Can You Drink Tap Water in London?

Last updated: October 2025

Introduction: Is Tap Water in London Safe to Drink?

London’s tap water meets strict UK Drinking Water Inspectorate (DWI) and EU standards, meaning it is technically potable water — safe for daily consumption.

However, growing concern about PFAS chemicals, microplastics, and tap water bacteria has made many Londoners wonder: “Is it really the best water to drink?”

According to the DWI, over 99.9% of tap water samples in England meet required safety standards. Yet, trace levels of substances like chlorine, lead, and microplastics can still be found — often affecting what water tastes like and its long-term health profile.

If you’d like to enjoy pure, mineralized water directly from your tap, explore Bluewater’s Kitchen Station 1™ — a premium home water filtration system that removes up to 99.7% of contaminants.

(Drinking Water Inspectorate – Water Quality Standards)

Where Does London’s Tap Water Come From?

About 70% of London’s tap water is sourced from the River Thames and Lea Valley reservoirs, while the remaining 30% comes from underground aquifers and boreholes.

This water undergoes advanced treatment processes such as filtration, chlorination, and ozonation before reaching your tap.

However, aging pipes and urban runoff can reintroduce bacteria and chemical residues after treatment.
That’s why many households choose to install a water filter for home, providing an extra layer of protection and better taste.

(Thames Water – Water Quality)

PFAS in London Tap Water: The Hidden Chemical Concern

PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are synthetic chemicals used in non-stick cookware, packaging, and industrial coatings.
They are called “forever chemicals” because they don’t easily break down and can accumulate in bacterial cells, animals, and humans.

Health Risks of PFAS Exposure

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), prolonged exposure may cause:

Hormonal and immune disruption
Increased cholesterol levels
Higher cancer risks (kidney, testicular)
Developmental effects in children

Even though PFAS levels in UK tap water are low, studies show these substances persist in the environment for decades.

Bluewater’s Kitchen Station 1™ uses SuperiorOsmosis™ technology, an advanced reverse osmosis water filter, to remove up to 99.7% of PFAS and other harmful chemicals.

(EPA – Reducing PFAS in Drinking Water with Treatment Technologies)
(London City Hall – Forever Chemicals Q&A)

Microplastics in Tap Water: Tiny Particles, Big Problem

Microplastics, plastic fragments smaller than 5 mm, have been found in both tap water and bottled water worldwide — including in London.

These particles often come from:

Synthetic clothing fibers
Cosmetic microbeads
Degraded plastic packaging
Urban and industrial waste

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) warns that microplastics can carry toxic chemicals and bacteria, which may disrupt digestion and hormone balance.

Installing a home water filtration system with reverse osmosis and carbon filtration helps remove these particles before they enter your drinking supply.

(RSC – PFAS in UK Waters: Presence, Detection, and Remediation)
(EFSA – PFAS & Microplastics)

Tap Water Bacteria and Microorganisms

Even though London’s water is disinfected, bacteria in water can occasionally appear — especially in older pipes or stagnant plumbing.

Common microorganisms include:

E. coli and Pseudomonas — potentially harmful
Lactobacillus — harmless, sometimes beneficial

While most bacterial cells are neutral, some can cause bacterial diseases or minor water infections.

According to the NHS, boiling water removes bacteria but not PFAS, lead, or microplastics.
That’s why households increasingly use reverse osmosis water filters or whole-house water filtration systems for comprehensive protection.

(NHS - Water, drinks and hydration)

Is London Tap Water Safe to Drink in 2025?

Yes — London tap water is safe to drink and meets UK and EU law standards.
It qualifies as potable water and undergoes daily testing for chemicals, metals, and microorganisms.

However, “safe” doesn’t always mean pure or pleasant-tasting.
Hard minerals, chlorine, and trace substances can affect both flavour and feel.
Using a home water filtration system improves both taste and safety.

(Drinking Water Inspectorate – Compliance with Standards)

How to Improve the Taste and Safety of Tap Water

1. Install a Home Water Filtration System

A water filter for home or whole house water filter removes chlorine, PFAS, and bacteria.
Systems like Bluewater's Kitchen Station 1™ combine reverse osmosis with remineralization for great-tasting, pure water.

2. Maintain Your Plumbing

Regularly clean and replace faucet aerators, and flush your pipes to reduce bacterial buildup.

3. Test Water Quality Periodically

Water quality can vary by borough. A quick potable water test can reveal chlorine, bacteria, or heavy metals.

Make Your London Tap Water Drinkable

Bluewater's Kitchen Station 1™ is designed for those who want the best water to drink — straight from the tap.

Key Benefits:

Removes Harmful Contaminants: Filters PFAS, microplastics, and tap water bacteria.
Adds Essential Minerals: Provides pure water with calcium and magnesium.
Saves Money and Plastic: Replaces bottled beverages with clean, eco-friendly filtered water.

Explore the Kitchen Station 1™ — a compact yet powerful water purification system trusted across the UK.

FAQs — Frequently Asked Questions

Is tap water safe to drink in London?

Yes, it meets strict safety standards, but home filtration ensures even better quality and taste.

Can you drink softened water?

Yes, but it’s not ideal for drinking due to high sodium levels — use filtered water instead.

Does tap water have bacteria?

A small amount of bacteria in water is normal. Most are harmless, but filtration provides peace of mind.

Is tap water safe to drink UK-wide?

Yes — UK tap water is among the best in the world, though filtration enhances safety.

What does water taste like in London?

London water tastes “hard” due to minerals. A water filter system for home reduces limescale and improves flavor.

Is tap water good for you?

It’s healthy and potable, but removing PFAS, chemicals, and microplastics makes it even better.

References

Conclusion: London Tap Water — Safe, But Can Be Better

London’s tap water is safe to drink, but not perfect.
Trace PFAS, microplastics, and bacteria can linger, impacting purity and taste.

For the cleanest, pure water, invest in a home water filtration system like the Bluewater's Kitchen Station 1™.
It’s an eco-friendly, cost-effective solution for Londoners who want the best water to drink — every day.

Author & Expertise

Written by Bluewater Group
Bluewater is a world leader in sustainable water purification. Our patented SuperiorOsmosis™ technology removes up to 99.7% of contaminants, including PFAS, microplastics, and chlorine, delivering filtered water that’s healthy, safe, and delicious.

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