Bideford Weather: What to Expect During Your Visit

When planning a visit to Bideford, North Devon, it’s essential to be prepared for the local weather.

In this blog post, we’ll provide an overview of Bideford’s climate, the best times to visit, and some tips on what to pack to ensure you have a pleasant and comfortable stay, no matter what the weather brings.

Oh and plan B and plan C for wet things to do when the weather is not ideal (handy if you have kids) and a couple of fo ideas for things to do when the weather is good too!

Bideford Weather
Bideford has a temperate maritime climate with mild winters, cool summers, and moderate rainfall throughout the year.
Pack layered clothing, waterproof gear, comfortable and waterproof footwear, and sun protection.
The best time to visit Bideford largely depends on personal preferences and planned activities.
Plan B and C for rainy days, such as visiting museums, going to the movies, or shopping.

Bideford’s Climate

Bideford enjoys a temperate maritime climate, which means the town experiences mild winters, cool summers, and moderate rainfall throughout the year.

Due to its coastal location, the weather can be quite changeable, with the possibility of sudden rain showers and gusty winds. Fog can roll in and be gone within the hour too, it’s just the way coastal towns like Bideford experience weather on some days.

Temperature

During the summer months, Bideford typically experiences average temperatures ranging from 16°C to 20°C (61°F to 68°F), with July and August being the warmest months.

While the summer weather is generally pleasant, temperatures can occasionally reach highs of around 25°C (77°F) on hotter days (or even hotter if its anything like 2022 was!)

Winter temperatures in Bideford usually hover between 4°C and 8°C (39°F to 46°F), with December and January being the coldest months. Frost and snow are relatively rare, but they can occur during colder spells.

Rainfall

Bideford receives moderate rainfall throughout the year, with October and November generally being the wettest months.

Rain showers can occur at any time, so it’s always a good idea to be prepared with a waterproof jacket or umbrella, even during the summer months. Keeping an eye on the latest weather reports and just keeping an eye on the clouds to see what they are doing can be a simple indicator of what is, or what is not about to come over.

Bideford Weather Forecast

There are numerous sources of weather forecasts for Bideford, we cover the two most common ones below. These sites will provide a 7-day forecast for the area, but as mentioned above, due to Bidefords location, in a valley and by the coast, local conditions can be a little hit and miss.

BBC Weather Bideford

BBC Weather used to be very reliable until they changed their provider in 2018 to MeteoGroup, now it can be a little haphazard and we would suggest using the Met Office website instead for more reliable forecasts for Bideford.

You can view the latest forecast on the BBC weather website for Bideford here.

Met Office Weather Bideford

The Met Office is the United Kingdom’s national weather service, providing accurate and up-to-date weather forecasts, warnings, and climate information for the public, government, and businesses.

You can view the latest forecast on the Met Office weather website for Bideford here.

Best Times to Visit Bideford

The best time to visit Bideford largely depends on your personal preferences and the activities you have planned.

Summer is the most popular time to visit, as the warmer weather is perfect for enjoying beautiful beaches, coastal walks, and outdoor activities.

Spring and autumn can also be pleasant times to visit, with milder temperatures and fewer crowds. These seasons offer excellent opportunities for exploring the beautiful countryside and participating in outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and bird watching.

Note: We have just been learning to surf in April at Westward Ho!

If you don’t mind cooler temperatures and occasional rain, winter can be a charming time to visit Bideford. With fewer tourists, you’ll have the opportunity to experience the town’s beauty and peacefulness without the hustle and bustle of the peak season.

Packing Tips for Bideford Weather

Here are four simple tips for managing the typical British weather we experience here in Bideford at times.

Layered clothing

Given Bideford’s changeable weather, it’s a good idea to pack clothes that can be easily layered. Bring lightweight jackets, sweaters, and long-sleeved shirts to accommodate varying temperatures.

Waterproof gear

A waterproof jacket or poncho and an umbrella are essential items to pack for your visit to Bideford, as rain showers can occur at any time of the year.

