Best paddling pools: 5 top buys for splashing about in the garden

These best paddling pools will provide hours of fun for the kids – and a couple are great for giving the dog a bath, too

Best paddling pools
(Image credit: Amazon)

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? 

The best paddling pools

Why you can trust Real Homes Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.

Bestway Ocean Life Kids Paddling Pool

(Image credit: Amazon)

1. Bestway Ocean Life Paddling Pool

The best paddling pool

Specifications

Size: 1.22m x 25cm
Capacity : 140 litres
Age: 3 years+

Reasons to buy

+
Affordable
+
Soft
+
Cute unisex design

Reasons to avoid

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Final ring can be a chore to inflate

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.

  • Buy the Bestway Ocean Life Paddling Pool

Chad Valley paddling pool

(Image credit: Argos)

2. Chad Valley Paddling Pool

Best rectangular paddling pool

Specifications

Capacity: 450 litres
Size: 211 x 46cm
Age: 6+

Reasons to buy

+
High-quality material
+
Large capactiy

Reasons to avoid

-
Pump not supplied

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. 

  • Buy the Chad Valley Paddling Pool

Bestway 8ft Quick Up Round Family Pool

(Image credit: Argos)

3. Bestway 8ft Quick Up Round Family Pool

Best paddling pool with height

Specifications

Capacity: 2300 litres
Size: 244 x 66cm
Age: 6+

Reasons to buy

+
Large, with high walls
+
Huge capacity

Reasons to avoid

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Takes a while to fill

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.

  • Buy the Bestway 8ft Quick Up Round Family Pool

Yaheetech PVC Foldable Pet Dog Paddling Pool

(Image credit: Amazon)

4. Yaheetech PVC Foldable Pet Dog Paddling Pool

Best paddling pool for dogs

Specifications

Capacity: 400 litres
Size: 160 x 30cm
Age: Not provided - best for pets

Reasons to buy

+
Anti-slip
+
UV and cold resistant
+
Fibreboard supports for sturdiness

Reasons to avoid

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Emptying and folding for storage takes a bit of skill

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.

  • Buy the Yaheetech PVC Foldable Pet Dog Paddling Pool

lenbest Watermelon Inflatable Paddling Kids Pool

(Image credit: Amazon)

5. lenbest Watermelon Inflatable Paddling Kids Pool

The best paddling pool for design: jolly and summery

Specifications

Capacity: 360 litres
Size: 124 x 30 cm
Age: 3+

Reasons to buy

+
High quality – no leaks
+
Fun design

Reasons to avoid

-
Slightly more expensive than some others

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. 

  • Buy the lenbest Watermelon Inflatable Paddling Kids Pool 

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Anna is a professional writer with many years of experience. She has a passion for contemporary home decor and gardening. She covers a range of topics, from practical advice to interior and garden design.