Are indoor pools heated year-round?
Yes, almost universally. Indoor pools maintain temperatures of 28 to 30°C year-round, with heating costs included in rental rates (unlike outdoor pools, which charge heating surcharges). Pool houses typically maintain an air temperature 2 to 3°C warmer than the water temperature so you don’t get that run-for-the-towel feeling when you get out. This consistent temperature makes indoor pools far more usable than outdoor pools for UK bookings.
How much more do properties with indoor pools cost?
Expect to pay a 30 to 50% premium for a pool property over equivalent properties without pools. Weekend rates for houses sleeping 16 with indoor pools run to around £6,000 to £12,000, depending on the region and the property. The extra cost reflects the substantial property investment. Pool houses cost £80,000 to £200,000 or more to build and maintain. The cost is more than justified if you’re a family of water babies who will barely leave the pool. If you’re less bothered, you’ll find great value non-pool properties.
What other facilities do indoor pool properties typically have?
Pool properties often include hot tubs (frequently in the pool house or adjacent), changing rooms and showers, poolside seating and loungers, and sometimes saunas or steam rooms. Premium properties might also have gym equipment, games rooms, and outdoor terraces connecting to the pool house. Properties with serious pools tend to have high-quality facilities throughout. The pool is just another sign of a property’s overall excellence.
Do indoor pools work for lap swimming or just splashing?
Choose your pool property carefully depending on the kind of use you expect to make of the water. For moderate swimming, you’ll need a pool of at least 10 metres. For serious swimming, nothing smaller than 12 metres will work. Many country house pools are 8 to 10 metres, which is perfect for a splash about, a play, and a cool-off rather than a major training regime.
Families prioritise play-friendly pools, while fitness-focused groups specifically seek our bigger pools of 12 metres or more for proper, uninterrupted swimming. Time to whip out your butterfly stroke.