New Forest Weather, When to Go and Climate Information

(New Forest, Hampshire, England, UK)



Photo of countryside pathway in summerAs is typical with the whole of England, the climate experienced by the New Forest can be somewhat changeable and unpredictable. However, many weeks during the summer do experience long spells of sunshine and fine weather, and so if you choose to holiday in the New Forest at this time of year, you would be extremely unlucky if it was a washout or remained constantly overcast.

Summer temperatures begin to climb sharply as the month of May merges into June, with peaks sometimes exceeding more than 30°C / 86°F, leaving the evenings feeling pleasant and very warm. However, campers should note that there are no swimming pools at Forestry Commission campsites, and so during periodic heatwaves, it can be very hot.


View of woodland pathway in the sunshine

Seasonal Climate Variations / When to Go

Those camping will find that the more refreshing springtime climate can also be a popular time, particularly during the May bank holiday weekends, both at the beginning and end of May. It is not unknown for the summer weather to improve as September arrives, with the New Forest regularly experiencing what has become known as an 'Indian summer'.

The winter climate in the New Forest is fairly mild, although strong winds can make the exposed areas feel considerably colder. Snowfall is not uncommon, but rarely settles before January, when overnight frosts are to be expected during cold spells.

New Forest Weather and Climate Chart (Averages)


Maximum
Minimum

January

7°C / 45°F
3°C / 37°F

February

9°C / 48°F
3°C / 37°F

March

16°C / 61°F
5°C / 41°F

April

18°C / 64°F
7°C / 45°F

May

19°C / 66°F
10°C / 50°F

June

24°C / 75°F
13°C / 55°F

July

25°C / 77°F
14°C / 57°F

August

27°C / 81°F
15°C / 59°F

September

23°C / 73°F
12°C / 54°F

October

15°C / 59°F
7°C / 45°F

November

13°C / 55°F
7°C / 45°F

December

10°C / 50°F
4°C / 39°F