New swimming spots approved across England ahead of summer – full list | UK | News

As summer approaches and a heatwave brings ideal swimming weather, the government recently announced the opening of new swimming areas across the country. They submitted a list of 13 new sites, including the first site on the River Thames in London.

The listing was announced earlier this month, on 15 May 2026, and the initiative hopes to help “restore pride in local areas, support outdoor and swimming groups and protect precious rivers and beaches”. The new swimming spots range from Northumberland to Devon and are spread across the country. The government has also promised that they will be “tested rigorously and regularly by the Environment Agency”.

With 13 new swimming spots across the country, England now has a total of 460 swimming holes for Brits to choose from this summer, covering almost all of the country’s coastal areas.

The government said: “They will be tested stringently and regularly by the Environment Agency throughout the swimming season, meaning swimmers will have better information about water quality and can swim with greater confidence.”

The swimming areas were chosen following a public consultation where 90% of voters supported each designated spot, with strong support given to the Ham & Kingston area in particular.

Four out of five swimming areas are currently rated ‘Excellent’ or ‘Good’. Swimming season is from May 15 to September 30.

Water Minister Emma Hardy said: “The introduction of these new swimming areas means better monitoring of our waterways, supporting local tourism and greater confidence for local swimmers.”

He added: “After years of indifference to bathing waters, this government has expanded the number of sites as part of our overhaul of the water sector.

“We are committed to reforming our water industry for generations and will not stop until the job is done.”

The 13 new swimming areas are listed below: