In September, the weather along the South West Coast Path showcases a wide variety of conditions. Early in the month, temperatures range from mild highs in the upper teens to cooler lows around 10°C. Rainfall is sporadic, with days of overcast skies and intermittent showers often breaking for sunny patches. As the month progresses, the temperature maintains a similar range but rain showers become more frequent, especially in exposed coastal regions. Occasional heavier showers punctuate otherwise dull or partly cloudy days, with the constant movement of weather fronts making each day unique.
Starting in Minehead, the weather is characterized by heavy rain mixed with periods of overcast skies. Early days alternate between cloudy skies and brief sunny intervals, with temperatures fluctuating between 15°C and 21°C. Moving towards Porlock Weir, the temperature remains similar, though showers become more pronounced, including brief spells of moderate rain. By the time Lynton is reached, rain showers are frequent, with some days experiencing over 10mm.
As the trail progresses into North Devon, from Combe Martin to Hartland Quay, the weather continues to see mixtures of sunny spells and light rain showers. Temperatures remain mild, ranging from mid-teens during the day and dropping slightly at night. Towards the end of the section, heavier showers are more common around coastal points like Westward Ho and Clovelly, with some days receiving up to 19mm of rain.
In Cornwall, starting in Bude and extending to Portwrinkle, the weather mirrors the earlier sections in alternating between showers and sunshine. Temperatures are slightly warmer, especially in areas like Newquay and Perranporth, where highs can reach 20°C. However, heavy rainfall events occur, particularly near the coast, causing some locations like Sennen Cove to experience significant precipitation.
In South Devon, from Plymouth to Babbacombe, expect dynamic weather with moderate to heavy rain showers interspersed with sunny intervals. Temperatures vary largely depending on location and exposure, but generally remain between mid-teens. Frequent rainfall contributes to the lush landscapes found throughout this part of the trail.
In East Devon, spanning Exmouth to Seaton, the weather comprises of cloudy days with brief rain showers. The temperature maintains early to mid-teens regularly with sporadic appearance of the sun. Moderate and heavy rain showers are impactful, especially near coastal towns like Sidmouth and Seaton, often driven by moist air flowing inland from the sea.
Finally, entering Dorset from Seatown and ending at South Haven Point, the weather often exhibits patterns of cloud cover with scattered showers. As one approaches the coastline, the impact of oceanic weather patterns is more pronounced, featuring pockets of intense rainfall. Even so, when the skies clear, they offer enriching views over the dramatic cliffs and seascapes, with temperatures fluctuating throughout.
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