By Emily Rivers
Last updated 8th March 2024

Having a pool at home is something that many homeowners dream of in the UK. Popular in Australia and southern states of the USA thanks to the warmer climate, they’re still relatively rare in this country thanks to our colder (and wetter!) weather.

But if you’ve got the money to spend on a heated pool or even an indoor pool, they can be a great addition to your home that could add value in the long term. Let’s go through the costs of building a swimming pool to help you weigh up whether it’s worth it.

How much does it cost to have a pool in the UK?

Costs can vary hugely to have a swimming pool installed in the UK, but the average cost to fit an 11m x 4m x 1.5m pool is £81,000.

Type of pool (11m x 4m x 1.5m)

Average cost

Budget outdoor pool

£54,000

Mid-range outdoor pool

£81,000

Premium outdoor pool

£128,000

Budget indoor pool

£160,000

Mid-range indoor pool

£319,000

Premium indoor pool

£489,000

These costs are just averages. Many factors can affect the final cost of your swimming pool installation, including the suitability of your soil, how easy access to the space is and where you live. Post a job on HaMuch to get quotes from builders in your area to get an accurate quote.

Swimming pool cost

Factors that affect the cost of building a swimming pool

  • Type of pool: As you’d expect, a fully tiled heated indoor pool will cost much more than a small above-ground pool.

  • Dimensions: The larger your pool is, the more it will cost. Sometimes the depth will affect the cost more than the length and width.

  • Access: If your garden is difficult to access and your builders will need special equipment that fits through your home or narrow gate (such as small diggers), you’ll usually pay more.

  • Your location: One of the biggest factors that affects the cost of your swimming pool is where you live. Installations in the south east or London will cost more than those in other parts of the country, with northern England often coming out cheapest.

Types of swimming pool

There are three main types of pool that are commonly used in the UK, and within those types you can have features like infinity style, hydrotherapy and salt water. But we’ll just take you through the main types of pool that UK homeowners usually have installed:

Above-ground pools

Above-ground pools are the cheapest type of pool to have. You won’t usually need a builder for these pools, as you simply put the frame together and fill it up with water. These types of pools are ideal for children who want to splash around in the summer, but most adults or older children won’t be able to swim in them. These pools can cost up to £500, but you can get them for as little as £60.

Block and liner pools

Possibly the most popular way to build a pool in the UK, block and liner pools involve digging out the area then forming the shape of the pool using concrete blocks. The builders will then render the walls and floor before covering it with a strong and flexible vinyl liner. These liners come in a variety of patterns and colours, giving you the look of tiles without the cost and extra installation time. Block and liner pools can cost anywhere between £50,000-£100,000.

One-piece pools

One-piece pools are becoming much more popular as they are quicker to install than block and liner pools. One-piece pool shells are made from ceramic composite or fibreglass and are lowered into the dug-out area for your pool, removing the need for concrete blocks and liners. They’re easier to clean and need fewer chemicals since the shell is impermeable.

Plus, one-piece pools require less energy to heat than block and liner pools, so your running costs should be lower. They come in many colours, shapes and sizes, so you can have almost anything you want! Expect to pay similar prices for one-piece pools: between £54,000-£128,000 depending on the size and shape.

Are above-ground pools worth it?

Whether above-ground pools are worth it is down to your personal preference. Above-ground pools are far cheaper than in-ground ones and can be taken down whenever you like, so you don’t lose garden space all year round. However, they are harder to heat, can cost a lot to run and aren’t as big as in-ground pools, so some may argue that they don’t offer as much enjoyment for adults.

If you have the money for an in-ground pool, you’ll probably get much more pleasure from it than an above-ground pool. But if you’re looking for a cheap way to get the kids outside in the summer, above-ground pools are the way to go.

What is the cheapest way to build a swimming pool?

The cheapest way to build a swimming pool is using the block and liner method. They’re a popular way to build a pool, but there are disadvantages to them.

Using concrete blocks to construct the pool shape means that if there is any natural ground movement, the base can crack. Vinyl liners also need replacing every 5 to 10 years and they can get punctures if sharp objects find their way into your pool. Trying to find the source of the hole can be tricky, making them hard to repair.

