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.
LocationMax levelCompoundCoordinates
EASTVILLE LAKE INLET
0.023 µg/LPFOS51.4772, -2.5529
AVON KEYNSHAM M
0.005 µg/LPFOA51.4190, -2.4880
CHEW STOKE STREAM
0.002 µg/LPFBA51.3533, -2.6330
RSN1101 PUBLOW
0.005 µg/LPFOA51.3778, -2.5422
WRAXALL SERVICE STATION BOREHOLE
0.019 µg/LPFPeA51.4384, -2.7464
HENLEAZE LAKE (36050)
0.007 µg/LPFBS51.4946, -2.6057
ADJACENT TO SOMERBY CLOSE - TRIB OF STOKE BROOK
0.009 µg/LPFHxA51.5292, -2.5511
SSN0252 LANGRIDGE COMBE
0.002 µg/LPFBS51.4217, -2.3855
D/S FARMBOROUGH STW
0.007 µg/LPFBS51.3471, -2.4738
GAME FARM, LATTERIDGE
0.001 µg/LPFOS (total)51.5623, -2.4837
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 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.