Honestly, if you're planning a trip to the ancient royal capital of Wessex, you've probably checked a generic app and seen a bunch of gray cloud icons. But the weather in Somerton Somerset is a bit of a trickster. It doesn't just "rain." It settles in. Or it surprises you with a microclimate that feels nothing like the nearby Levels.
Right now, as of January 17, 2026, it's a crisp nighttime in Somerton. The temperature is sitting at exactly 41°F, but with a 7 mph wind coming out of the southeast, it actually feels like 37°F. Humidity is maxed out at 98%. Basically, it's that damp, British chill that gets right into your bones if you aren't wearing the right wool layers.
The Reality of the Somerton Microclimate
Most people assume the whole of Somerset is a soggy marshland. Not quite. Somerton sits on a patch of Lias limestone, slightly elevated above the surrounding moors. This matters. While the Somerset Levels might be drowning in fog or floodwater, Somerton often stays just a bit drier, though "dry" is a relative term in the West Country.
The Numbers You Actually Need
Don't trust the broad "South West" forecasts. They're too vague. According to the current Google Weather data for Somerton:
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- Today (Saturday, Jan 17): We're looking at a high of 50°F and a low of 40°F. Expect partly sunny skies during the day, turning cloudy at night.
- Tomorrow (Sunday, Jan 18): It cools down slightly. High of 46°F, low of 41°F, with light rain likely (35% chance during the day).
- Monday (Monday, Jan 19): Back up to 50°F. It'll be cloudy, but that humidity stays high—around 95%.
Wind is a factor here too. By Wednesday, January 21, the wind speed is expected to jump to 22 mph from the southeast. If you're walking near the Cow Square or heading out toward the viaduct, that’s going to bite.
Why the "Wettest Month" is a Lie
If you look at historical climate data, October is technically the wettest month, averaging about 3.18 inches of rain. But talk to anyone who lives here and they'll tell you January and February feel far wetter. Why? Because the evaporation rate is non-existent. In July, which is the hottest month with an average high of 71°F, a rain shower disappears in twenty minutes. In January, the ground stays saturated.
Somerset Intelligence reports show that while the average annual rainfall is around 725mm, we've seen massive swings. Back in 2012, the region got nearly double the usual rain.
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What to Pack (The Non-Tourist Version)
You need layers. Not just a "big coat."
- The Base: Something moisture-wicking. Even when it’s 40°F, if you’re hiking up to the Hurcot woods, you’ll sweat.
- The Shell: A proper Gore-Tex or high-denier waterproof. An umbrella is useless when those 20 mph southeasterly winds kick in.
- The Feet: Forget trainers. The mud in the local fields is like clay. It will eat your shoes. Wear boots.
Seasonal Shifts: When to Actually Visit
Most travel guides scream "July and August!" Sure, it's warmer. July averages 71°F. But it's also crowded and the "changeable" nature of English weather means you could still spend your week in a pub avoiding a downpour.
May and June are the real winners. You get about 10.9 to 12.6 hours of clear or sunny skies. The daylight is massive—peaking at 16.6 hours on June 21st. There’s nothing quite like a pint outside the White Hart at 9:00 PM when the sun is only just starting to think about setting.
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On the flip side, December is the gloomiest. It's overcast about 74% of the time. If you’re coming for the "atmospheric" winter vibe, just be prepared for a lot of gray.
Actionable Insights for Your Visit
If you are heading to Somerton this week, pay attention to the humidity and wind chill. Even though 50°F sounds mild for January, the high humidity (90%+) makes it feel significantly colder than a dry cold.
Next Steps for Your Trip:
- Check the Southeast Wind: If the wind is coming from the southeast at over 15 mph (like it will on Tuesday and Wednesday), avoid high-ground walks.
- Waterproof Your Gear: With a 65% chance of rain forecast for next Wednesday and Friday, today is the day to re-wax your jacket.
- Time Your Walks: Aim for the "partly sunny" windows today. Tomorrow is likely to be a washout with light rain persisting through the night.
- Footwear Choice: Stick to the paved paths around the Market Cross if you aren't wearing wellies; the surrounding trails are currently high-moisture zones.