So, you’re looking at the sky in Cambridge today and wondering if that grey smudge on the horizon means you’ll be soaked by noon. Standard. Honestly, if you’ve spent more than twenty minutes in East Anglia, you know the forecast is basically a polite suggestion rather than a rule.
Weather today in Cambridge England is doing exactly what January does best: keeping us guessing with a mix of biting dampness and that specific, watery sunlight that looks pretty but offers zero warmth.
Today, Wednesday, January 14, 2026, we’re looking at a high of roughly 8°C (46°F) and a low dipping down to 1°C (34°F). It sounds manageable on paper. In reality? The humidity is sitting at 89%, which means that 8 degrees feels a lot more like 4 or 5 when you’re standing on a drafty corner by the Round Church.
The "Real Feel" of Cambridge in January
The thing about Cambridge is the wind. Because the Fens are as flat as a pancake, there’s nothing to stop a cold breeze from whistling straight through the city streets. Today we’ve got a southerly wind moving at about 7 mph. It’s not a gale, but it’s enough to make you regret leaving your scarf at home.
✨ Don't miss: Limelight Hotel Aspen CO: Why This Spot Is Actually Worth the Hype
Early this morning, we saw some light rain—more of a persistent drizzle, really—and the chance of precipitation is hovering around 35% for the daylight hours. It’s that annoying "mizzle" that doesn't quite justify a massive umbrella but will definitely ruin your hair if you’re out in it for more than ten minutes.
What to actually wear (The Local Strategy)
If you’re heading out to the Grafton Centre or walking down King’s Parade, don’t trust the thermometer.
- Waterproof shell: A heavy wool coat looks great for photos, but once it gets damp in this humidity, it stays damp. A lighter, waterproof outer layer over a warm jumper is the pro move.
- Thermal layers: Seriously. A thin Uniqlo-style heat-tech top makes the difference between enjoying a walk by the Cam and shivering uncontrollably.
- The Footwear Trap: The cobblestones around the colleges are slippery when wet. Leave the heels or the slick-bottomed dress shoes in the closet. Wear something with grip.
Why the weather today in Cambridge England matters for your plans
If you were planning on punting, maybe rethink that. Or, at the very least, make sure the punt company provides thick blankets and maybe a thermos of something hot. The river is beautiful in this light, but it’s a damp cold that gets into your bones.
Instead, today is a perfect day for the Fitzwilliam Museum or ducking into one of the many independent bookshops. The cloud cover is staying thick—around 71%—so don't expect a spectacular sunset over the Backs.
A quick look at the light
We’ve only got about 8 hours of daylight right now. The sun rose at 8:02 AM and it’ll be heading back down by 4:18 PM. By 3:30 PM, it’ll feel like twilight. If you're planning on taking photos of the Bridge of Sighs, get them done before lunch while the light is at its "brightest" (and I use that word loosely).
Common Misconceptions about Cambridge Weather
People think it rains constantly in England. Actually, East Anglia is one of the driest regions in the UK. Cambridge gets significantly less rainfall than, say, Manchester or Glasgow. But today proves that "dry" doesn't mean "clear." We get "grey" instead of "wet" quite often.
Another mistake? Thinking the temperature is the whole story.
In some places, 6°C feels crisp. In Cambridge, because we’re so close to sea level and surrounded by water-heavy land, it’s a "wet cold." It clings. You’ve basically got to dress for a temperature 3 degrees lower than what your phone tells you.
Looking ahead to tonight
As we move into the evening, those clouds aren't going anywhere. The temperature will drop toward freezing, and there’s a slightly higher chance of rain (closer to 45%) as we get late into the night. If you’re out for dinner at Midsummer House or just grabbing a pint at The Eagle, keep an eye on the pavement—it might get a bit greasy if that light rain mixes with the evening chill.
Actionable Tips for Today
- Check the Radar: Use a high-resolution rain radar app rather than a generic forecast. In Cambridge, showers often pass through in 15-minute bursts.
- Park and Ride: If you’re visiting, don’t try to navigate the city center in the rain. Use the Madingley Road or Trumpington Park and Ride. The buses are warm, and you won't have to walk as far from your car.
- The "Library Effect": If you get caught in a downpour, the University Library or the local cafes are your best friend. Cambridge has a high density of indoor spaces where you can dry off without feeling like you're loitering.
Basically, today is a standard mid-January day in the city. It's moody, a bit damp, and perfectly atmospheric if you're prepared for it. Just don't forget that extra layer.
To make the most of your time in these conditions, prioritize indoor historical sites like King's College Chapel during the midday hours when the chance of drizzle is highest. Grab a sturdy, wind-resistant umbrella from one of the shops on Sidney Street if you’re caught short, as the gusts in the narrow passages between colleges can easily flip cheaper models inside out. For the most accurate local updates, keep an eye on the rooftop sensors at the University Computer Laboratory, which often provide more precise data for the city center than general regional forecasts.