What is the Healthiest Water to Drink? A Guide for UK Residents

Water is life. Every day our bodies lose water through sweat, urine and breathing. Staying hydrated is key to energy levels, digestion and healthy skin. But with so many types of water out there, you may wonder what is the healthiest water to drink? This guide breaks it down for you.

Many people assume all water is the same. After all, water is H₂O right? While chemically water is the same, the quality and source can vary greatly. Some water has minerals like calcium and magnesium, while others may have contaminants or chemicals that can affect your health over time.

In the UK tap water is generally safe to drink as it’s regulated to strict quality control. But some people prefer filtered or bottled water for taste, health or peace of mind. Understanding the options can help you make an informed decision.

Tap water is the most convenient and cheapest option. The UK has strict regulations under the Water Supply (Water Quality) Regulations 2016 so tap water is safe to drink.

Pros:

• Readily available and cheap
• Fluoridated in many areas to support dental health
• Environmentally friendly compared to bottled water

Cons:

• Taste can vary depending on the local supply
• May contain trace amounts of chlorine or minerals that affect flavour
• Older pipes may introduce metals like lead in some properties

For most healthy adults UK tap water is enough hydration. If you don’t like the taste a simple water filter can remove chlorine and improve flavour.

Filtered water is tap water that has been passed through a filtration system like a carbon filter, reverse osmosis (RO) water filter or pitcher filter.

Pros:

• Removes impurities, chlorine and some heavy metals
• Improves taste and odour
• Convenient for households with older plumbing

Cons:

• Requires regular maintenance and filter replacement
• More expensive than plain tap water
• Filtered water is a popular choice for people who want clean great tasting water without the cost or environmental impact of bottled water.

Bottled water comes in many forms: spring, mineral, purified and sometimes enhanced with electrolytes.

Pros:

• Convenient for on-the-go consumption
• Marketed as premium with added minerals
• May taste better than tap water in some areas

Cons:

• Expensive over time
• Plastic waste and environmental impact
• Not necessarily healthier than filtered tap water

Spring water is naturally filtered through rocks providing minerals like calcium and magnesium which support bone health and hydration. Mineral water can be a nice treat but not necessary for daily hydration if your diet already includes sufficient minerals.

Alkaline water has a higher pH than regular water, usually around 8 or 9 compared to neutral water at pH 7.

Pros:

• Claimed to neutralise acid in the body
• May help with hydration during intense exercise
• Often contains minerals like calcium and magnesium

Cons:

• Not strongly supported by scientific research
• More expensive than tap or filtered water
• Over-consumption may disrupt natural stomach acidity

Alkaline water may be suitable for occasional use especially if you like the taste. But not essential for good health.

Distilled water is boiled and condensed to remove minerals and impurities.

Pros:

• Free from most contaminants
• Ideal for laboratory or medical use

Cons:

• Lacks minerals which some people find unpalatable
• Long term exclusive use may not provide essential minerals
• Distilled water is not necessary for daily drinking in the UK unless you have specific health or medical needs.

Related: Why Does Filtered Water Taste Different?

Minerals like calcium and magnesium are naturally present in spring or mineral water. These support bone health, muscle function and electrolyte balance. Filtered tap water may remove some of these minerals so you may want to choose filters that retain beneficial minerals.

The healthiest water should be free from harmful contaminants like heavy metals, pesticides or microorganisms. Tap water in the UK is generally very safe but if you live in an area with old plumbing filtering may be advisable.

Enjoy the taste of water and you’ll drink more. If your tap water tastes bad a filter or bottled water can make it better.

Filtered tap water is far more environmentally friendly than bottled water. Reducing plastic waste is important for sustainability.

Yes. UK tap water is highly regulated and generally safe for daily consumption. But some people filter their water to improve taste or remove minor contaminants.

Not necessarily. While bottled water is convenient it’s not inherently healthier than filtered tap water and creates plastic waste. For most people filtered tap water is the best balance of safety, taste and environmental responsibility.

The healthiest water for hydration is clean, safe water that you like drinking. This could be tap, filtered or mineral water. Drinking enough water regularly is more important than choosing a type.

Alkaline water may taste different and has minerals but there’s no strong evidence it offers significant health benefits over regular water for most people.

• Carry a reusable water bottle with you.
• Set reminders on your phone or smartwatch.
• Add natural flavours like cucumber, mint or lemon.
• Track your daily intake to ensure you’re hydrated.

Click here if you want to learn more about Is Water Flavoring Good for You?

The healthiest water to drink in the UK is clean, safe and enjoyable to drink. For most people tap water is safe and provides essential hydration. If you prefer better taste or want to remove minor impurities filtered tap water is a good choice. Bottled water, alkaline water and mineral water can be consumed occasionally but not necessary for daily health.

Ultimately the healthiest water is the one you’ll drink consistently. Staying hydrated is key to overall well being so focus on drinking enough water daily.