Based on Environment Agency monitoring data. Last updated 16 July 2026.
According to TapWater.uk's analysis, 16 PFAS compounds have been detected across 7 sampling points in Bournemouth. The highest recorded level is 0.016 µg/L (N-MeFOSA).
Compounds detected
16
Sampling points
7
Highest level
0.016 µg/L
Latest date
16 July 2026
<0.01 µg/L
0.01–0.075 µg/L
>0.075 µg/L
PFAS levels over time
Monthly aggregate PFAS levels. Dashed line shows WHO guideline (0.1 µg/L).
Compounds detected
N-MeFOSA
0.0160 µg/L
PFPeA
0.0140 µg/L
PFOS (linear)
0.0120 µg/L
6:2 FTSA
0.0110 µg/L
PFBS
0.0092 µg/L
PFHxA
0.0090 µg/L
PFBA
0.0074 µg/L
PFHxS (linear)
0.0074 µg/L
PFOS (branched)
0.0069 µg/L
PFHpA
0.0047 µg/L
PFOA
0.0045 µg/L
PFOS
0.0027 µg/L
PFOS (total)
0.0017 µg/L
FBSA
0.0013 µg/L
PFHxS (branched)
0.0012 µg/L
PFPeS
0.0009 µg/L
Dashed line = WHO guideline (0.1 µg/L). Bar shows maximum detected level.
Sampling points
Environment Agency monitoring locations near Bournemouth.
LocationMax levelCompoundCoordinates
LITTLESEA LAKE
0.003 µg/LPFOA50.6594, -1.9622
HAMPSHIRE AVON AT KNAPP MILL
0.016 µg/LN-MeFOSA50.7435, -1.7822
RIVER STOUR AT IFORD BRIDGE
0.011 µg/L6:2 FTSA50.7412, -1.8066
RIVER ALLEN AT HIGH HALL (FITCHES BRDGE)
0.002 µg/LPFBS50.8224, -1.9920
GORE ROAD NURSERY, NEW MILTON (A), DOUBLE H NURSERIES
0.014 µg/LPFPeA50.7514, -1.6769
RSN0429 MUDE AT HARROW FARM
0.003 µg/LPFBA50.7751, -1.7234
BISTERNE GARDENS, RINGWOOD WELL
0.001 µg/LPFHxS (linear)50.8047, -1.7857
What this means for your tap water
Important context: the Environment Agency data shown here is from environmental monitoring of rivers and groundwater — not treated tap water. PFAS detected in source water does not necessarily mean the same levels are present in the water that comes out of your tap.
Water treatment processes can reduce PFAS concentrations, though the effectiveness varies by treatment method and PFAS compound. UK water companies are not required to publish PFAS removal rates. If you are concerned, a reverse osmosis filter offers the most reliable protection at home.
How to reduce PFAS exposure
A reverse osmosis system is the most effective way to remove PFAS from your drinking water at home, eliminating over 95% of forever chemicals.
Removes >95% of PFAS compounds
Waterdrop G3P600 Reverse Osmosis
Reverse Osmosis · NSF/ANSI 58, NSF/ANSI 372
Why it fits
Removes 12+ contaminants including PFAS and fluoride
Tankless design saves under-sink space
Smart TDS monitoring panel shows real-time water quality
Trade-offs
Professional installation recommended — plumbing required
Get a detailed water quality report for your exact area in Bournemouth.
Frequently asked questions
Has PFAS been found in Bournemouth water?
Yes. Environment Agency monitoring has detected 16 PFAS compounds across 7 sampling points in water sources near Bournemouth. The highest recorded level is 0.016 µg/L (N-MeFOSA). Note that this is environmental monitoring of rivers and groundwater, not treated tap water.
What PFAS compounds were found in Bournemouth?
The following PFAS compounds have been detected near Bournemouth: PFOS, PFOS (branched), PFOS (linear), FBSA, PFHpA, PFHxA, PFPeA, PFBS, 6:2 FTSA, PFBA, PFOA, PFHxS (linear), PFHxS (branched), PFPeS, N-MeFOSA, PFOS (total). N-MeFOSA was recorded at the highest level of 0.016 µg/L.
Is Bournemouth tap water safe to drink despite PFAS?
Bournemouth tap water meets all current UK legal standards. However, the UK has no legal limit for PFAS in drinking water. The Environment Agency data shows PFAS in source water (rivers and groundwater), not in treated tap water. Water treatment may reduce PFAS levels, but the extent of removal is not publicly reported.
How can I remove PFAS from my water in Bournemouth?
The most effective method is a reverse osmosis (RO) filtration system, which removes over 95% of PFAS compounds. Standard carbon filters and jug filters like BRITA do not effectively remove PFAS. An under-sink RO system is recommended for Bournemouth households concerned about PFAS exposure.