Canterbury Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit

Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Canterbury.

Climate overview of Canterbury

Temperatures in Canterbury, Kent, United Kingdom, vary greatly throughout the year. August is the hottest month at 22°C (72°F), while January is the coldest at 9°C (48°F).

Canterbury sees a moderate amount of rainfall, totalling around 750 mm (30 in) per year. It experiences warm summers and cold winters, creating some seasonal variation. Sunshine peaks in June, when the city sees around 6.8 hours of sunshine per day.

Canterbury Weather by Month

Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Canterbury - and find the best time to visit.

Monthly Temperature in Canterbury

The climate in Canterbury is known for significant temperature differences throughout the year, making the weather dynamic. Average maximum daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 22°C (72°F) in August, the warmest time of the year, to a chilly 9°C (48°F) during cooler months like January.

At night, you can expect temperatures ranging from 15°C (59°F) in August to around 4°C (39°F) during January.

Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.

Temperature ranges by month

Rainfall in Canterbury

Generally, Canterbury receives mid-range precipitation levels, with 750 mm (30 in) annually. Year-round, Canterbury has a balanced climate with minimal variation in precipitation. The difference between the wettest month, October, with 73 mm (2.9 in), and the driest month, March, with 48 mm (1.9 in), is minimal. For more details, please visit our Canterbury Precipitation page.

The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow

Sunshine Hours in Canterbury

Seasonal changes in sunshine hours are quite dramatic in Canterbury. While June receives considerable daily sunshine with up to 6.8 hours, December marks the darkest time of the year, where sunshine is scarce with only 1.7 hours of sunlight per day.

Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.

Monthly hours of sunshine

Data from: Leeds-Kent, the United Kingdom (32 KM, 20 Miles).

Daily hours of sunshine

Data from: Leeds-Kent, the United Kingdom (32 KM, 20 Miles).

Best Time to Visit Canterbury

Conditions in Canterbury are generally most comfortable in July, August and September. They are typically least comfortable in January, February and December.

Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.

  • Best overall: July, August and September
  • Warmest weather: July and August
  • Most sunshine: May, June, July and August
  • Seasonal pattern: Warm summers and cold winters

Frequently asked questions about the climate in Canterbury

What is the best time to visit Canterbury?

July, August and September typically offer the most optimal weather in Canterbury. In contrast, January, February and December tend to have less optimal conditions. Canterbury has warm summers and cold winters.

What temperatures can I expect in Canterbury?

Daytime highs range from 9°C (48°F) in January to 22°C (72°F) in August. Nighttime lows range from 4°C (39°F) to 15°C (59°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.

How much rain does Canterbury get?

Annual rainfall is around 750 mm (30 in). October is the wettest month with 73 mm (2.9 in), while March is the driest with 48 mm (1.9 in).

How sunny is Canterbury?

Canterbury receives around 1,577 hours of sunshine per year. June is the sunniest month with 205 hours, while December is the cloudiest with just 50 hours.

Canterbury 3-Day Forecast

Canterbury 3-Day Forecast

Canterbury on the map

Canterbury is highlighted - select any city to see its climate.

Popular this month

Where to go in July - average daytime high across popular destinations.

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