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Jump into these backyard pool ideas for 2026

There’s a pool out there for every outdoor space. Above-ground pools for a pop-up solution, lap pools for fitness or the ever-popular in-ground family pool with crafted curves to fit your backyard. To help find the best backyard pool we’ve pulled together a few that suit different budgets, yard sizes and quality to get you back into the swim of things.

Above-ground swimming pools

You can take the pool with you or move it to another spot in your yard and even build a patio or seating area around it as a long‑term project. While some land types can’t be excavated easily, these pools offer flexibility, and you can even grab one at the last minute for an instant cool‑off.

Architecturally designed pools

Geometric, sophisticated and functional, these pools are impressive and comfortable. If you’re working through a new build, it’s the perfect time to plan for a pool to be designed at the same time. It'll be important to involve your landscape architect in your pool plans so your garden and landscaping can be consistent and clean.

Purpose-built lap pools for health and fitness

Swimming is a great full body workout, and a lap pool is built for those who opt for water over a gym session any day of the week. Long and narrow, lap pools are increasingly popular choices for urban homes with small backyard areas, allowing for one or two people to swim continuous laps. Lap pools make a great feature of backyards with a long, narrow nook or can be added on to the end, or side, of your existing pool build should you require a mix of styles. For high-end properties and budgets, you could even look at an endless pool system if you need to just keep swimming.

In-ground swimming pools for the whole family

Perhaps the most popular of backyard pool, nothing quite evokes the feeling of a BBQ party like a relaxing float, beverage in hand and kids laughing and playing in the pool. This style of pool has soft curves that blend well with the natural layout of your garden and yard. In-ground pools should be your first port of call; they can be concrete-based or even pre-built from fiberglass. 

Don't take the plunge without pool shade protection

No matter which direction you go with your pool, remember to consider the surroundings. You’ll need a great patio with adequate seating, UV protective shade and appropriate safety features. 

Remember to include a pool fence in your budget it's often legislated and is important to protect children from the pool. Pool fences can be stylish, match your home and provide the protection you need. Remember to purchase seating and dining options that match the overall design of your space and don’t forget a cantilever outdoor pool umbrella from Shadowspec.  

Shadowspec's Outdoor cantilever umbrellas make perfect pool umbrellas.

Cover your poolside lounger whilst you're relaxing and rotate it over your pool when it's time for a dip.