Portsmouth Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Portsmouth.
Climate overview of Portsmouth
Portsmouth, Hampshire, United Kingdom, experiences significant temperature variation throughout the year. Summers bring daytime highs of 21°C (70°F) in July, while winters cool to 9°C (48°F) in February.
The city receives around 844 mm (33 in) of rainfall per year. It experiences pleasant summers and cold winters. November is the wettest month and March the driest. July is the sunniest month, averaging 7.4 hours of sunshine per day.
Portsmouth Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Portsmouth - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Portsmouth
Depending on the time of the year, temperatures range from pleasant to chilly in Portsmouth. On average, daytime temperatures range from a pleasant 21°C (70°F) in July to a chilly 9°C (48°F) in February.
Nighttime temperatures range from 15°C (59°F) in July to 4°C (39°F) in February.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Portsmouth
Generally, Portsmouth has a moderate amount of precipitation, averaging 844 mm (33 in) of rainfall annually. The amount of precipitation varies moderately throughout the year. The wettest month, November, sees around 94 mm (3.7 in) of rainfall, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of rain now and then. The driest month, March, still receives a respectable 54 mm (2.1 in) of rainfall. For more details, please visit our Portsmouth Precipitation page.
The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow
The average number of days each month with precipitation
Sunshine Hours in Portsmouth
In Portsmouth, summer days are longer and more sunny, with daily sunshine hours peaking at 7.4 hours in July. As the darker season arrives, the brightness of the sun becomes less. December sees a soft sun for only 1.8 hours per average day.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Daily percentage of sunshine
Humidity in Portsmouth by Month
The city experiences its highest humidity in January, reaching 91%. In April, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 73%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Best Time to Visit Portsmouth
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
- Best overall: July and August
- Warmest weather: July and August
- Most sunshine: May, June and July
- Fewest rainy days: June, July and August
- Seasonal pattern: Pleasant summers and cold winters
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Portsmouth
What is the best time to visit Portsmouth?
July and August typically offer the most optimal weather in Portsmouth. In contrast, January, February and December tend to have less optimal conditions. Portsmouth has pleasant summers and cold winters.
What temperatures can I expect in Portsmouth?
Daytime highs range from 9°C (48°F) in February to 21°C (70°F) in July. Nighttime lows range from 4°C (39°F) to 15°C (59°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.
How much rain does Portsmouth get?
Annual rainfall is around 844 mm (33 in). November is the wettest month with 94 mm (3.7 in), while March is the driest with 54 mm (2.1 in).
How sunny is Portsmouth?
Portsmouth receives around 1,694 hours of sunshine per year. July is the sunniest month with 222 hours, while December is the cloudiest with just 54 hours.
Portsmouth 3-Day Forecast
Portsmouth on the map
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