Imagine stepping into your own private wellness retreat without leaving your property. Over the years, we’ve installed everything from compact urban spas to sprawling garden wellness suites, and each project has shown us that a home spa is shaped by the owner’s vision and the character of their space.

What used to be considered luxury is now within reach. At The Hot Tub and Swim Spa Company, we design home spa design experiences that combine advanced technology with guidance drawn from hands-on installation experience. With our 0% APR finance options (T&Cs apply), you can bring your home spa design to life sooner than you think.

What Features Make a Home Spa Truly Exceptional?

A home spa design stands out when its design fits the property and the equipment offers innovative features, while the installation team’s proven expertise and reliable aftercare keep everything performing. We offer compact models for smaller gardens and expansive wellness suites for larger plots. Every home spa design is flexible and tailored so you get a setup that suits you.

How Can You Combine a Swim Spa and Sauna for the Ultimate Garden Spa?

Combining a Hydropool Elite Swim Spa with a sauna creates a powerful wellness pairing. Models such as the Hydropool Elite Swim Spa or the Family Fun Swim Spa provide a natural-feel swim and generous hydrotherapy seating. You might choose a side-by-side setup under a bespoke enclosure or place them in separate landscaped zones. The configuration depends on your preferences and available space.

Why Choose a Swim Spa Instead of a Pool or Gym Membership?

A swim spa gives you the freedom to swim any time without sharing lanes or travelling to a gym. An adjustable current lets you set the challenge. The Hydropool Self Cleaning Swim Spa, which features an integrated skimmer and advanced filtration system, offers precise temperature control so you can enjoy it in every season.

When I tried the swim spa, the stroke felt smooth and unrestricted, even in a compact space. The buoyancy took pressure off my joints but still delivered a rewarding workout. Swim spas adapt to training, recovery, relaxation, and family fun. Energy-efficient insulation lowers running costs while keeping the water warm, making them a smart part of any modern home spa design.

The Sauna: More Than Just Heat

From Scandinavian-style outdoor models to modern indoor steam rooms, our saunas suit a wide range of homes. Pairing sauna sessions with swim spa use creates contrast therapy that can support muscle recovery and may help improve sleep quality, circulation, and relaxation.

Regular sauna use may support heart health and muscle recovery, according to wellness research. This combination can form the centrepiece of your home spa design, reducing the need for frequent gym visits and making time at home more restorative.

How Do You Design a Private Spa Retreat at Home?

Your space and lifestyle shape the plan. A Hydropool Self Cleaning Hot Tub can sit beside a semi-sunken swim spa with a louvered sauna enclosure to form a multi-zone garden retreat. Compact urban spaces can combine a slimline infrared sauna with a 4-seat hot tub for maximum relaxation in limited space.

Adding built-in seating, fire pits, or lighting can take your home spa design from functional to unforgettable. Imagine steam curling from your sauna on a crisp winter day or the gentle ripple of your swim spa lit against the evening sky.

How Can a Home Spa Improve Your Health and Property Value?

A swim spa with a sauna can offer wellness benefits and property appeal. Swim spas may help manage joint discomfort, improve circulation, and support mental health through regular use. Saunas can encourage sweating, help relieve stress, and enhance relaxation.

An integrated home spa design can set your property apart and may add value. For rental or holiday properties, these features can command higher rates and attract more bookings. Finance options make these benefits accessible to more homeowners.

Swim Spa vs Pool: Space, Energy and Everyday Use

A swim spa suits a variety of homes. Installation is quicker, it requires less space, and running costs are lower thanks to efficient heating. Maintenance is straightforward, and modern covers keep water clean with less effort. You’ll use it more often when it’s ready all year as part of a planned home spa design.

What Are Some Home Spa Design Concepts for Different Properties?

In a townhouse, a compact swim spa set into a hardwood deck can be a striking feature. In a suburban garden, a pergola or louvered cover can add comfort and privacy. On a rural property, a semi-sunken spa with stone cladding can blend into the surroundings. Each design includes proper drainage, ventilation, and access for a lasting, seamless fit.