If you have the budget available or are able to save up the extra money, it may be worth considering a one-piece pool. These often come with long guarantees – sometimes up to 50 years – against leaks, so while they may cost more in the short term, over the long term they may save you money.

How long does it take to fit a swimming pool?

How long it takes to fit a swimming pool varies depending on the type of pool you choose, but most installations will be completed within 8 to 12 weeks.

You may have to wait for planning permission to be granted, and then for the area to be dug out. In the UK, this might be delayed due to the weather! Once the concrete blocks and vinyl or the shell have been installed, the area will need to be finished with coping stones, decking or a patio.

Generally, one-piece pools will take slightly less time to fit than block and liner pools.

How much does it cost to build a pool house?

If you’re going to the expense of having a pool installed, you may as well have a pool house too! Pool houses are great for offering a place for people to hang out when they’re having a break from swimming, and can act as a changing and shower area too, stopping trails of wet footprints in your home.

If you just want a pre-fabricated pool house without plumbing to simply use as a summer house and changing area, you can buy these for as little as £3,000 plus labour at around £1,000. Add around £4,500 for a shower room.

If you’re looking for a pool house that also contains your pool, you’ll pay much more. The average 110m2 pool building will cost £230,000 to build.

FAQs

Will a swimming pool add value to my home?

A well-built, well-maintained swimming pool should add value to your home. Expect a maximum of 7% added value to your property.

However, it’s worth bearing in mind that some buyers will be put off by a swimming pool. The cost of maintaining a pool may make some buyers consider lowering their offer, or they may even factor in removing the pool altogether.

Swimming pools add the most value to large, luxurious properties in the countryside that have big gardens, so that the pool only takes up one part of the space.

Do you need planning permission for an outdoor swimming pool?

In general, you won’t need planning permission for an outdoor swimming pool. It’s always worth checking with your local building control to check that there aren’t any special restrictions in your area.

There are some circumstances when you may need to apply for planning permission. Usually, it’s if your property is in a conservation area, national park or is a listed building.

If you want an indoor pool and need to construct the building, planning permission will usually apply. It’s always a good idea to get an architect or planning consultant involved to ensure you follow all the rules and regulations.

How much does it cost to maintain an indoor pool?

How much it costs to maintain an indoor pool can vary, but expect to pay at least £5,000 per year. It can cost around £10 per day (£3,650 per year) to heat and run an indoor pool, while cleaning, servicing and maintenance will cost more on top.

What is a good size pool for swimming?

A good size pool for swimming is 11m x 4m. With this size pool, you should be able to fit two or three people in to swim some laps. If you’re a serious swimmer, you may want a 153-metre pool, but most average families will find that 11 metres is enough for them.

How much room should you have around a pool?

You should have at least 100cm (1 metre) for room around a pool to allow for walkways. You don’t want to end up falling in the pool as you walk past fully clothed! Leaving at least a metre ensures that there’s enough space to walk freely around the pool.

If you want a patio next to your swimming pool, a patio of around 55 square metres should be enough to allow you to walk around the pool and hold dining furniture so you can enjoy al fresco meals and pretend your somewhere exotic!

What is the most expensive part of installing a pool?

The most expensive part of installing a pool tends to be the pool itself. Whether you’re having a block and liner pool or a one-piece pool, a lot of materials are needed which drives the cost and the labour up. The second most expensive part of installing a pool is usually the groundworks, as it can take weeks to dig out the area. Plus, you’ll need to pay for all the material that’s dug out of the ground to be disposed of.

If you’re ready to get quotes for your swimming pool project, post your job on HaMuch now and we’ll put you in touch with builders in your area.


