Learn about wild swimming at Fairhaven and how we ensure water safety with regular quality testing in our beautiful Broadland setting.

Water Quality & Algae Monitoring

At Fairhaven, we are committed to ensuring a safe and enjoyable environment for all visitors who take part in wild swimming and watersports. One of our top priorities is regularly monitoring the water quality of South Walsham Inner Broad, particularly in relation to blue-green algae (Cyanobacteria), which can sometimes appear in freshwater bodies during the warmer months.

Understanding Blue-Green Algae

Blue-green algae are naturally occurring organisms found in many lakes and rivers across the UK. Despite the name, they are technically a type of bacteria and while most types are harmless, some can produce toxins when in bloom. These blooms typically gather at the water’s edge or in sheltered areas, often blown in by the wind. Importantly, not all blue-green algae are toxic, and the presence of algae does not always indicate a risk. Human health concerns are primarily linked to high concentrations of specific toxic strains, particularly during bloom events.

Here is a list of Algae Species found in our waters and the risk levels explained.

Monitoring & Safety Standards

We follow guidance set by the World Health Organization (WHO), which recommends that recreational waters should remain open for swimming and other water-based activities as long as blue-green algae levels stay below 100,000 cells per millilitre.

You can read more about the WHO’s guidance on safe recreational water use here:

WHO Guidelines on Recreational Water Quality

To meet this standard and provide transparency, we have a regular water testing regime in place throughout the season. Water samples are collected and sent to an accredited laboratory for analysis. This allows us to:

Monitor for the presence and concentration of blue-green algae.
Track seasonal trends and respond quickly if levels change.
Make informed decisions about safety and whether swimming or water access should be temporarily paused.

Recent Test Results

We carry out water quality testing from July to September each year.

Up until July 2025, all results over the past four years have consistently shown algae levels well below the WHO safety threshold, with no need for closures or restrictions. View Quick Overview Chart 2022-2024

This summer is the first time levels have risen above the threshold, and as a result, we have paused all swimming sessions. Previous tests on 2 and 10 July showed levels that were too high, so we will retest on 22 July. If the results show levels below the recommended limits for safe swimming, we may resume swimming on Saturday, 22 July.

We continue to monitor the water closely and will update visitors immediately if any risks are identified. Please check our social media channels and inboxes regularly for the latest news and updates.

We continue to monitor the water closely and will always update visitors immediately if any risks arise.

📄 Download our most recent water quality certificate here:

Your Safety Matters

Although toxic algae blooms are rare in our swimming area, we always advise the following precautions:

Avoid swimming near the banks or edges of the Broad, where algae tends to accumulate
Do not allow dogs or children to drink or paddle in shallow, stagnant water
Always follow on-site signage and any instructions from staff

We recommend that all swimmers and watersports users review the latest water quality reports and make their own informed decisions about whether to enter the water. Each individual should assess their own level of risk and comfort before taking part in any activities.

Please note: In the event that any water test exceeds the acceptable WHO threshold, we will immediately suspend all swimming and in-water activity until levels return to a safe standard. We reserve the right to take necessary action to protect visitor safety, including ending or restricting activities as required.

If you have any questions about current conditions or would like more details about our water testing programme, please don’t hesitate to contact us or speak to a member of our team during your visit.