A Weekend in a Private Spa is Just Steps Away from Your Garden

Picture a Saturday morning swim followed by a sauna. Later, the family enjoys the spa for fun and light activity. Evenings are perfect for hosting friends. On Sunday, a gentle swim and sauna prepare you for the week ahead. With 0% APR finance (T&Cs apply), you can make this part of your lifestyle.

Ownership, Energy and Aftercare

We specify insulated shells, quality covers, efficient pumps, and smart controls for heating, filtration, and lighting. Our aftercare covers regular maintenance, water care advice, and prompt parts replacement to keep your home spa design performing.

Why Choose The Hot Tub and Swim Spa Company

We have won multiple Hydropool UK Awards, including Overall Retailer of the Year for our commitment to service and innovation. With more than three decades of experience and nearly 10,000 installations completed, our in-house, factory-trained team manages every stage from design and groundwork to installation and handover. Each project is tailored to the customer, ensuring the perfect fit for their home and lifestyle. Our comprehensive service plans include routine maintenance, water care guidance, and priority parts replacement to keep your spa in peak condition.

Feel the difference for yourself with a private wet test in our showroom. Try our swim spas, hot tubs, and saunas before you decide. Reserve your wet test today!

Many of our clients dream of adding a swim space at home but it’s a more complex decision than it first appears. As someone who’s helped hundreds of families navigate this choice firsthand, I can say this: it’s not just about cost or design. It’s about how you’ll use it, how much time you must maintain it, and what kind of value it brings to your everyday life. So, let’s walk through the practical differences between a traditional home swimming pool and a swim spa.

Is a home swimming pool worth the money?

A home swimming pool instantly changes the look and feel of your garden but it comes with long-term costs few people anticipate. Heating alone can cost over a thousand pounds a year, especially for uncovered outdoor pools.

Installation involves more than digging a hole and tiling it. Think drainage, structural work, edging, filtration, and, in many cases, planning permission. Much of that cost lies in the groundwork, which is easy to underestimate. For most UK homes, unless the pool is indoors or covered, the practical swimming window is often just 4–6 months.

You’ll also need to think about ongoing operational costs such as pumps, lights, cleaning equipment, covers, and chemicals. It’s not just the upfront investment. You’ll likely face repair bills and liner replacements over the years. Some homeowners even decide to decommission their home swimming pool because the upkeep outweighs the benefits.

Is a swim spa more affordable than a home swimming pool?

In most of the installations we’ve completed, swim spas come out ahead for cost-efficiency. These insulated, self-contained systems are built for year-round use. Once we’ve sorted the concrete base and electricals, most are up and running in just a few days.

They’re popular among people who want daily fitness or hydrotherapy, without the size or expense of a full pool. The systems we install often include hydrotherapy seating, adjustable current settings, and digital controls. Many of our clients tell us they use their swim spa more than they expected.

Compared to pools, running costs are easier to predict and manage. With modern insulation and smart heating settings, most swim spas run efficiently on a standard supply. You can even pair them with solar power or energy-saving timers to bring those costs down further.

How much space does each option really need?

Traditional pools require significant space, with few workarounds. You’ll usually need 8–10 metres minimum, plus room for access and safety barriers. That rules out a lot of urban or mid-sized gardens.

By contrast, we’ve installed swim spas in everything from roof terraces to courtyard gardens. A 4–6 metre unit is enough for a strong current, massage jets, and seating. And because it’s compact and insulated, you can place it closer to the house or inside an enclosure to extend use throughout the year.

If you’re short on space but still want a private swim solution, this makes a noticeable difference. One of our recent clients installed a swim spa beside their kitchen extension giving them a fully usable garden space without sacrificing outdoor dining or planting zones.

What hidden costs should you consider?

With pools, maintenance is a full-time consideration. Weekly checks, chemical balancing, cleaning, filter replacement it all adds up. And if you’re away often or don’t want to manage it, you’re looking at additional service costs.

Most swim spa models we recommend include self-cleaning functions, simple filter access, and remote control options. We’ve seen families and retired couples alike manage their units without needing to bring in external help. For anyone short on time, that’s a major selling point.

