Is Plymouth Tap Water Safe To Drink?

Yes! The tap water is safe to drink.

Tap water in Plymouth, England, is safe to drink. It is supplied by South West Water and must meet the drinking water standards regulated by the Drinking Water Inspectorate.

Find clean drinking water on your travels with our iOS app 🚰

Water Sources
Drinking Fountains

Water quality can be affected by plumbing inside older properties, especially lead pipes or fittings. If South West Water issues a local boil-water notice, follow that advice until the restriction is lifted.

Last checked: 2026-08-31

United Kingdom is ranked as number 1 globally with a score of 100% in the water quality EPI research conducted by Yale University.

Source of Water in Plymouth, United Kingdom

Tap water in Plymouth is supplied by South West Water, with the main source being Burrator Reservoir on the River Meavy in Dartmoor. The reservoir collects rainfall and runoff from the surrounding moorland.

Water can also be supplied from Roadford Reservoir and other parts of South West Water’s regional network when needed. It is treated at a water treatment works before entering Plymouth’s mains system.

Plymouth Drinking Fountains

Public drinking fountains in Plymouth, England are generally safe to use when they are clearly marked as drinking-water fountains and are maintained by the local authority or a recognised provider. The water supply is subject to strict UK drinking-water safety standards.

Do not drink from a fountain that is labelled non-potable, appears damaged or dirty, or has been closed or tagged with a warning. Let the water run briefly before drinking, especially if the fountain has not been used recently.

Drinking Water Map

Here is a map showing all the locations of drinking water spots in Plymouth. You can click on each water drop to open the spot directly in Google Maps for directions. For easy access on the go, download our iOS app to find water fountains nearby.

Nearby Places

About the Author

Hi, I'm Emily Hartman, a researcher and water quality specialist with a background in public health.

I've spent the last few years studying how everyday water systems impact our health, and I'm passionate about making that information clear and useful for everyone.

Safe, clean tap water isn't just my job, it's something I truly care about.

Disclaimer

* The information provided on this website regarding the safety of tap water in Plymouth is sourced from reputable sources such as the World Health Organization (WHO), local water authorities, and the Environmental Performance Index (EPI) from Yale University. While we strive to ensure accuracy and reliability, it's important to note that water quality can vary over time and may be subject to factors beyond our control. Users are encouraged to verify the current water quality status with local authorities or consult additional resources before making decisions regarding water consumption. We disclaim any liability for actions taken based on the information provided on this website.