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PFAS in Cheltenham Water

Based on Environment Agency monitoring data. Last updated 6 February 2026.

According to TapWater.uk's analysis, 16 PFAS compounds have been detected across 5 sampling points in Cheltenham. The highest recorded level is 0.017 µg/L (6:2 FTSA).

Compounds detected

16

Sampling points

5

Highest level

0.017 µg/L

Latest date

6 February 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

6:2 FTSA
0.0170 µg/L
PFOS
0.0076 µg/L
PFTeDA
0.0061 µg/L
PFPeA
0.0043 µg/L
PFHxA
0.0040 µg/L
PFOA
0.0036 µg/L
PFBA
0.0030 µg/L
PFBS
0.0026 µg/L
PFHxS (linear)
0.0021 µg/L
PFHpA
0.0017 µg/L
PFPeS
0.0012 µg/L
PFOS (linear)
0.0009 µg/L
PFOS (branched)
0.0008 µg/L
PFHpS
0.0008 µg/L
PFHxS (branched)
0.0006 µg/L
FBSA
0.0006 µg/L

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


Sampling points

Environment Agency monitoring locations near Cheltenham.

RIVER AVON LOWER TEWKESBURY
0.008 µg/L
BROCKHAMPTON, WHITEHALL FARM SPRING
0.017 µg/L
RIVER SEVERN (UPPER) TEWKESBURY
0.003 µg/L
COMPTON ABDALE, COBBLERS HILL SPRING :SP01/94
0.006 µg/L
CARRANT BROOK TEWKESBURY
0.002 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

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Why it fits
  • Removes 12+ contaminants including PFAS and fluoride
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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 Cheltenham.


Frequently asked questions

Has PFAS been found in Cheltenham water?

Yes. Environment Agency monitoring has detected 16 PFAS compounds across 5 sampling points in water sources near Cheltenham. The highest recorded level is 0.017 µg/L (6:2 FTSA). Note that this is environmental monitoring of rivers and groundwater, not treated tap water.

What PFAS compounds were found in Cheltenham?

The following PFAS compounds have been detected near Cheltenham: PFOS, PFOA, 6:2 FTSA, PFHxA, PFPeS, PFBS, PFHxS (linear), PFHpA, PFOS (linear), PFBA, PFPeA, PFOS (branched), PFHpS, FBSA, PFTeDA, PFHxS (branched). 6:2 FTSA was recorded at the highest level of 0.017 µg/L.

Is Cheltenham tap water safe to drink despite PFAS?

Cheltenham 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 Cheltenham?

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 Cheltenham households concerned about PFAS exposure.

PFAS data from the Environment Agency Water Quality Archive. Environmental monitoring of rivers and groundwater near Cheltenham — not treated tap water. Last updated 6 February 2026. See our methodology.