Above Ground Pool Or Hot Tub
Can’t decide between an above ground swimming pool UK families splash about in, or a bubbling hot tub for after-hours soaking?
Here’s the short answer:
Choose a pool if the kids rule the garden, go for a hot tub if you're chasing peace and bubbles.
Still torn?
We’re breaking it all down with real-life examples, honest pros and cons, and a third option you might not have considered.
Pool vs. Hot Tub: A Side-by-Side Comparison
Cost: Initial Purchase and Ongoing Expenses
Purchase Price
Let’s start with what hits the wallet first.
Above ground pools range from budget-friendly inflatable ones to framed setups that can cost hundreds (or thousands). If you’ve got a big garden and kids who live in swimwear, it’s worth the investment.
Hot tubs can be surprisingly affordable — especially inflatable models like Lay-Z-Spa. But if you’re leaning towards something more permanent (and plush), solid shell models can easily hit the £3,000–£5,000 mark.
Running Costs
This is where the hot tub bites back.
Heating water year-round? Not cheap. Expect higher electricity bills, especially in winter.
Pools don’t usually need heating in summer, but they still require pumps, filters, and the occasional top-up of chemicals. And don’t forget winterising – especially if you’re in chilly parts of the UK.
If energy costs are already high in your home, this could be the dealbreaker.
Size and Space Requirements
Backyard Footprint
Let’s talk turf.
Above ground pools typically need at least 4–5 metres of space. And that’s not including extra room around the edges for access or safety.
Hot tubs? A snug corner of 2–3 metres is often enough. One couple we spoke to tucked theirs under a pergola next to the shed — perfect little retreat.
Guest Capacity
Who’s coming to the party?
Pools are perfect for energetic kids, floaties, and games of water tag. They can comfortably fit several children or a few adults stretched out.
Hot tubs are more intimate. Great for a quiet soak or chat with friends, but they’re not made for cannonballs or noodle fights.
Installation & Maintenance
Installation Time
If you’ve got a free afternoon and a flat patch of grass, an inflatable pool or hot tub can be ready before dinner.
Larger framed pools take longer. You might need to prep the ground, install a filter, and even sort out electrics.
Hot tubs (inflatable) are pretty much plug-and-play. Solid shell tubs? Different story. They’ll likely need a level base, an electrician, and possibly a professional install.
Ongoing Maintenance and Chemicals
Neither option is set-it-and-forget-it.
Pools need daily checks during peak use — especially with kids hopping in and out all day. Leaves, bugs, and sunscreen can all throw off the chemical balance.
Hot tubs are smaller, but their water needs to stay pristine. That means checking sanitiser levels, cleaning the filters, and keeping an eye on the temperature.
One dad told us he sets a reminder every Sunday to top up chemicals and do a quick clean. It’s become part of his routine — like mowing the lawn.
Use Case: Relaxation, Exercise & Family Fun
Therapeutic Benefits (Hot Tub)
Hot tubs are heaven after a long day.
The warm water and massage jets help soothe aches, melt stress, and make even a drizzly Tuesday evening feel like a spa break. If you’re dealing with back pain or stiff joints, this could be a game-changer.
A mum of two said she uses her hot tub for 20 minutes every night after the kids are in bed — it's her 'me-time' sanctuary.
Exercise and Activities (Pool)
Pools aren’t just for splashing.
They’re brilliant for low-impact exercise — especially swimming, stretching, and water aerobics. Plus, kids burn off a ton of energy playing games like ‘shark attack’ and ‘pool volleyball’.
Even a smaller above ground pool can double as your family’s summer gym (and babysitter).
Seasons of Use
Extending the Swimming Season
This is where the UK climate plays referee.
Hot tubs are great all year round. Add a gazebo or windbreaker and you’ve got a warm escape even when it’s snowing.
Pools, unless heated, are mostly for late spring to early autumn. But there are ways to stretch the season — solar covers, wind barriers, and insulated frames help retain warmth.
We know one family in Yorkshire who added a pop-up shelter over their pool and swam until late October!
The “Third Option”: Is a Swim Spa Right for You?
What is a Swim Spa?
Not quite a pool. Not just a hot tub.
A swim spa is a heated, jet-powered combo that lets you swim in place. Think treadmill... but water. You can relax, exercise, or float — all in one sleek unit.
They’re gaining popularity in UK homes where space is tight but ambition is big.
Swim Spas vs. Pools vs. Hot Tubs
Cost Comparison
Let’s be blunt — swim spas aren’t cheap. Most start around £10,000 and climb from there.
But when you factor in year-round use and dual function (fitness + fun), the value starts to add up.
Size and Features
Swim spas are larger than hot tubs, but smaller than full-size pools. They often include built-in seats, massage jets, LED lighting, and touchscreen controls.
Some even come with built-in sound systems. Yes — you can swim laps to Beyoncé.
Best for Exercise
If swimming’s your thing but you don’t have room for a full pool, a swim spa is the best of both worlds.
With adjustable jets, you can swim at your pace — perfect for training or therapy. When you’re done? Switch to spa mode and soak it out.
Final Splash
Whether you’re dreaming of pool parties, quiet soaks, or a hybrid experience, there’s something out there for every garden — and every budget.
The real question?
Do you want to splash... or soak?
Either way, your garden’s about to become your favourite room in the house.
Have you checked out our other posts?
Above Ground Pool Vs Stock Tank
Leave a comment