It’s also worth thinking about heating efficiency and water conservation. Pools often need frequent top-ups due to evaporation, particularly in warmer months. Swim spas, with their insulated covers and sealed systems, hold heat better and use less water overall.

Can you exercise in a swim spa?

Absolutely. We’ve had clients use their swim spas for everything from injury rehab to triathlon training. The adjustable current gives you a consistent swim without needing to turn or push off. It’s ideal for low-impact, full-body workouts.

Unlike a traditional pool where you need space for laps, the swim spa creates a stationary swimming experience. You’re swimming in place against resistance, which is easier on joints and perfect for interval training. Some models also include tether systems or rowing kits for cross-training.

Swim spas also support varied training styles. Some clients alternate between cardio sessions in the swim zone and recovery in the massage seats. Others use it under physiotherapist guidance for aquatic mobility exercises or arthritis relief. It’s flexible enough to support everything from family use to advanced training.

Which offers better long-term value?

Pools can be a statement feature. But in our experience, they’re not always used as much as expected. The novelty fades, and unless you’ve committed to regular maintenance and use, they can become a seasonal burden.

Most clients say their swim spa becomes part of their daily routine or evening hydrotherapy sessions. If you’re planning to stay in your home, using it daily matters more than how it looks in photos.

It’s also easier to relocate or upgrade a swim spa in future. Unlike permanent pools, swim spas aren’t fixed assets and can be relocated or upgraded with ease. That makes them appealing for homeowners who might extend, move house, or change how they use their space over time.

What do real homeowners say about the decision?

We’ve had customers who initially planned for a home swimming pool, only to switch after comparing quotes and assessing the upkeep involved. One London family we worked with opted for a swim spa after learning they’d need planning consent and extensive drainage work for a pool.

Others come in knowing they want something low-effort but high-use. Professionals with busy schedules, retirees with mobility goals, and families with growing kids all lean toward practicality. The feedback is consistent: “We get more use from it than we ever did with our old pool.”

Which option fits your life?

If you want something to impress at parties and don’t mind the extra upkeep, a traditional home swimming pool might be the right fit. But if your priority is something easy to maintain, great for year-round exercise, and simple to manage, a swim spa often ticks more boxes.

Before we recommend anything, we always ask: how do you want to use it and how often? From on-site assessments to tailored plans, our goal is to make sure what you install is something you’ll enjoy.

Need help deciding between a swim spa and a home swimming pool? Contact us to talk through your space, goals, and budget. We’ll help you make the right decision for your home.

For years, a swimming pool was the dream. But now, more UK homeowners are choosing swim spas and not just for space-saving or cost. It’s about getting more use, more flexibility, and better long-term value. As a company that’s installed hundreds of home hydrotherapy systems across every kind of outdoor setup, we’ve seen the shift firsthand.

What makes a swim spa more practical than a pool?

We’re often asked this by people considering both options. In short, a swim spa offers the core benefits of a pool continuous swimming, aquatic fitness, and relaxation but in a form that’s easier to install, run, and enjoy all year round.

Installing a pool in the UK isn’t always straightforward. You’ll likely need planning permission, drainage surveys, and a generous budget for excavation, landscaping, and ongoing heating costs. This type of compact aquatic system avoids most of that. It arrives pre-assembled, can sit above or partially in-ground, and works brilliantly on patios or reinforced decking.

And when it comes to maintenance? Our Hydropool models include self-cleaning filtration, energy-efficient insulation, and automatic chemical dosing. That means you’re not spending weekends balancing pH levels or draining down for winter.

How much space do I need for a swim spa?

This is one of the most common questions we get, and the answer depends on how you plan to use it. If it’s mainly for solo swimming or hydrotherapy, compact models under 4.5 metres can be ideal. If you want room for multiple users or a spa zone and swim lane, you’ll want something around 5 to 6 metres.

We help clients assess garden access, ground prep, electrical setup, and delivery clearance before recommending a model. In general, you’ll want around 60cm of clearance on one side for servicing access.

Will it hold up through a UK winter?

