Camborne, located in Cornwall, UK (postcode TR14), experiences a temperate maritime climate heavily influenced by the Atlantic Ocean. This results in mild winters, cool summers, and rainfall spread throughout the year. The Met Office station at Camborne (50.218°N, 5.327°W) provides long-term averages that help residents, gardeners, and tourists plan activities. This article gives a month-by-month overview of rainfall, temperature, and daylight hours, along with practical advice for living in or visiting Camborne.
Climate Summary for Camborne
Camborne's climate is classified as Cfb (Oceanic) under the Köppen system. The Atlantic Drift (extension of the Gulf Stream) keeps winter temperatures above freezing, while summer highs rarely exceed 25°C. Annual rainfall averages between 900 mm and 1100 mm, with October through January being the wettest. Sunshine hours are modest, averaging about 1,500 hours per year, but daylight length varies significantly from 8 hours in December to over 16 hours in June.
Month-by-Month Breakdown
January
Temperature: Average high 8°C (46°F), low 3°C (37°F). Frost occurs on about 5-7 nights. Rainfall: 100-120 mm, with 15-18 rain days. Daylight: 8 hours 20 minutes at start, increasing to 9 hours by month's end. January is the darkest month, and gales are common. Local shops like B&M on Trelowarren Street sell umbrellas and waterproofs.
February
Temperature: High 8°C (47°F), low 3°C (38°F). Slightly milder than January. Rainfall: 80-100 mm, 13-15 rain days. Daylight: 9 hours 10 minutes to 10 hours 50 minutes. Still cool and wet, but daffodils begin appearing in local gardens.
March
Temperature: High 10°C (50°F), low 4°C (40°F). Rainfall: 70-90 mm, 12-14 rain days. Daylight: 11 hours to 12 hours 50 minutes. Spring arrives slowly; sea temperatures around 9°C. Good time for coastal walks but still pack a raincoat.
April
Temperature: High 12°C (54°F), low 5°C (42°F). Rainfall: 60-80 mm, 10-12 rain days. Daylight: 13 hours to 14 hours 40 minutes. Drier and sunnier; average sunshine 5-6 hours/day. Ideal for visiting Camborne's gardens and parks.
May
Temperature: High 15°C (59°F), low 8°C (46°F). Rainfall: 50-70 mm, 9-11 rain days. Daylight: 15 hours to 16 hours 10 minutes. One of the best months; average sunshine 7 hours/day. Sea temperature rises to 12°C. Perfect for outdoor activities like hiking trails near Camborne.
June
Temperature: High 18°C (64°F), low 11°C (52°F). Rainfall: 50-70 mm, 8-10 rain days. Daylight: 16 hours 20 minutes at summer solstice (June 21). Longest days; average sunshine 7-8 hours. Occasional warm spells can push temperatures above 25°C. Local beaches like Gwithian Towans are popular.
July
Temperature: High 19°C (66°F), low 13°C (55°F). Rainfall: 60-80 mm, 8-10 rain days. Daylight: 16 hours to 15 hours 20 minutes. Warmest month; sea temperature peaks at 16°C. Thunderstorms rare but possible. Good for things to do in Camborne in summer.
August
Temperature: High 19°C (66°F), low 13°C (55°F). Rainfall: 70-90 mm, 9-11 rain days. Daylight: 15 hours 20 minutes to 13 hours 40 minutes. Similar to July but slightly wetter. School holidays bring more visitors; book accommodation early.
September
Temperature: High 17°C (63°F), low 11°C (52°F). Rainfall: 70-90 mm, 10-12 rain days. Daylight: 13 hours 40 minutes to 11 hours 50 minutes. Pleasant early autumn; sea still warm (15°C). Good for surfing in Camborne as swells pick up.
October
Temperature: High 14°C (57°F), low 9°C (48°F). Rainfall: 100-120 mm, 14-16 rain days. Daylight: 11 hours 50 minutes to 9 hours 50 minutes. Wet and windy; first frosts possible by month end. Leaves change colour in local woods.
November
Temperature: High 11°C (52°F), low 6°C (43°F). Rainfall: 110-130 mm, 15-17 rain days. Daylight: 9 hours 50 minutes to 8 hours 30 minutes. Dark and damp; average sunshine 2-3 hours/day. Stormy periods common. Check Camborne flood prevention advice if living in low-lying areas.
December
Temperature: High 9°C (48°F), low 4°C (40°F). Rainfall: 110-130 mm, 16-18 rain days. Daylight: 8 hours 20 minutes at winter solstice (Dec 21). Shortest days; minimal sunshine. Christmas lights in town centre; indoor activities recommended.
Annual Averages and Extremes
Camborne's annual average temperature is about 11°C (52°F). The highest recorded temperature is around 30°C (86°F) during the July 2022 heatwave, while the lowest is about -8°C (18°F) in January 1987. Annual rainfall averages 1,050 mm, with 150-170 rain days (≥1 mm). Snow is rare, falling on 3-5 days per year but rarely settling. Wind is a constant feature, with average speeds of 15-20 km/h, gusting higher in winter.
Practical Implications for Residents and Visitors
For gardening, the growing season runs from March to November. The RHS recommends planting hardy perennials like hebes and hydrangeas that tolerate damp. Local garden centres such as Trevenson Garden Centre on the A3047 stock suitable varieties. For outdoor events, May to September offer the best weather. The Camborne Show in July (at the Royal Cornwall Showground) often sees dry spells but have a backup plan. For winter, invest in a good waterproof jacket and sturdy boots — Millets on Commercial Street sells affordable options. Daylight hours affect energy bills; using a smart meter from British Gas can help track usage.
How Camborne Compares to Other UK Locations
Compared to London, Camborne is about 2°C cooler in summer and 1°C milder in winter, but receives 300 mm more rain annually. It is sunnier than Manchester (1,500 vs 1,400 hours) but less sunny than Eastbourne (1,800 hours). Its maritime influence means less temperature variation than inland towns like Exeter. For more comparisons, see Cornwall climate vs UK.
Conclusion
Camborne's climate is mild but wet, with distinct seasonal changes in daylight. Understanding these patterns helps in planning everything from daily commutes to holiday activities. Use the month-by-month data above to make informed decisions, and always check the Met Office forecast for up-to-date warnings.