Footwear

Comfortable, waterproof shoes or boots are recommended, particularly if you plan on exploring the town’s beautiful coastal paths and countryside.

Sun protection

Despite Bideford’s typically mild weather, the sun can still be strong, particularly during the summer months. Be sure to pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun’s rays.

Things to Do on Wet Weather Days in Bideford

There is no end of things to do if it’s a wet weather day in Bideford, here are a few ideas to get you started. There are many more in our “Things to do” section on this site.

Visit the Burton Art Gallery and Museum

This local treasure features a diverse collection of art, including paintings, ceramics, and sculptures. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions, workshops, and events throughout the year, making it a perfect wet-weather activity.

Explore the Bideford Railway Heritage Centre

Delve into Bideford’s railway history at this fascinating attraction. The heritage centre features a restored railway carriage, historical displays, and interactive exhibits, providing an enjoyable and educational experience for all ages.

Take a trip to the Atlantic Village Outlet Shopping Centre

Located just outside Bideford, this shopping centre offers a great selection of shops and eateries, all under one roof. Spend a rainy day browsing the stores and grabbing a bite to eat.

Enjoy a movie at a local cinema

Catch the latest film releases at a nearby cinema, such as the Scott Cinema in Barnstaple or the Vue Cinema in Westward Ho! Perfect for a wet weather day.

Visit the North Devon Maritime Museum

Located in nearby Appledore, this museum explores the region’s rich maritime history, including shipbuilding, fishing, and trade. A great way to spend a rainy afternoon learning about the local area.

Take the Kids to the Milkyway

This place is amazing if you have kids, we know, we’ve been there many times with ours!

Where to Shop in Bideford

Rain or shine, Bideford has you covered, literally with options to go shopping with.

Bideford Pannier Market

This historic market offers a variety of local produce, arts and crafts, and unique gifts. Open on Tuesdays and Saturdays, the Pannier Market is a great place to shop for local products and support independent traders.

Affinity Devon Outlet Shopping Centre

Another popular shopping destination, Affinity Devon features a mix of high-street and designer brands at discounted prices. With a range of shops, cafes, and restaurants, it’s a great place for a day of retail therapy.

Mill Street

Lined with independent shops and boutiques, Mill Street is a charming area for shopping in Bideford. Discover unique clothing, gifts, and homewares while exploring this lovely street.

Charity Shop Diving

There are several charity shops along Mill Street and out on the quay too. We love a good charity shop dive, you just never know what you’re going to find.

Local Art Galleries

Bideford is home to several art galleries showcasing the work of local artists and craftspeople. Visit galleries such as the White Moose Gallery or the Burton Art Gallery and Museum to browse and buy unique pieces of art and crafts.

In Summary

Bideford’s weather can be changeable, but with the right preparation, you can ensure a comfortable and enjoyable visit. By understanding the local climate and packing accordingly, you’ll be ready to experience all that Bideford has to offer, no matter the weather.

And remember, if it’s a wet day or a stunner, there are loads of things you can do in and around Bideford, see our “Things to do” section on this site.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bideford Weather

Here are the common questions about Bideford weather, answered for you.

Q: What are the average summer temperatures in Bideford?
A: In Bideford, the average summer temperatures typically range from 16°C to 20°C (61°F to 68°F), with occasional highs reaching around 25°C (77°F) on hotter days.

Q: Which months are the coldest in Bideford?
A: December and January are the coldest months in Bideford, with temperatures usually ranging between 4°C and 8°C (39°F to 46°F).

Q: When is the wettest time of the year in Bideford?
A: October and November are generally the wettest months in Bideford, with moderate rainfall throughout the year.

Q: What is Bideford’s climate like?
A: Bideford has a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild winters, cool summers, and moderate rainfall year-round.

Q: Are frost and snow common in Bideford?
A: Frost and snow are relatively rare in Bideford, but they can occur during colder spells in the winter months.

Q: What should I pack for a visit to Bideford?
A: For a visit to Bideford, pack layered clothing, waterproof gear, comfortable and waterproof footwear, and sun protection, such as sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.