'Don't swim' at 12 of 14 river bathing sites, as more locations announced

Across England, nearly all official inland river bathing sites now display warnings advising against swimming due to concerns over water safety. This development coincides with the government’s announcement of six newly designated river bathing locations that will undergo water quality monitoring for the first time during the upcoming summer season. Notably, this expansion includes a site on the River Thames in London.

During a recent investigation, the BBC visited all 14 inland river bathing sites previously tested by the Environment Agency. These tests focused on contamination from bacteria associated with human and animal waste. The results indicated that only the River Stour in Suffolk and the River Thames in Oxfordshire had water quality deemed acceptable. In contrast, the remaining 12 sites were classified as having “poor” water quality, prompting official advice for the public to avoid swimming.

The total number of bathing sites subject to routine monitoring now exceeds 460, with the majority located along the coast. However, the number of inland sites on rivers and lakes is growing, with water quality results published on a government website. To qualify as a designated bathing site, a location must satisfy certain criteria, including regular use by bathers and availability of toilet facilities. Coastal sites generally enjoy better water quality, whereas inland rivers often suffer from pollution caused by sewage discharge and agricultural runoff.

Campaigners argue that having a river officially designated as a bathing site—and thus subject to regular monitoring—effectively compels water companies to reduce sewage pollution. One activist described the situation as “bonkers,” criticizing the paradox of needing to encourage swimming in polluted rivers to trigger clean-up efforts. Water Minister Emma Hardy expressed optimism, stating, “The introduction of these new bathing sites means better monitoring of our waterways, a boost for local tourism, and greater confidence for local

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