What Sizes Are Above Ground Pools?

Ever wondered what size above ground pool actually fits your garden without turning it into a swampy mess? Short answer: they range from 3.6m to 6m round, with even bigger options in oval and rectangular styles.
Stick with us—because finding the perfect pool size is easier (and more fun) than you think.

Common Shapes and Their Standard Dimensions

Round Above Ground Pools

Popular Diameters (e.g., 12 ft, 15 ft, 18 ft, 21 ft, 24 ft, 27 ft, 30 ft, 33 ft)

Round pools are one of the easiest options to install—and one of the most popular across the UK. You’ll find them in standard sizes ranging from 12 ft (around 3.6m) up to a spacious 33 ft (roughly 10m).

They’re brilliant for squeezing into modest gardens without sacrificing splash space. Got two kids, a dog who loves water, and a garden gnome collection? A 15 or 18 ft pool might just keep everyone happy.

Ideal for All-Around Play and Efficient Water Circulation

There’s a reason round pools are often the go-to for families. The shape encourages easy movement of water (hello, low-maintenance filters!) and offers a natural play zone for kids of all ages.

Whether it’s floating about with a cuppa or watching the kids cannonball, round pools are great for relaxed, all-round fun.

Oval Above Ground Pools

Common Length x Width (e.g., 12x24 ft, 15x30 ft, 18x33 ft, 21x41 ft)

Oval pools stretch out your swim space—perfect for long, narrow gardens. Standard sizes often include 12x24 ft and 18x33 ft, giving you more room to paddle, float, or freestyle your way across.

They also sit better in corners or along fence lines, helping you make the most of your layout without hogging the whole garden.

Better for Lap Swimming and Defined Play Areas

These are ideal for more structured use. Think: laps on one end, loungers on the other. They’re great if you’ve got teens who want space to splash about and you want somewhere to chill with your feet in the water.

It’s a layout that keeps everyone happy—and avoids water wars between age groups!

Rectangular Above Ground Pools (Less Common, Often Semi-Inground)

Available Dimensions and Primary Uses (e.g., 12x20 ft, 16x32 ft)

Not the most common style, but rectangular pools have their fans—especially if you want a classic swimming experience. Sizes start around 12x20 ft and can go up to 16x32 ft or larger.

They’re often seen as semi-inground installations, giving a sleeker, more built-in look.

They’re brilliant for serious swimmers, pool workouts, or if you’re chasing that "holiday villa in the Med" vibe without the passport.

Pool Wall Heights and Water Volume

Typical Wall Heights (e.g., 48 inches, 52 inches, 54 inches)

Most above ground pools come with wall heights of 48, 52, or 54 inches (that’s about 1.2m to 1.37m). It doesn’t sound like a big difference—but trust us, it can be the decider between “paddling pool” and “pool party.”

How Wall Height Affects Usable Water Depth

Here’s the thing—usable water depth is always a bit less than wall height. Around 6 to 10 inches less, to be exact.

That’s because you’ll need some space below the top to prevent overflow and to fit the skimmer in properly. So, a 52-inch wall might give you about 42 inches of swim depth.

Understanding Gallon Capacity for Different Sizes

Larger pools mean more water—and more water means a bigger filter, more chlorine, and longer filling times.

It’s worth checking your pool’s capacity upfront. Knowing how many gallons or litres it holds helps with budgeting and keeping maintenance in check. No one wants to be surprised by a water bill the size of a small holiday.

Choosing the Right Size: Key Considerations

Assessing Your Available Backyard Space

Measuring the Installation Area (Including Required Setbacks from Structures)

First things first: measure your garden space properly. That means looking at the actual size of the pool plus the recommended clearance.

You’ll need at least a metre or so around all sides—especially for filters, steps, and fences. That extra breathing room makes life easier (and safer).

Accounting for Equipment, Decks, and Walkways

Planning to add decking? Want to leave space for a sunlounger or two?

Think about more than just the pool itself. Filters, ladders, storage boxes, and pool toys all take up room. It adds up fast!

Sun Exposure and Landscape Integration

Try to place your pool where it gets the most sunshine. That’ll help naturally warm the water and reduce heating costs.

Also, think about shade, nearby trees (hello, falling leaves!), and how the pool fits into your overall garden look.

Matching Pool Size to Intended Use and Family Needs

Number of Swimmers and User Demographics (Children, Adults)

If you’ve got little ones, you might be fine with a 12 or 15 ft pool. But if your teenagers are inviting their mates over, you’ll want something larger—like a 21 or 24 ft round option.

Always plan for your maximum crowd. It’s better to have too much space than not enough.

Primary Activities (Lounge, Play, Exercise/Laps, Entertainment)

Love to float and relax? A smaller pool with comfy steps might suit you.
Need somewhere to play water volleyball or do laps? Go bigger, and maybe choose an oval or rectangular shape.

Design the pool around your lifestyle—not just what looks good online.

Future Growth of Your Family and Pool Usage

Are your kids growing fast? Got more on the way? Planning to use the pool year after year?

Think ahead. If you size up a bit now, you won’t have to upgrade later when paddling turns into proper swimming.

Budget and Maintenance Implications of Size

Initial Purchase and Installation Costs

Bigger pools, bigger price tag—simple as that.
From delivery and base prep to pumps and filters, every added foot bumps the cost.

That said, it’s often worth it if it means getting a pool that truly fits your needs.

Increased Water Volume (More Chemicals, Longer Filtration Times)

More water = more chlorine, longer pump runs, and more energy used overall.

Plan for a chemical routine that suits your pool size. An automatic chlorinator or salt system might be worth considering if you're going big.

Heating Costs and Energy Consumption

In the UK, heat retention matters. Larger pools take longer to heat and lose warmth quicker.

Using a solar cover helps—but be prepared for higher heating bills if you’re planning to swim through spring and autumn.

Time and Effort Required for Cleaning and Maintenance

Here’s the truth: small pools are easier to keep clean. Big pools? Not so much.

You’ll need more time (or better tools) to skim, vacuum, and test your water. A robotic cleaner could save your weekends—just saying!

Final Splash

Finding the right above ground pool size isn’t just about dimensions—it’s about lifestyle. Think about your garden, your family, and how you’ll actually use the space.

Measure well, plan smart, and go for a size that brings years of fun—without turning your garden into a soggy regret.

Ready to turn that patch of grass into a proper summer haven? Now you’ve got the know-how to make it happen.

Have you checked out our other posts?

Can Above Ground Pools Have A Shallow End?

Can Above Ground Pools Have Different Depths?

How Deep Are Above Ground Pools?

Can You Jump Into Above Ground Pools?