Worksop Water Hardness & Quality Report (2026)

Worksop, in north Nottinghamshire at the edge of Sherwood Forest near the South Yorkshire border, is supplied by Severn Trent Water from the Permian Magnesian Limestone aquifer and the Triassic Sherwood Sandstone of north Nottinghamshire. The Permian Magnesian Limestone — a distinctive pale dolomitic limestone — forms a north-south scarp running from Nottingham through Worksop to Rotherham, immediately east of the town. Severn Trent draws from licensed boreholes in both the Magnesian Limestone and the Triassic Sherwood Sandstone aquifer beneath the Nottinghamshire plain west of the limestone scarp. The Magnesian Limestone groundwater carries very high dissolved calcium and magnesium from the dolomitic carbonate dissolution, producing hard water characteristic of the north Nottinghamshire limestone supply zone.

Worksop's hard water — 228.5 mg/L (16.0°Clark) — reflects the Permian Magnesian Limestone and Triassic Sherwood Sandstone groundwater blend in the north Nottinghamshire supply zone. The Magnesian Limestone here contributes both calcium and magnesium hardness, and the TDS of 663 mg/L reflects elevated dissolved solids. The Drinking Water Inspectorate (DWI) classifies this supply as hard.

Limescale is a persistent household challenge in Worksop. At 228.5 mg/L, limescale forms in kettles within two to three weeks and monthly descaling is advisable. Combi-boiler heat exchangers accumulate deposits steadily — annual boiler servicing and an in-line scale inhibitor are recommended. Showerheads, taps, and shower screens develop regular deposits. Washing-up liquid lathers poorly. Using Calgon monthly in the washing machine and maintaining a regular descaling routine is important limescale management for Worksop households.