Bristol (Bristol Weather) in South West England is known for its oceanic climate, unpredictable rainfall, and relatively mild year-round temperatures. Whether you’re planning a visit or just want an insider’s look at the city’s ever-changing skies, understanding the weather in Bristol can significantly enhance your experience.
Bristol Weather: Geographic and Climatic Background
Bristol is positioned on the River Avon, near the Severn Estuary, with an elevation averaging 26 meters above sea level. This coastal proximity is key to its climate, which is mild but wet and largely shaped by Atlantic air flows. Bristol’s climate classification is “oceanic,” meaning it experiences temperate, moist conditions year-round, with no extreme heat or cold. Winds, humidity, and rainfall are all influenced by weather systems moving in from the Atlantic Ocean.
Typical Weather Patterns by Season
- Winter (December–February): Winters are not harsh but are often dull and damp. Average temperatures in January are around 5°C (41°F). Frost is common, and snow is rare but possible. Rainfall is steady, contributing to high humidity and cloudy periods.
- Spring (March–May): Temperatures slowly rise, ranging from around 8°C to 15°C. Showers are frequent, but sunny spells increase, and gardens begin to bloom. April is known for unpredictable showers, whereas May is often the best time to visit.
- Summer (June–August): Summers are mild, with average highs of 20–22°C and cooler evenings. Days above 25°C are rare. Rain can still occur, so packing a light raincoat is a necessity.
- Autumn (September–November): Early autumn is pleasant, but by October, temperatures slide to an average of 15°C during the day and 9°C at night. Rainfall picks up again as the city heads into the greyer months.
Current Weather Overview (November 2025)
For November 2025, Bristol is experiencing classic late autumn conditions:
- Daytime highs average around 9°C, dipping to 5°C at night.
- Frequent cloud cover with rain bands moving in from the Atlantic.
- Occasional sunny intervals, but overall, the weather is unsettled with blustery winds expected later in the week.
- Humidity is elevated, hovering between 80% and 90%, contributing to a chillier feel.
Hourly and daily forecasts indicate a continued pattern of intermittent rain showers, cloudy skies, and northwest winds at 13mph. Milder, wetter, and more changeable weather is forecast as we move into December, with wind speeds likely picking up over weekends.
Monthly and Annual Climate Averages
- Temperature: The annual average temperature is about 10.4°C (50.8°F).
- Precipitation: Average rainfall is approximately 820–824mm per year, spread over 140–170 days of measurable rain.
- Humidity: Averages 80–90% in the humid months, with brief dips in the summer.
- Wind: Moderately breezy, with winter months experiencing stronger gusts.
Historical records show that even during cold periods, Bristol’s temperatures rarely drop below -6°C, thanks to the moderating influence of the ocean. Extreme weather events, like heavy snowfall or heatwaves, are rare but not impossible.
Weather Extremes and Notable Events
Bristol rarely faces weather extremes, but there are occasional noteworthy events:
- Record High: The highest temperature ever recorded in Bristol was 36°C, while the coldest dipped below -14°C in rare circumstances.
- Heavy Rain Events: Prolonged rainfall leading to localised flooding is more common than snow emergencies.
- Wind: Strong westerly winds are a signature from late autumn through early spring, occasionally causing minor disruptions.
Air Quality and Environmental Factors
Air quality in Bristol is generally good and often below the “unhealthy” threshold for most of the year. However, increased rain and humidity can exacerbate pollen and mould levels, particularly in spring and autumn. Traffic and urban density sometimes lead to localised increases in particulate matter, especially during stagnant weather.
Weather and Daily Life
Due to the city’s “four seasons in a day” reputation:
- Locals and visitors are wise to carry umbrellas and waterproofs.
- Outdoor activities, from walking the Avon Gorge to attending Bristol’s renowned festivals, are subject to swift changes in the weather.
- Public transport and roads are engineered to handle frequent rain, but occasional storms may cause short-term travel delays.
Climate Change and Recent Trends
Bristol is not immune to climate change. The past two decades have shown a measurable warming trend. In 2024, the mean temperature was 12.4°C, well above the historical average. Rainfall patterns are becoming less predictable, with more frequent episodes of intense precipitation. City authorities are investing in sustainable drainage and urban greening to manage rainfall and temperature spikes.
The 10-Day Weather Forecast: Late November to Early December 2025
For the next 10 days, expect:
- Continuing mix of clouds and showers, temperatures between 8–13°C.
- Occasional brighter intervals but dominated by Atlantic weather bringing unsettled skies.
- Wind gusts may reach up to 43 km/h, especially towards the end of November.
- No snow is expected, and freezing temperatures are unlikely for now.
Here’s a sample breakdown:
| Date | Day Temp | Night Temp | Rain Chance | Wind |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nov 24 | 9°C | 5°C | 10% | 13 mph N |
| Nov 25 | 11°C | 6°C | 40% | 14 mph SW |
| Nov 26 | 12°C | 7°C | 60% | 17 mph W |
| Nov 27 | 10°C | 6°C | 70% | 11 mph SW |
| Nov 28 | 10°C | 5°C | 80% | 13 mph NW |
| Dec 1–3 | 8–10°C | 4–6°C | 60–80% | Variable |
Weather Outlook for Residents and Visitors
- Clothing: Layering is key. Waterproofs and warm accessories (hats, scarves) are recommended, especially for outdoor events.
- Activities: Check daily forecasts before planning open-air activities. Many museums and attractions offer shelter during wetter spells.
- Travel: Monitor rail and road alerts in case of heavy downpours or flooding.