Rivers guides

How flow, rain, weirs, locks and tides change a river swim, and what the water quality ratings mean.

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Safe river swimming: the complete guide

10 min read

Rivers

How river bathing waters are tested and rated, why storm overflows matter after heavy rain, and how to check a UK river before you swim.

1 Oct 2026 5 min read

Rivers

How the tide pushes up a river and changes its flow, why you shouldn't swim in a tidal river you can't swim against, and how to check the tide.

10 Sept 2026 5 min read

Rivers

Why locks, gates and bridges need care, what the Canal & River Trust and Environment Agency say about swimming near them, and why jumping is risky.

27 Aug 2026 5 min read

Rivers

Why heavy rain in the last 36 hours is a reason for caution: faster flow, hidden debris and a higher chance of pollution in UK rivers.

23 Jul 2026 5 min read

Rivers

What a weir is, how the current below one can hold a swimmer under, why it's so hard to judge from the bank, and why you should never swim near one.

4 Jun 2026 5 min read