Can you drink tap water in the United Kingdom?

In the United Kingdom, the tap water is safe to drink and complies with international health standards.

The United Kingdom’s water is regulated by national and EU-level standards. Whether you’re in England, Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland, tap water is safe to drink.

Quick Overview

Tap Water Concern:Our Advice
Tap Water Drinkable?✅ Yes, it’s safe to drink
Common Risks:Minimal — high quality standards
Brush Teeth?✅ Yes, no concerns
Wash Fruits/Vegetables?✅ Yes, safe to use tap water
Use Ice in Drinks?✅ Yes, generally safe in restaurants
Safe to Shower?✅ Yes
Filter Bottle Needed?❌ No, not necessary

Verified through CDC and WHO data, along with reports from municipal water services.

Worried About Tap Water? Consider Using a Filter Bottle

Not sure about the water where you’re going? We’ve researched the most reliable filter bottles for travel—safe, effective, and used by thousands of travelers around the world. They offer protection from bacteria, help reduce your environmental footprint, and save you from overpaying for bottled water, so you’ll find our top recommendations just below.

Water Filter Bottle – LifeStraw

Rating

★★★★★
A full view of a translucent gray LifeStraw Go water bottle standing upright on a smooth, light surface. The black lid features an integrated carry handle, making the bottle easy to clip onto a backpack or hold while traveling. Through the clear body, the internal filtration system is visible, including the long white membrane microfilter designed to remove bacteria, parasites, microplastics, and sediment. The LifeStraw logo appears vertically along the front of the bottle in white. The clean, minimal background keeps the focus on the durable, BPA-free bottle—made from 50% recycled plastic—and reinforces its purpose as a reliable, travel-ready filter bottle for safe, great-tasting water during trips, outdoor activities, and everyday use.
A disassembled LifeStraw Go water bottle laid out on a light-colored surface, showing all the key components of the two-stage filtration system. The translucent gray bottle stands in the background with the LifeStraw logo visible. In front of it, the long white membrane microfilter lies horizontally, displaying its vented design used to remove bacteria, parasites, microplastics, and sediment. Next to it are the smaller parts: the activated carbon filter pod that reduces chlorine and odors, the white connector piece that attaches the filters inside the bottle, and the black screw-on lid with its integrated drinking spout. The layout highlights how each part fits together, reinforcing the bottle’s functionality, easy maintenance, and purpose as a durable, BPA-free, travel-ready filtration system made from recycled plastic.
A straight-on view of a translucent gray LifeStraw Go water bottle standing upright on a light surface. The LifeStraw logo appears vertically in white along the front of the bottle. Through the clear plastic you can see the internal two-stage filtration system, including the long cylindrical microfilter that removes bacteria, parasites, and microplastics, as well as the lower section where the activated carbon filter fits to improve taste by reducing chlorine and odors. The black lid with the built-in sip spout sits securely on top. The clean, minimal background draws attention to the durable, BPA-free design made from 50% recycled plastic—highlighting the bottle’s purpose as a reliable, eco-friendly filter bottle for travel, everyday hydration, and safe drinking water on the go.
A close-up photo of a translucent gray LifeStraw Go water bottle showing the “MAX 0.65L” fill line printed in white on the side. Small droplets of water cling to the surface, suggesting the bottle was just rinsed or recently used. Through the clear plastic, the internal filtration system is visible—the upper cartridge that houses the two-stage filter combining a membrane microfilter for bacteria, parasites, microplastics, sediment, and cloudiness, and an activated carbon filter to reduce chlorine, odors, and aftertaste. The top portion of the lid with the built-in drinking spout appears at the edge of the frame. The image highlights the durable, BPA-free construction made from 50% recycled plastic. It supports product information about the LifeStraw Go series, which provides safer, better-tasting water for travel, outdoor use, and everyday hydration, while also contributing one year of clean drinking water to a child in need with every purchase.
Protection: Filters bacteria, parasites, microplastics, and dirt from unsafe water
Travel-Ready: Safe to use in countries with non-drinkable tap water
Better Taste: Carbon filter reduces chlorine, odors, and chemical flavor
Eco-Friendly: Replaces up to 8,000 single-use plastic bottles
Long-Lasting: Membrane filter lasts up to 1,000 gallons
Safe Materials: BPA-free, durable, and leak-proof design
Budget-Friendly: Cuts daily costs on bottled water
Convenient: Great for airports, hikes, hotels, and remote areas
Check Price on Amazon

Health Risks for Travelers

While the local tap water is considered safe by health authorities, every traveler’s digestive system reacts differently. What’s perfectly normal for residents may Even in countries with high water quality standards, the environment around you can influence your experience. Water from the tap may be safe to drink overall, but local conditions—like building age or plumbing—can still play a role.

Low-risk considerations for travelers:

  • Rusty or outdated pipes in older accommodations
  • Water that’s perfectly clean at the source but affected by local delivery systems
  • Ice cubes or rinsed produce may be handled differently in casual eateries vs. hotels
  • High mineral levels might cause temporary bloating or unfamiliar taste
  • Sensitive travelers often opt for a filter bottle as a low-effort safety net

For most visitors, these risks are negligible, but awareness helps avoid unnecessary discomfort.

If you experience persistent symptoms while traveling in the United Kingdom, consult a local doctor or pharmacist. In many tourist areas, English-speaking care is available.

More About Tap Water in the United Kingdom

In the United Kingdom, tap water is usually served for free in pubs and restaurants, although some upscale places may encourage bottled water instead. Many Brits use water filter pitchers at home to reduce chlorine taste or soften the water—especially in London and the southeast.

Water quality varies widely by region. In the south and east, it’s typically hard due to calcium and magnesium, while in Scotland and Wales, the water is softer and sourced from lakes and mountains. Water treatment includes chlorine and sometimes UV light.

In London, river water from the Thames and Lea is extensively treated before reaching your tap. Older buildings may still have lead pipes, so people often let the water run briefly. The UK government offers an online postcode check to help residents and travelers review local water quality data.

FAQs About Tap Water in the United Kingdom

Is it safe to brush your teeth with tap water?

Brushing your teeth with tap water here is totally fine—locals and travelers do it every day.

Can I use tap water to wash my face?

Washing your face with tap water in the United Kingdom is totally normal—locals and tourists do it all the time.

Is it safe to use ice in drinks?

Ice is not a concern in the United Kingdom; it’s made from the same safe water you drink.

Can I shower safely with tap water?

There’s no risk in showering with tap water—it’s fully treated.

If you’re picky about water quality—or just want to keep your hair from drying out on the road—a portable shower filter is a smart move. They’re super easy to use, as long as you can access the shower connection. Built-in setups won’t work. Here’s the top-rated shower filter travelers trust. See the current price here.

Can I wash fruits and vegetables with tap water?

Yes, feel confident using tap water for cleaning fruits and vegetables.

Is bottled water expensive in the United Kingdom?

Bottled water is easy to find, though most travelers drink from the tap here.

The United Kingdom is commonly visited with Ireland, France, or Belgium. If your trip spans the Channel, consider checking water quality at each stop.

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