Cost to build a swimming pool in the UK | Price guide 2026

Most people around the UK crave their own swimming pool. Whether it’s for a spot of exercise before work, a place to laugh with family, or a calming escape from the digital world, pools are rightly seen as one of the most desirable ways to improve a home or any space.

With the benefits, both mental and physical, of having a swimming pool so clear, the cost is often the biggest sticking point.

The good news is that, at Signature Pools, our installations are bespoke, meaning we can fit the pool of your dreams around your own space and budget. The final cost of a pool is influenced by many factors, including material, heating options, size and additional extras, so you are in control of both the price and the product, making cost-effective, mid-range and luxury options all possible.

For a cheaper, above-ground pool, prices normally start at a few thousand pounds, while leading concrete options can be upwards of fifty thousand. In this blog, we’ll dive into what impacts the overall cost of a new pool in detail, as well as exploring the prices you can expect to pay.

What impacts the cost of a new pool?

Several factors influence the overall cost of a swimming pool. Understanding these helps you plan your budget and avoid surprises.

Material

The type of pool has the biggest impact on cost. Signature Pools offers a wide range:

• Concrete pools: High-end, durable, tiled finish
• Fibreglass one-piece pools: Quick to install, hard-wearing
• Block and liner pools: Cost-effective with strong structure
• Wooden pools: Ideal above-ground, charming and affordable

Concrete is the premium option, while wooden pools are the most budget-friendly.

Size

The size of your pool directly affects the initial cost. Larger pools require more excavation, materials, plumbing and labour, while smaller pools use fewer resources and can be installed in less time. Choosing the right size ensures your pool fits your space and budget perfectly.

Heating

Heating is a key factor in both initial and running costs, especially for outdoor pools in colder months or indoor pools. If you do want heating with your pool (you don’t have to, the choice is yours), your options include:

• Air source heat pumps: These are highly energy-efficient, extracting heat from the air to warm your pool. They maintain a comfortable temperature year-round and are ideal for longer swimming seasons in the UK.
• Solar systems: Use renewable energy from the sun to heat your pool. They have very low running costs and are environmentally friendly, making them perfect for outdoor pools in sunny periods.
• Gas heaters: Burn natural gas or LPG to heat water quickly. They are ideal for pools that need rapid heat-up, on-demand swimming, or commercial facilities where guaranteed temperature is essential.

Efficient heating systems can reduce energy use and keep your pool comfortable throughout the year.

Purpose and design

Your pool’s design affects labour and specification costs. Rectangular pools are economical, while freeform pools, integrated spas, beach entries or waterfalls require extra work, increasing the cost slightly.

Location

Access, drainage and conservation area restrictions can influence labour, groundworks and approvals. A detailed site survey ensures costs are accurate from the start.

Ground conditions

Soil type, water table and drainage affect excavation and structural work. Challenging conditions may require additional reinforcement or plumbing solutions.

Above-ground vs inground

Whether a pool is above-ground or inground can also impact the cost. Above-ground timber pools are quicker and cheaper to install. Inground pools may need more excavation and groundworks, but material choice, size and heating have a bigger influence on the overall cost.

Additional extras

Optional features can add to the project, but also create a more luxurious experience:

• LED lighting and enclosures
• Steam rooms and spas
• Automatic covers
• Waterfalls or beach entries
• Patios, landscaping, and decking
• Advanced filtration to reduce algae growth and chlorine use

What is the cost to build a new swimming pool UK?

Here’s a 2026 guide for new, professionally installed pools:

Pool type	Typical cost range
Concrete pool	£45,000 – £110,000+
Fibreglass one-piece pool	£28,000 – £75,000+
Block and liner pool	£22,000 – £55,000+
Wooden pool	£2,000 – £20,000+

Concrete pools

Durable and fully bespoke, concrete pools offer complete freedom in shape, depth and finish. Perfect for indoor or outdoor pools, they suit homeowners seeking a long-term, low-maintenance investment with features like integrated spas, waterfalls or tiled finishes.

Fibreglass one-piece pools

Pre-formed fibreglass pools install quickly and have smooth, hard-wearing surfaces that resist algae and reduce chlorine use. Ideal for mid-range budgets or smaller gardens, they’re ready to swim in soon after installation, indoors or outdoors.

Block and liner pools

Block and liner pools use a sturdy block structure with a vinyl or PVC liner. They offer flexibility, durability and a wide range of colours or patterns, making them great for families wanting a robust garden pool with optional features at a lower cost than concrete.

Wooden pools

Above-ground or semi-inground, wooden pools are the most affordable option. Quick to install, they create a charming garden swimming space and can include liners, filtration, heating and decking for comfort without heavy groundworks. These blend in very well in nature, perfect if you’re lucky enough to be surrounded by trees, or in our beautiful South West countryside!

Bespoke pools from Signature Pools

Since 2008, we have been designing and building high-quality pools for both residential and commercial clients, from homeowners to hotels, leisure centres and hydrotherapy facilities.

We offer:

• Outdoor and indoor pools
• Concrete, liner, fibreglass and wooden pools
• Energy-efficient heating systems
• Filtration and maintenance systems to reduce running costs
• Optional extras like steam rooms and spas
• Ongoing servicing, repairs, general maintenance and advice

Modern heating solutions can reduce energy use by up to 60% compared with older systems, making pools much more affordable to operate.

FAQs

Are swimming pools expensive to maintain?
Maintenance depends on size, heating and usage. Modern filtration, insulation and energy-efficient heating make costs manageable.

Can a swimming pool be built in a conservation area?
Yes, with planning considerations. We guide clients through permissions to ensure compliance.

Are indoor pools more expensive than outdoor pools?
Indoor pools cost more due to ventilation and dehumidification, but allow warm swimming year-round.

How long does it take to heat a pool?
Air source heat pumps heat efficiently, while gas heaters provide rapid results.

Who are Signature Pools?

We are Signature Pools & Leisure, a family-run, award-winning pool specialist serving Devon, Cornwall, Somerset, Dorset and Bristol. We work with homeowners, hotels, holiday parks, fitness centres, schools and hydrotherapy facilities.

From design and installation to heating, maintenance and long-term care, we deliver stress-free, premium pool projects that are bespoke to you.

Call us on 01626 333414
Email info@signaturepoolsuk.com

If you want a new pool that’s high-quality, affordable and tailored to your home, we’d love to guide you from concept to completion.