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PFAS in Bristol Water

Based on Environment Agency monitoring data. Last updated 10 June 2026.

According to TapWater.uk's analysis, 19 PFAS compounds have been detected across 10 sampling points in Bristol. The highest recorded level is 0.023 µg/L (PFOS).

Compounds detected

19

Sampling points

10

Highest level

0.023 µg/L

Latest date

10 June 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

PFOS
0.0230 µg/L
PFPeA
0.0190 µg/L
PFOA
0.0160 µg/L
PFHxA
0.0100 µg/L
PFBS
0.0070 µg/L
PFBA
0.0059 µg/L
PFHpA
0.0055 µg/L
PFOS (linear)
0.0036 µg/L
PFHxS (linear)
0.0028 µg/L
6:2 FTSA
0.0028 µg/L
FBSA
0.0028 µg/L
PFOS (total)
0.0026 µg/L
PFOS (branched)
0.0025 µg/L
PFDA
0.0016 µg/L
7:3 FTCA
0.0015 µg/L
6:2 FtSAB
0.0014 µg/L
PFecHS
0.0012 µg/L
PFHxS (branched)
0.0006 µg/L
PFHxSA
0.0006 µg/L

Dashed line = WHO guideline (0.1 µg/L). Bar shows maximum detected level.


Sampling points

Environment Agency monitoring locations near Bristol.

EASTVILLE LAKE INLET
0.023 µg/L
AVON KEYNSHAM M
0.005 µg/L
CHEW STOKE STREAM
0.002 µg/L
RSN1101 PUBLOW
0.005 µg/L
WRAXALL SERVICE STATION BOREHOLE
0.019 µg/L
HENLEAZE LAKE (36050)
0.007 µg/L
ADJACENT TO SOMERBY CLOSE - TRIB OF STOKE BROOK
0.009 µg/L
SSN0252 LANGRIDGE COMBE
0.002 µg/L
D/S FARMBOROUGH STW
0.007 µg/L
GAME FARM, LATTERIDGE
0.001 µg/L

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

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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
  • Higher upfront cost than any jug or tap filter

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PFAS data for nearby cities


Check your postcode

Get a detailed water quality report for your exact area in Bristol.


Frequently asked questions

Has PFAS been found in Bristol water?

Yes. Environment Agency monitoring has detected 19 PFAS compounds across 10 sampling points in water sources near Bristol. The highest recorded level is 0.023 µg/L (PFOS). Note that this is environmental monitoring of rivers and groundwater, not treated tap water.

What PFAS compounds were found in Bristol?

The following PFAS compounds have been detected near Bristol: PFOA, PFOS, PFHxA, PFBS, PFBA, PFOS (branched), PFHxS (linear), PFOS (linear), 6:2 FTSA, PFHpA, PFHxS (branched), PFPeA, PFecHS, FBSA, PFHxSA, PFDA, 7:3 FTCA, 6:2 FtSAB, PFOS (total). PFOS was recorded at the highest level of 0.023 µg/L.

Is Bristol tap water safe to drink despite PFAS?

Bristol 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 Bristol?

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 Bristol households concerned about PFAS exposure.

PFAS data from the Environment Agency Water Quality Archive. Environmental monitoring of rivers and groundwater near Bristol — not treated tap water. Last updated 10 June 2026. See our methodology.