The best paddling pools are just what you need for splashing fun in the sun with the kids this summer. Much cheaper than inflatable hot tubs (most of which have been sold out all summer anyway), paddling pools are a great way for the kids to enjoy the water without having to leave the garden. Paddling pools are also very useful for giving your dog a wash (obviously, not at the same time as the kids playing in it). Most of all, they are a family garden essential when the temperatures rise, as they are set to now. Browse our favourites below – all of them in stock and ready to ship for delivery this weekend.
When you're done reading, why not also browse hot tub deals to find something the whole family can enjoy?
- See our review of the Bestway Pool Set, if you want something bigger
The best paddling pools
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This fun and affordable paddling pool is our top pick: it's easy to set up in minutes, by simply inflating and filling it up. The size (1.22m x 25cm) is ideal for smaller gardens, and the fun printed design will delight children. The pool also comes with a repair patch, so you'll get more use out of it. The only drawback is that inflating the last ring is a bit of a chore as it deflates if you pause for breath.
This lovely rectangular pool from Chad Valley is made from high-quality, heavy-duty vinyl and has an impressive 450-litre capacity, although it's recommended to fill it up to no more than 400 litres. With a length of over two metres, it's large enough for your kids and their friends. The only thing we don't like is that a pump is not supplied and must be bought separately.
This paddling pool stands out from the rest thanks to its high walls, which makes it possible for the adults to join in the fun. And with a diameter of 2.4 metres, it's more than large enough for the whole family to enjoy. It does take a good while to fill (30 minutes), but it's very enjoyable to use after that.
Hardwearing and easy to store when not in use, this paddling pool from Yaheetech has fibreboard supports installed inside the pool walls for added durability. It's anti-skid, cold- and UV-resistant, which makes it suitable for giving your dog an outdoor bath year-round. It can be a tad tricky to empty out the last inch or so of water after most of it has emptied from the plug, but you'll get there with a bit of pracice.
This super cute paddling pool has summery colours and is made from durable, smooth and odour-free PVC. The best feature of this pool is the bottom drain that makes emptying the pool very easy. The pool holds up to 350 litres.