The official bathing season begins on Friday, introducing 13 new sites across England, including the first-ever designated bathing spot on the River Thames in London. The season will run until September 30, during which 464 sites along England's coasts, rivers, and lakes will undergo regular water quality testing to inform swimmers, paddlers, and water sports enthusiasts.
First Thames Bathing Site
The site at Ham and Kingston becomes the first on the River Thames in London to achieve designated bathing status. This milestone reflects significant improvements in water quality since the river was declared biologically dead in the 1950s due to pollution. The designation follows a public consultation where 90% of respondents supported the new sites, with record endorsement for the Ham and Kingston location.
Government and Environmental Response
Water Minister Emma Hardy stated: "The introduction of these new bathing sites means better monitoring of our waterways, a boost for local tourism, and greater confidence for local swimmers. Following years of indifference towards bathing waters, this Government has expanded the number of sites as part of our overhaul of the water sector. We're committed to generational reform of our water industry and won't stop until the job is done."
The Government has recently reformed the designated bathing water system to allow more flexible monitoring dates, reflecting actual usage patterns. It has also expanded the legal definition of "bather" to include participants in water sports such as paddleboarding and surfing. Additional funding will improve signage at new sites for clear public access.
Monitoring and Water Quality
Throughout the summer, Environment Agency officers will visit sites weekly to take samples and monitor water quality, publishing results online. The agency continuously assesses pollution levels and collaborates with local communities, farmers, and water companies to enhance water quality. In 2025, 87% of designated bathing sites were rated excellent or good, and 93% met minimum standards, but 7% (32 sites) failed to meet minimum water quality requirements.
Alan Lovell, Environment Agency Chairman, advised: "If you're planning on going open water swimming this summer, I'd advise everyone to get informed – checking water quality and conditions before you go."
List of New Bathing Sites
- Little Shore, Amble, Northumberland – a crescent of sand between the River Coquet and the North Sea
- Newton and Noss Creeks, Devon – a narrow tidal inlet in the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
- Canvey Island Foreshore, Essex – a family-favourite sandy beach
- Sandgate Granville Parade Beach, Kent – a shingle beach used by swimmers and kayakers
- Queen Elizabeth Gardens Salisbury, Wiltshire – River Avon flowing through a green space opened in the early 1960s
- East Beach at West Bay, Bridport, Dorset – filming location for ITV drama Broadchurch
- Pangbourne Meadow, Berkshire – a meadow and river in the area that inspired The Wind In The Willows
- River Fowey in Lostwithiel, Cornwall – a tidal river through the town centre
- River Swale in Richmond, North Yorkshire – with dramatic waterfalls over limestone steps
- Falcon Meadow, Bungay, Suffolk – a riverside community space on the River Waveney
- River Thames at Ham and Kingston, Greater London – London's first river bathing site
- New Brighton Beach (East), Merseyside – a sandy seaside resort at the mouth of the Mersey Estuary
- River Dee at Sandy Lane, Chester, Cheshire – popular for families and water sports