Estimates for common extension builder jobs;

Rates for other trades

Swimming pool cost in the UK
Swimming pool cost in the UK (excluding VAT or callout charges)
Location in UKSwimming pool cost
Swimming pool near London£80,904
Swimming pool near Birmingham£80,656
Swimming pool near Glasgow£80,824
Swimming pool near Leeds£80,616
Swimming pool near Liverpool£80,600
Swimming pool near Sheffield£80,856
Swimming pool near Edinburgh£80,928
Swimming pool near Manchester£80,616
Swimming pool near Belfast£80,600
Swimming pool near Bristol£80,784
Swimming pool near Leicester£80,592
Swimming pool near Cardiff£80,584
Swimming pool near Coventry£80,600
Swimming pool near Bradford£80,632
Swimming pool near Nottingham£80,712
Swimming pool near Newcastle Upon Tyne£80,784
Swimming pool near Brighton and Hove£80,744
Swimming pool near Derby£80,712
Swimming pool near Hull£80,592
Swimming pool near Plymouth£80,728
Swimming pool near Stoke-on-Trent£80,600
Swimming pool near Southampton£80,736
Swimming pool near Northampton£80,768
Swimming pool near Wolverhampton£80,656
Swimming pool near Luton£80,912
Swimming pool near Portsmouth£80,728
Swimming pool near Reading£80,912
Swimming pool near Norwich£80,520
Swimming pool near Milton Keynes£80,888
Swimming pool near Bournemouth£80,824
Swimming pool near Aberdeen£81,016
Swimming pool near Peterborough£80,864
Swimming pool near Bolton£80,608
Swimming pool near Swindon£80,720
Swimming pool near Southend-on-Sea£80,768
Swimming pool near Warrington£80,624
Swimming pool near Oxford£80,856
Swimming pool near Swansea£80,664
Swimming pool near Sunderland£80,768
Swimming pool near Slough£80,912
Swimming pool near Kingswood£80,784
Swimming pool near Telford£80,672
Swimming pool near Cambridge£80,864
Swimming pool near Ipswich£80,624
Swimming pool near Blackpool£80,520
Swimming pool near Middlesbrough£80,696
Swimming pool near Dundee£80,864
Swimming pool near Huddersfield£80,640
Swimming pool near York£80,576
Swimming pool near Poole£80,824
Swimming pool near Watford£80,912
Swimming pool near Newport£80,608
Swimming pool near Colchester£80,640
Swimming pool near Exeter£80,696
Swimming pool near Blackburn£80,584
Swimming pool near Crawley£80,864
Swimming pool near Gloucester£80,744
Swimming pool near Stockport£80,632
Swimming pool near Basingstoke£80,920
Swimming pool near Basildon£80,816
Swimming pool near Cheltenham£80,816
Swimming pool near Gateshead£80,784
Swimming pool near Worthing£80,752
Swimming pool near Rochdale£80,616
Swimming pool near Oldham£80,632
Swimming pool near Chelmsford£80,808
Swimming pool near Birkenhead£80,600
Swimming pool near Maidstone£80,864
Swimming pool near Gillingham£80,832
Swimming pool near Salford£80,616
Swimming pool near Solihull£80,624
Swimming pool near St Helens£80,592
Swimming pool near Worcester£80,664
Swimming pool near Lincoln£80,560
Swimming pool near West Bromwich£80,648
Swimming pool near Eastbourne£80,728
Swimming pool near Wakefield£80,640
Swimming pool near Wythenshawe£80,624
Swimming pool near Bedford£80,952
Swimming pool near Hemel Hempstead£80,920
Swimming pool near Preston£80,576
Swimming pool near Stevenage£80,952
Swimming pool near Southport£80,608
Swimming pool near Bath£80,792
Swimming pool near Harlow£80,912
Swimming pool near Sutton Coldfield£80,664
Swimming pool near Darlington£80,672
Swimming pool near Chester£80,600
Swimming pool near Hastings£80,744
Swimming pool near Nuneaton£80,624
Swimming pool near Halifax£80,640
Swimming pool near Hartlepool£80,712
Swimming pool near Aylesbury£80,896
Swimming pool near Doncaster£80,760
Swimming pool near Grimsby£80,624
Swimming pool near Wallasey£80,600
Swimming pool near Stockton-on-Tees£80,712
Swimming pool near Weston-super-Mare£80,712
