New research shows that England’s swimming waters are five times more polluted than those in the EU. Experts warn the country risks becoming the “dirty man of Europe” again, ranking last for clean bathing water free from harmful bacteria.
The campaign group Best for Britain compared UK and EU water quality standards, finding that across all four UK nations, swimmers are less likely to enjoy “excellent” quality water than in the EU. While 64.2% of England’s bathing waters were rated excellent in 2024, 85.4% of EU waters met this standard.
England also has the highest percentage of “poor” quality bathing waters at 8.4%, compared to 3.4% in Scotland, 1.8% in Wales, and just 1.5% across the EU. Northern Ireland had no poor-rated sites. Among EU countries, Estonia had the worst record at 4.6%, while Albania ranked lowest overall with 22.9% of its waters classified as poor.
A “poor” rating means water contains unsafe levels of bacteria like E. coli and intestinal enterococci, which can cause serious illness. Swimmers are advised to avoid these areas.
Currently, both the UK and EU use the same water quality standards, measuring bacteria levels per 100ml of water. However, EU countries appear more effective at enforcing these standards. The UK’s environmental watchdog has warned the country is likely to miss water cleanliness targets it would have faced as an EU member.
While the EU plans to update its water regulations to address chemical and pharmaceutical contaminants, the UK has no similar plans despite recommendations from government advisors.
Environmental campaigners urge the UK to align with evolving EU water standards to prevent further decline in water quality. The situation highlights ongoing concerns about pollution in popular swimming spots like Lake Windermere, where algal blooms have been reported.Naomi Smith, CEO of Best for Britain (a group advocating for stronger UK-EU relations), said: “People are justifiably horrified by the filthy state of our rivers, lakes, and beaches. Everyone deserves clean water, and no one should risk their health or their children’s health just by swimming or paddling on a nice day.”
She added: “Once again, the EU is leading the way in environmental protection, regulation, and safeguarding public health. This shows our government must properly enforce current standards and keep up as the EU sets higher benchmarks that could help millions – which is exactly what voters want, according to our research.”
Amy Fairman, Campaigns Lead at River Action, said: “This report confirms what swimmers and nature lovers already know – UK waterways are in serious trouble. Profit-driven water companies, intensive farming, and weak regulations have failed both people and wildlife.”
“The independent water commission was correct in calling for Ofwat to be replaced, but only genuine authority, enforcement, and accountability can fix this broken system. It’s shocking that the UK now ranks among Europe’s worst for water quality – unless we take action, we’ll revert to being known as the ‘dirty man of Europe’.”
