If you’ve grown up in or around Bristol, you’ll have probably heard stories about the harbour’s water quality – but things have changed a lot in the last 30 years.
Today, the water we Paddle and Kayak on is predominantly fresh water from the River Avon. Regular weekly and monthly testing is carried out, with results published on the Bristol City Council website.
Water quality rated good or excellent
On Bristol Harbour, during the summer months, water quality is usually rated as good or excellent, which is great news for those Paddling or Kayaking.
The council’s results are measuring levels of Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria in the harbour water. The measurements are given as colony counts per 100ml of water. There is no single UK legal threshold for inland recreational waters like Bristol Harbour but public health organisations generally use risk bands broadly like this:
| E. coli count (per 100ml) | General interpretation | Typical risk |
| 0-100 | Low contamination | Generally lower risk |
| 100-500 | Moderate contamination | Increased risk for immersion activities |
| 500-900 | Poorer quality | Significant caution advised |
| 900+ | Very poor / high contamination | Higher illness risk |
The site closest to SUP Bristol’s base includes Baltic Wharf where the readings are low – the most recent test showed a reading of “70”. From a microbiological perspective this is comparatively clean for an urban harbour.
Concerns are understandable
The quality of water can be a concern for many people, especially those looking to plan a water-based adventure with children or older people. Whilst these concerns are completely understandable, there have been big improvements to water quality and testing over the last thirty years, as well as increased funding.
What causes a change in water quality?
There are a number of different events that can impact the level of water quality. These include:
- Sudden heavy rainfall
- Discharges from boats
- Discharges from wildlife
- Pollution incidents further up the river
It is advisable to follow normal open-water precautions if any of these incidents occur. With any harbour, river, or lake, it is sensible to avoid swallowing the water, cover any cuts, and wash your hands after being on the water.
So, is the water safe?
Yes! In short, Bristol Harbour is safe to paddle on! Based on the most recent results, the harbour is considered safe for paddling and kayaking, provided normal open-water precautions are followed.
Many clubs use Bristol Harbour as their base, and it is frequently used for sporting activities and events. Bristol Triathlon Club run their annual triathlon in the Harbour, and hundreds of children take part in watersports each weekend.