Is Preston Tap Water Safe To Drink?

Yes! The tap water is safe to drink.

Yes, tap water in Preston, England, is safe to drink. It is supplied by United Utilities and must meet strict drinking water standards set for England.

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Water Sources
Drinking Fountains

The water is treated and regularly tested for bacteria, chemicals, and other contaminants. Follow any local boil-water notice issued during a temporary incident, and contact United Utilities if the water changes in colour, taste, or smell.

Last checked: 2026-08-31

United Kingdom is ranked as number 2 globally with a score of 98.2% in the water quality EPI research conducted by Yale University.

Source of Water in Preston, United Kingdom

Tap water in Preston is supplied by United Utilities. It comes mainly from surface water collected in upland reservoirs, particularly Haweswater in the Lake District, and transported through the Haweswater Aqueduct.

The water is treated at facilities including Franklaw Water Treatment Works near Preston before entering the local supply network. United Utilities may also blend in water from other reservoirs and groundwater sources, depending on demand and operating conditions.

Preston Drinking Fountains

Public drinking fountains in Preston, England, are generally safe to use when they are installed and maintained by the local authority or another responsible organisation. They should meet England’s drinking water standards and receive routine hygiene and water quality checks.

Use only fountains clearly marked as drinking water and follow any posted instructions. Do not drink from a fountain that is damaged, dirty, switched off, or marked as non-potable.

Drinking Water Map

Here is a map showing all the locations of drinking water spots in Preston. 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 Preston 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.