Yes. Every unit we install is designed for year-round use even in freezing temperatures. The key is thermal insulation, a secure cover, and reliable controls. We’ve installed aquatic training systems during snow and checked in months later to find them still running quietly and efficiently.

Some of our clients report higher usage in the winter than summer. The contrast between cold air and warm water is a big draw, especially after a long day. And compared to the costs of heating a full-size pool, these compact resistance pools are far more energy efficient.

Can I swim in one?

Absolutely. The adjustable current system creates a smooth, uninterrupted flow you swim against ideal for front crawl, breaststroke, or resistance walking. You set the pace. Whether you’re doing a recovery swim or pushing your limits, it’s up to you.

We’ve seen everyone from casual swimmers to triathletes use current-powered fitness spas for endurance training. It’s a favourite for those who want a low-impact alternative to pavement running or crowded gyms.

Why swimming in a swim spa is a the most powerful workout

Few home fitness setups offer such a complete and accessible workout. A swim spa allows you to combine cardio, resistance training, and rehabilitation in one space without the strain on joints or the need to visit a gym.

Water creates multidirectional resistance. So, every movement demands more from your muscles without the impact of weights or treadmills. Studies show aquatic resistance training helps build strength, improve flexibility, and support joint health, particularly in older adults or those recovering from injury.

Cardiovascular workouts are just as effective. With an adjustable current, you control intensity in real time, mimicking everything from a steady swim to interval sprints. The ability to shift gears without leaving your garden makes consistency easier and it’s often the missing link in long-term fitness.

We’ve worked with clients who use their swim spa for short 15-minute circuits before work, or extended recovery sessions after training. Others use it for hydrotherapy stretching, gentle jogging in place, or just to move when they can’t do high-impact activity anymore. It’s accessible, effective, and above all repeatable.

What about pain relief and rehab?

This type of home hydrotherapy system is excellent for injury recovery and joint care. The buoyancy reduces impact on knees, hips, and backs while the warm water improves circulation. We’ve had clients managing arthritis or post-surgery recovery use theirs as part of their daily movement routine.

The key is control: water temperature, jet pressure, and current speed can all be adjusted to suit your needs.

What are the running costs?

On average, you’re looking at around 60–70p a day, depending on your tariff and usage. We always advise clients to invest in a well-insulated cover and use eco-mode features overnight. Compared to the thousands per year it can take to heat and maintain a pool, a swim spa is a fraction of the cost.

And because it’s used more often thanks to its convenience and ease it tends to offer better value over time.

Why choose us to install your swim spa?

We’ve been supplying and installing swim spas for decades. Here’s what sets us apart:

• Proven systems: We only recommend models with tried-and-tested insulation, reliable jets, and minimal maintenance requirements.
• End-to-end service: No subcontractors. Our in-house engineers, electricians, and installers handle the full process.
• Real guidance: We’ll give you honest advice on whether your space is suitable and what will work long-term.
• Transparency: We break down every cost up front, from prep work to delivery and aftercare.
• Support you can count on: Over 90% of our spa parts are kept in stock, and we don’t disappear after the install.

Still deciding between a pool and a swim spa?

Think about how often you’ll use it, how much time you want to spend maintaining it, and how well it suits your lifestyle. All-season training spas let you train, stretch, and unwind without giving up half your garden or taking on major works.

Come see for yourself. Our Sidcup and Southampton showrooms have a range of swim spas running and ready to try. Bring your questions. We’ll give you straight answers.

Need honest advice about installing a swim spa at home? Visit us in person or give us a call. We’re here to help you make the right decision one that fits your life, not just your garden.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need planning permission?

Usually not. Swim spas often fall under permitted development, especially when above ground.

How long does installation take?

Typically, 1–2 days, once the base and electrics are ready. We’ll guide you through prep.

What does servicing involve?

We recommend regular filter checks and quarterly water changes. Most units remind you automatically.

Can I finance it?

Yes, we offer 0% APR finance on a range of models.

Can I use it daily?

Definitely. Many clients use their swim spa every day some for exercise, others for recovery, and plenty just to unwind.