Thinking of adding a swimming pool? First question: indoor or outdoor?
It’s a classic debate, and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Indoor pools are great for all-weather swimming. Outdoor pools come with that fresh-air freedom.
But there’s also a third option that’s quietly making waves: the swimming pond.
Let’s break down the debate between an indoor vs outdoor swimming pool (vs swimming pond) so you can decide what suits your space, your lifestyle, and your idea of a perfect swim.
Indoor Swimming Pools
Indoor pools are like having your own private leisure centre; great in theory, but they come with a bit of homework. An indoor pool typically requires a dedicated pool room to house essential environmental control systems, heating and cooling systems, and pool heaters, all of which are necessary to maintain optimal swimming pool temperature, humidity, and air quality.
Pros:
The main benefit? You can swim any time you like, rain or shine, summer or winter. Indoor pools offer consistent water temperature and shelter from unpredictable British weather. They’re also great for fitness, family fun, or simply having a peaceful dip.
Cons:
- They’re pricey: not just the pool, but the building around it too. Think insulation, heating, and lighting, plus possibly planning permission. Indoor pool building requires a larger budget due to the complexity of the building and pool construction and the need for specialised systems like environmental control and heating.
- You’ll need good ventilation: without it, things can get damp and mouldy fast. Proper airflow and humidity control are a must.
- Doesn’t feel very natural: it’s practical, yes, but you miss out on that fresh-air, under-the-sky feeling. If nature is your thing, it might feel a bit… sterile.
Indoor pools are a solid choice if you want year-round swimming and don’t mind the higher costs and technical setup. But for a more natural, relaxed experience? There might be better options.
Outdoor Swimming Pools
An outdoor pool blends into your garden, making use of the whole surrounding garden space and providing more space for entertaining, relaxing, and hosting pool parties.
Pros:
With a pool outdoors, you can enjoy the benefits of being outside, bask in natural sunlight, and create a relaxing environment that enhances the outdoor experience.
Outdoor pools are often cheaper to install than indoor ones. You don’t need to worry about enclosing the space or adding ventilation systems, so the upfront swimming pool costs are usually lower for an outdoor one.
That said, you may still need to invest in heating or covers depending on how often—and when—you plan to use it.
Cons:
- Weather decides the schedule: let’s be real, British summers can be a bit… unpredictable. Your outdoor pool might get a few months of glory, then spend the rest of the year in hibernation.
- Nature can get involved: leaves, bugs, the odd visiting frog; open-air pools invite a bit of the wild in. A little maintenance keeps things in check, and for many, that’s part of the joy of owning one. Still, it does take some time and effort to keep everything looking pristine.
- Safety matters: got kids or curious pets? You’ll want to think about extras like fencing, covers, or alarms. These aren’t drawbacks so much as safe, necessary add-ons to help you relax and enjoy your pool time worry-free.
Outdoor pools are a great shout if you love swimming in the sun and want your garden to feel a bit more exciting. But they’re not always practical unless you’ve got the time (and patience) to keep them running smoothly.
Or… you could go for something that works with nature instead of fighting against it. Swimming pond, anyone?
The Wildcard: Swimming Ponds
Here’s where things get a bit more exciting.
If you love the idea of an outdoor pool but aren’t thrilled about the chemicals, constant cleaning, or the slightly clinical look of a standard pool, a swimming pond, sometimes known as a living pool, could be your ideal middle ground.
Swimming ponds give you all the fun of outdoor swimming with fewer downsides and a whole lot more character.
Why people love them:
- No chlorine, no harsh chemicals: gentle on your skin, your eyes, and the environment.
- Crystal-clear water: filtered naturally with plants and eco-friendly filter systems, not harsh treatments.
- Wildlife-friendly: enjoy the company of dragonflies, birds, and bees.
- Looks incredible: a swimming pond doesn’t stick out like a regular pool. It blends into your garden, more like a beautiful feature than a bright blue rectangle.
There are countless swim pond benefits, and perhaps one of the biggest wins? A swimming pond doesn’t have to look like a pool at all (unless you want it to). With the right layout, they feel like a private slice of the countryside, inviting, peaceful, and seriously photogenic. Most people won’t even realise it’s swimmable until you say so. And when you do, expect amazed reactions.
At Ponds by Michael Wheat, we’ve spent years perfecting our one-of-a-kind Michael Wheat System that balances beauty, water clarity, and low maintenance. No harsh additives. No daily testing kits. Just clean, natural water that’s safe to swim in and lovely to look at year-round.
So if you’re deciding between outdoor and indoor pools and wondering which suits you best… this third option might be the one you didn’t know you needed.
So… Which Should You Pick?
When choosing between an indoor or outdoor pool, consider key points such as your budget, access to the pool area, and how you plan to use the pool, whether for exercise, relaxation, or entertaining. These factors will help you make an informed decision that fits your lifestyle and property.
Ask yourself this:
- Do you want to swim all year, no matter the weather? Indoor pools allow for year-round use, while outdoor pools without heating are usually covered and closed during the colder months. Swimming ponds may be too cold for regular swims in winter, but they still offer the option for invigorating cold-water swimming if you’re up for it.
- Do you dream of a garden that looks like something out of a lifestyle magazine? Outdoor pools can add beauty in summer, but a swimming pond brings beauty in every season. Even if you’re not swimming in winter, you can still enjoy it as a living water feature, complete with wildlife and changing scenery.
- Do you love the idea of pool water but not so much the chlorine and upkeep? Swimming ponds keep things natural with water that is low-maintenance and free from harsh chemicals.
Indoor pools give you all-weather convenience, but they come with a serious price tag and a pretty clinical feel. Outdoor pools are easier on the wallet and have that sunshine appeal, but only when the weather behaves.
Then there’s the wildcard: the swimming pond vs swimming pool. And it’s not just a quirky alternative; it’s a game-changer.
Swimming ponds give you clear, harsh chemical-free water filtered naturally by clever systems and pond plants. They look stunning, blend right into your garden, and invite nature in rather than shutting it out. You still get to swim. You still get your wow factor. But without the harsh chemicals, steep energy bills, or that artificial blue-box look.
Ready to Make a Splash?
Choosing between indoor and outdoor pools is no small decision, but if you’re looking for something that’s beautiful, low-maintenance, and kind to both your skin and the planet, a swimming pond might just be the answer.
At Ponds by Michael Wheat, we don’t just build ponds; we create natural swimming experiences that feel like an extension of your garden.
Clean, harsh chemical-free water. Stunning design. Less hassle. More wow.
Curious about what’s possible in your garden?
Contact our team for a chat about your ideas. We’ll help you figure out what’s right for you and how to make it happen.