The proposals include new rivers and coastal waters that are already popular with swimmers, including the first ever designated bathing spot on the River Thames in London, which marks a vast transformation in water quality across the river.

The new sites, following applications submitted in 2025, will see the nation’s total bathing spots increase to 464 and comes as the Government focuses on delivering improved water quality for swimmers across the country.

Water Minister Emma Hardy said:

“Rivers and beaches are at the heart of so many communities – where people come together, families make memories and swimmers of all ages feel the benefits of being outdoors safely.

“Our plans to designate new bathing water sites show how we are backing local ambition and recognising the pride in places that matter most to people.

“This comes alongside this government’s generational reform of the water system, that will cut water pollution and clean up our rivers lakes and seas for good.”

Claire Robertson, Catchment Manager at environmental charity Thames21, commented:

“This is fantastic news not only for the many swimmers who enjoy these sites, but also for the wider community of river users and the wildlife that depend on a healthy river. Healthy rivers benefit everyone, and these designations mark important steps towards improving water quality and protecting precious stretches of the Thames.

“The efforts of Thames21, its volunteers and partners made the proposal for Pangbourne Meadows possible. We are incredibly grateful to the dedicated citizen scientists for their hard work and commitment - we simply couldn’t have achieved it without them. We also extend our sincere thanks to all the individuals, councils and organisations who supported our application.”

Following the consultation, the government will consider responses before confirming which sites will be designated ahead of the 2026 bathing water season.

Last year, 93% of England’s bathing waters met acceptable standards for swimming. The government’s new Bathing Water Regulation reforms came into force on 21 November 2025, designed to change the ‘one size fits all’ approach and more closely reflect how people use our beaches, lakes and rivers.

Designated Bathing Waters are regularly tested for water quality throughout the bathing season (15 May - 30 September).

The sites under consultation are:

Little Shore, Amble, Northumberland, a crescent of sand between the River Coquet and the North Sea popular with locals

Newton and Noss Creeks, Devon, a narrow tidal inlet just off the River Yealm in the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

Canvey Island Foreshore, Essex, a unique family favourite sandy beach.

Sandgate Granville Parade Beach, Kent, shingle beach enjoyed by swimmers, and kayakers.

Queen Elizabeth Gardens Salisbury, Wiltshire, one of Salisbury’s most cherished parks opened in the early 1960s to commemorate the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II

East Beach at West Bay, Bridport, Dorset, filming location for the iconic 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 scenic tidal river, flowing through the heart of the town

River Swale in Richmond, 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, which could become London’s first river bathing site on the Thames

New Brighton Beach (East), Merseyside, a sandy seaside resort at the mouth of the Mersey Estuary

River Dee at Sandy Lane, Chester, Cheshire, a popular spot for families and water sports