Swimming pool near High Wycombe£80,912
Swimming pool near Ashford£80,712
Swimming pool near Redditch£80,632
Swimming pool near Wigan£80,624
Swimming pool near Scunthorpe£80,560
Swimming pool near Bury£80,624
Swimming pool near Paisley£80,864
Swimming pool near Bracknell£80,920
Swimming pool near Burnley£80,640
Swimming pool near Rugby£80,552
Swimming pool near Guildford£80,936
Swimming pool near Carlisle£81,000
Swimming pool near Chatham£80,824
Swimming pool near East Kilbride£80,768
Swimming pool near Newcastle-under-Lyme£80,600
Swimming pool near Chesterfield£80,872
Swimming pool near Burton upon Trent£80,696
Swimming pool near Tamworth£80,648
Swimming pool near Shrewsbury£80,600
Swimming pool near Woking£80,920
Swimming pool near St Albans£80,928
Swimming pool near Harrogate£80,592
Swimming pool near Crewe£80,616
Swimming pool near South Shields£80,792
Swimming pool near Craigavon£80,600
Swimming pool near Stafford£80,640
Swimming pool near Rotherham£80,848
Swimming pool near Barnsley£80,792
Swimming pool near Lowestoft£80,680
Swimming pool near Walsall£80,656
Swimming pool near Gosport£80,728
Swimming pool near Dartford£80,896
Swimming pool near Bognor Regis£80,752
Swimming pool near Corby£80,656
Swimming pool near Paignton£80,800
Swimming pool near Maidenhead£80,920
Swimming pool near Rochester£80,840
Swimming pool near Ellesmere Port£80,616
Swimming pool near Loughborough£80,648
Swimming pool near Dudley£80,656
Swimming pool near Dewsbury£80,640
Swimming pool near Mansfield£80,744
Swimming pool near Margate£80,600
Swimming pool near Kettering£80,664
Swimming pool near Cannock£80,664
Swimming pool near Sale£80,616
Swimming pool near Taunton£80,720
Swimming pool near Runcorn£80,616
Swimming pool near Farnborough£80,936
Swimming pool near Tynemouth£80,792
Swimming pool near Hereford£80,640
Swimming pool near Halesowen£80,648
Swimming pool near Widnes£80,608
Swimming pool near Huyton with Roby£80,600
Swimming pool near Scarborough£80,744
Swimming pool near Gravesend£80,856
Swimming pool near Bebington£80,600
Swimming pool near Kidderminster£80,624
Swimming pool near Stourbridge£80,648
Swimming pool near Barry£80,568
Swimming pool near Smethwick£80,648
Swimming pool near Dunfermline£80,920
Swimming pool near Livingston£80,888
Swimming pool near Weymouth£80,872
Swimming pool near Brentwood£80,856
Swimming pool near Barrow-in-Furness£80,768
Swimming pool near Hamilton£80,592
Swimming pool near Canterbury£80,656
Swimming pool near Wellingborough£80,784
Swimming pool near Sittingbourne£80,784
Swimming pool near Macclesfield£80,632
Swimming pool near Bootle£80,600
Swimming pool near Carlton£80,712
Swimming pool near Esher£80,912
Swimming pool near Clacton-on-Sea£80,616
Swimming pool near Lancaster£80,584
Swimming pool near Beeston£80,632
Swimming pool near Banbury£80,696
Swimming pool near Torquay£80,872
Swimming pool near Folkestone£80,648
Swimming pool near Kingswinford£80,648
Swimming pool near Bloxwich£80,656
Swimming pool near Bridgend£80,568
Swimming pool near Welwyn Garden City£80,928
Swimming pool near Lisburn£80,600
Swimming pool near Leamington Spa£80,592
Swimming pool near Washington£80,776
Swimming pool near Tunbridge Wells£80,832
Swimming pool near Kirkcaldy£80,976
Swimming pool near Hinckley£80,584
Swimming pool near Durham£80,752
Swimming pool near Cumbernauld£80,736
Swimming pool near Wokingham£80,920
Swimming pool near Horsham£80,864
Swimming pool near Crosby£80,600
Swimming pool near Yeovil£80,936
Swimming pool near Thundersley£80,784
Swimming pool near Altrincham£80,616
Swimming pool near Willenhall£80,640
Swimming pool near Christchurch£80,816
Swimming pool near Keighley£80,616
Swimming pool near Ashton-under-Lyne£80,624