Is the water safe to swim in at London Royal Docks?

Created by Meredith B, Modified on Fri, 26 Dec, 2025 at 12:16 PM by Meredith B

Yes, the water is safe to swim in.


Love Open Water operates swimming all year round in Royal Victoria Dock and the water is tested monthly and is consistently rated 'excellent' according to EU Bathing Guidelines.  


The water is slightly salty but very clean and pleasant to swim in.  You will find that it is a couple of degrees colder than lakes and more similar to venues.


The Dock2Dock swim has run for 10 consecutive years and not been impacted by water quality issues. 

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