River thames at ham becomes london’s first designated swimming site among 13 new uk bathing waters

A stretch of the River Thames in southwest London has made history by becoming the first officially designated bathing water on the iconic river, joining 12 other locations across the UK selected for new swimming status and water quality monitoring.

The Thames at Ham earned its designation after environmental campaigners presented compelling evidence that thousands of people regularly swim in this section of the river throughout the year. This grassroots effort has transformed a popular but unofficial swimming spot into a formally recognized bathing area that will now receive regular water quality testing and safety oversight.

The designation represents a significant milestone for London’s relationship with its famous waterway, marking a shift toward recognizing the Thames as not just a commercial and transportation corridor, but as a recreational resource for residents. However, the timing creates potential complications for Thames Water, which is currently seeking approval for a water recycling facility in the nearby area.

This development is part of a broader national initiative to expand safe swimming opportunities across the UK, with 13 new sites receiving bathing water status. The designation means these areas will be subject to regular monitoring for bacteria levels and other water quality indicators, providing swimmers with reliable safety information. For the Thames at Ham, this official recognition validates what local swimmers have long known – that this stretch of London’s river can serve as a vital community resource for outdoor recreation and connection with nature.