm (3.9in to 4.7in). 

Cornwall is typically a degree or two warmer than the rest of England during winter, with maximum temperatures of 9°C (48°F) and minimum temperatures of 4°C (39°F). Rainfall in Cornwall in winter ranges from 100mm to 120mm (3.9in to 4.7in) per month and because of the moderate temperatures, snow or ice are rare. 

Cornwall is often referred to as the surfing capital of England and the Gulf Stream keeps sea temperatures warm year round. Cornwall's rich biodiversity makes it gold mine for natural beauty and outdoor activity.

 

When is the best time to go to Cornwall?

Summer is an ideal season to visit Cornwall because of the warm temperatures, and it never gets as stiflingly hot as the rest of England can – Cornwall is a safe haven during national heat waves. But accommodation and other prices in Cornwall will be high because it is peak tourist season in England. To avoid these inflated prices and still benefit from the warm Cornish weather, early autumn and late spring are the best times to visit Cornwall, especially for those looking to explore the countryside. 

 

What to pack for a holiday in Cornwall

Pack a variety of clothing for a holiday in Cornwall because it can experience four seasons in a single day. Take a selection of T-shirts and light jerseys, shorts, skirts and dresses during the summer, as well as beachwear, a hat and sunscreen. Pack some breathable walking shoes or trainers and always have a raincoat no matter what time of year. 

Warm clothing is essential for autumn, spring and especially winter travellers. Pack thicker jerseys and a coat, long-sleeved shirts and jeans or trousers, long dresses and skirts, and a thermal or two for an unusually cold day. Raincoats are essential and umbrellas are useful, but only when the wind is not strong. Walking shoes will be fine for winter, but pack sturdier footwear for hiking adventures and a camera to capture the natural beauty of the region.

 

Climate and weather in Cornwall in January

Average temperature in Cornwall in January: 4°C to 8°C (39°F to 46°F)
Average sea temperature in Cornwall in January: 10°C (50°F)
Average rainfall in Cornwall in January: 110mm (4.3in)
Note: January is the rainy season in Cornwall and occasional flooding does occur.
Events: New Year’s Eve celebrations and fireworks will be going on throughout the region, and Christmas lights might still be on display.
 

Climate and weather in Cornwall in February

Average temperature in Cornwall in February: 3°C to 8°C (37°F to 46°F)
Average sea temperature in Cornwall in February: 9°C (48°F)
Average rainfall in Cornwall in February: 90mm (3.5in)
Note: Temperatures in Cornwall are low during February and there is plenty of rain. Stay indoors and enjoy a warm fire, a hot meal and a good book. Alternatively, venture to uncrowded museums and local attractions.
 

Climate and weather in Cornwall in March

Average temperature in Cornwall in March: 5°C to 9°C (41°F to 48°F)
Average sea temperature in Cornwall in March: 9°C (48°F)
Average rainfall in Cornwall in March: 100mm (3.9in)
Note: March may be classified as spring, but prepare for chilly weather and high rainfall during this month.
 

Climate and weather in Cornwall in April

Average temperature in Cornwall in April: 5°C to 11°C (41°F to 52°F)
Average sea temperature in Cornwall in April: 10°C (50°F)
Average rainfall in Cornwall in April: 60mm (2.4in)
Note: April weather in Cornwall is cool and quite wet, so be sure prepare for an unpredictable month of rain and sunshine.   
Events: Porthleven’s annual food festival guarantees to provide great local food and lively entertainment.
 

Climate and weather in Cornwall in May

Average temperature in Cornwall in May: 8°C to 14°C (46°F to 57°F)
Average sea temperature in Cornwall in May: 11°C (52°F)
Average rainfall in Cornwall in May: 60mm (2.4in)
Note: The weather in Cornwall is unpredictable in May, but temperatures will be warming up. Carry an umbrella or raincoat for the inevitable spring downpour.
Events: The Fowey Festival attracts thousands of international and local travellers each year to a celebration of words and music.
 

Climate and weather in Cornwall in June

Average temperature in Cornwall in June: 11°C to 16°C (52°F to 61°F)
Average sea temperature in Cornwall in June: 13°C (55°F)
Average rainfall in Cornwall in June: 70mm (2.8in)
Note: June is the start of summer in Cornwall and temperatures are pleasantly warm at this time of year.
Events: The Looe Food Festival in late June boasts a string of celebrity chefs on its line-up - ideal for foodies.
 

Climate and weather in Cornwall in July

Average temperature in Cornwall in July: 13°C to 19°C (55°F to 66°F)
Average sea temperature in Cornwall in July: 16°C (61°F)
Average rainfall in Cornwall in July: 60mm (2.4in)
Note: Temperature in Cornwall during July are high, and it is the perfect time to go to the beach, or explore the Cornish countryside.
Events: The Tropical Pressure festival in Porthtowan celebrates the musical and culinary cultures of Africa, the Caribbean and Latin America.  
 

Climate and weather in Cornwall in August

Average temperature in Cornwall in August: 13°C to 19°C (55°F to 66°F)
Average sea temperature in Cornwall in August: 17°C (63°F)
Average rainfall in Cornwall in August: 60mm (2.4in)
Note: Temperatures in Cornwall in August are high and the sea is warm, so don’t forget to pack a hat and sunscreen for days on the beach.
Events: The Boardmaster’s Festival in Newquay hosts top local and international surfers at its annual surfing contest. The Falmouth Tall Ships international sailing festival held in Falmouth in late August is one of the biggest of its kind in western Europe.
 

Climate and weather in Cornwall in September

Average temperature in Cornwall in September: 12°C to 17°C (54°F to 63°F)
Average sea temperature in Cornwall in September: 16°C (61°F)
Average rainfall in Cornwall in September: 70mm (2.8in)
Note: The weather in Cornwall during September is very pleasant, but wet because it is autumn. Airfare and accommodation prices aren't as high as in peak summer tourist season.
Events: The Great Cornish Food Festival is one of the largest events in the region, with cooking demonstrations, craft beer and street style food stalls set up in Truro (sometimes the location can change). The Looe Music Festival takes place in Looe during mid September and combines popular international artists with the best local talent.
 

Climate and weather in Cornwall in October

Average temperature in Cornwall in October: 10°C to 14°C (50°F to 57°F)
Average sea temperature in Cornwall in October: 14°C (57°F)
Average rainfall in Cornwall in October: 110mm (4.3in)
Note: October in Cornwall is rainy season, so prepare for wet and cool weather.
Events: The Falmouth Oyster Festival celebrates the traditional seafood and culinary diversity in Falmouth.
 

Climate and weather in Cornwall in November

Average temperature in Cornwall in November: 7°C to 11°C (45°F to 52°F)
Average sea temperature in Cornwall in November: 12°C (54°F)
Average rainfall in Cornwall in November: 100mm (3.9in)
Note: November is one of the coldest and wettest months of the year in Cornwall.
Events: The International Cornwall Film Festival, hosted in Newquay, exhibits the best of local and foreign cinema, and hosts seminars for film enthusiasts. The Looe Literary Festival celebrates the best literary talent in Britain.
 

Climate and weather in Cornwall in December

Average temperature in Cornwall in December: 6°C to 9°C (43°F to 48°F)
Average sea temperature in Cornwall in December: 11°C (52°F)
Average rainfall in Cornwall in December: 120mm (4.7in)
Note: Temperatures in Cornwall in December are low and there is high rainfall in this month.
Events: Buy some of the region’s best foods at the Padstow Christmas Festival, beneath the Christmas light displays.