Open Water Swimming

Open water swimming, also known as wild swimming, is a recreational activity growing in popularity in recent years. Studies have shown that open water swimming benefits both the physical and mental wellbeing of participants, bringing a connection to nature and providing a space for mindfulness (Oliver et al, 2023; Overbury et al, 2023).

Bathing waters in Scotland are designated under the Bathing Waters (Scotland) Regulations 2008, under the European Bathing Waters Directive. These designated bathing waters are required to meet European water quality levels.

SEPA monitors the water quality of Scotland's bathing waters at 89 sites (SEPA, 2024). The largest factors leading to poor water quality are agricultural run-off, and in some cases discharge of human sewage. These issues can be heightened following periods of heavy rainfall. Bathing waters are designated as poor, excellent or good depending on the levels of coliform baceteria and faecal coliforms, such as Escherichia coli and Intestinal Enterococci. The frequency of sampling is at least once per fortnight during the bathing season (May to September). 

Along the East Grampian Coast the designated bathing water sites are Fraserburgh (Philorth and Tiger Hill), Peterhead (Lido), Cruden Bay, Collieston, Balmedie, Aberdeen, and Stonehaven - Fig. 1 states their water quality over recent years and Fig. 2 maps their locations.