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Last updated: 10 February 2025
How much does a water feature cost?
Adding a water feature to your garden is a great way to transform your outdoor space. But how much does a water feature cost? In this guide, we'll talk you through what you can expect to pay for a garden water feature.
Fast Facts
A garden water feature can cost anywhere from £40 to £10,000+
The labour cost for installing garden water features ranges from £200 to £300+
Speak to local water feature specialists to get professional advice for your garden
The sight and sound of a water feature can be incredibly soothing, especially in the garden. However, the average cost of a water feature can vary massively.
If you’re looking to take the plunge with a water feature in your garden, this guide will talk you through the average water feature prices in the UK.
How much does a water feature cost?
| Example water feature type | Low Range | High Range |
|---|---|---|
| Small garden pond (includes labour) | £450+ | £900+ |
| Pondless waterfall 6ft | £3,600 | £10,000+ |
| Fountain | £40 | £300+ |
| Drilled rock water feature | £300 | £1,250+ |
| Rills | £650 | £5,000+ |
| Stainless steel water feature | £80 | £2,000+ |
| Resin water feature | £70 | 2500+ |
| Glass water feature | £600 | £10,000+ |
| Granite water feature | £175 | £2,900+ |
| Labour rate for installing water feature (Per day) | £200 | £300+ |
| Last updated: May 2024 Our costs are ballpark averages - get a local tradesperson to quote now | ||
The cost of water features can vary significantly, depending on factors such as the size, complexity of the design and the materials involved.
So, how much does it cost to have a water feature? To help you plan your budget, we've put together the average costs for different types of water features...
Stainless steel garden water feature costs
Average cost: £80 to £2,000+
Stainless steel water features are great if you’re looking to create a sleek, contemporary outdoor space.
Water features made from stainless steel create a wonderful mirrored effect. They reflect light, as well as the beautiful plants and flowers around them.
They’re also well-equipped to stand up to the unpredictable British weather!
Contact or pay a trade through Checkatrade and you’re covered by our 12-month guarantee of up to £1,000*
Resin water feature costs
Average cost: £70 to 2500+
Polyresin water features are ideal if you want to create a realistic rock or stone effect. These water features can be made into almost any shape or texture.
They’re also much cheaper and easier to install than using a real solid rock.
Glass water feature costs
Average cost: £600 to £10,000+
A glass water feature is a great option for patios and outdoor spaces with a cool, modern sense of style.
Glass not only looks incredibly impressive during the day but it can also be lit up at night. Why not try using colour-changing bulbs to make a real statement?
Granite/stone water feature costs
Average cost: £175 to £2,900+
If you want to create a classic outdoor space, a water feature made from real granite or stone is a great choice.
Stone garden water features come in all shapes, sizes, and styles to suit any garden.
Want some inspiration for your garden? Check out our top water feature garden ideas.
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Installation costs for garden water features
The cost of installing garden water features depends on the size and complexity of the job.
Here are some of the average prices for installing garden water features in the UK...
| Water feature installation costs | Unit | Average cost |
|---|---|---|
| Clearing vegetation and preparing area for installation | per m2 | £25 |
| Excavation works (if required) | per m3 | £150 |
| Sub base to water feature | per m2 | £20 |
| Paving (if required) | per m2 | £65 |
| Installation of water feature (labour only) | per day | £450 |
| Water supply | per m | £15 |
| Water installation | Ea | £150 |
| Electrical supply (armoured cable) | per m | £10 |
| Electrical installation and test | ea | £150 |
| Last updated: May 2024 Our costs are ballpark averages - get a local tradesperson to quote now | ||
How much does it cost to run a water feature?
Although most water features run on electricity, the costs are usually very low. Chances are you won't notice a huge increase in your energy bills.
But, how much does a water fountain cost to run exactly? A large water feature can typically have a 12W pump.
The average cost of running a pump of that size is less than 8p per day – if it's left running constantly.
You also shouldn’t use much extra water. Most water features only need topping up when the weather has been particularly hot or windy.
6 popular types of water feature
From ponds and streams through to fountains and waterfalls, there’s a water feature to suit every garden or patio and virtually every budget.
These are some of the most popular types of water features:
1. Ponds
When you think of a garden water feature, a pond is probably one of the first things that springs to mind.
A pond creates a lovely natural space in your garden, where you can enjoy the relaxing sound of gently trickling water.
Ponds are also a great option to encourage more wildlife in your garden – expect visits from frogs, toads, birds and insects. You could even give some fish a home in your pond!
Ponds are relatively easy to install. The process usually involves digging a hole that’s the right size and depth, lining it with a specialist pond liner and filling it with water.
If you want to take your pond to the next level, you can then introduce fountains, pumps, rockeries and decorative touches.
Of course, if you’re thinking of adding a water feature to your outdoor space and you have children or pets, you need to be very careful. A pond may not be the best option for you.
The cost of a pond will vary significantly depending on all sorts of factors, including the size, depth, existing conditions and more.
Smaller garden ponds typically cost anywhere from £450+ (including labour).
2. Self-contained water features
The best way to introduce a water feature to a small outdoor space is to use a self-contained water feature. They're practical, affordable, and won't take up too much space.
From water bowls to small self-contained fountains, there are plenty of options available to suit your outdoor space.
3. Pondless garden waterfalls
A pondless waterfall uses rocks and pebbles to create a garden waterfall and stream. Rather than cascading down into a pond, the water flows down through the rocks.
Once it hits the bottom, it is pumped back to the top and continues to flow in this cycle.
This is a great option if you have little ones or pets, as it allows you to enjoy all the benefits of a water feature, without the potential risks.
The cost of a pondless waterfall depends on a range of factors, including:
Size and type of waterfall
Quantity and quality of the parts you use
Layout of your garden
Amount of prep work needed
This can be a relatively expensive take on a water feature, as you’ll need plenty of rocks. You'll also need a heavy-duty pump to carry the water back up to the top of the waterfall.
Generally speaking, a small pondless garden waterfall will typically cost from £3,600.
4. Fountains
If you have limited space, a fountain could provide the perfect water feature for you.
Available in a huge range of types and sizes, there’s sure to be a fountain to complement your garden design and your budget.
For larger gardens, centrepiece fountains surrounded by a pool are popular, while self-contained, self-circulating fountains look impressive in smaller spaces.
A fountain is a great option if you want to hear the sound of water in your garden, regardless of how big your outdoor space is.
Fountains usually start from around £40 - £300+.
As well as the fountain kit, you’ll also have to budget for installation, preparation and a power outlet.
5. Drilled rock water features
A drilled rock water feature popular is ideal for small gardens. Using a pump to push water through the hole and out the top. It then runs gently down the side of the rock.
There are endless styles and sizes to choose from, including everything from limestone and slate to concrete.
Drilled rock water features typically range from £300 to £1,250+ excluding labour costs.
6. Rills
A more formal, structured type of stream, rills channel straight lines of water across a garden or outside space.
Shallow and narrow, they are often used to draw the eye to a pond, fountain, drilled rock or another type of water feature.
Rills work best in larger gardens and are relatively expensive, usually starting from £650.
Water feature system controls
There are various ways to control your water feature...
On/Off switch
Traditionally, water features have an on/off switch that controls the pump. This switch is usually located in the garden, close to the feature itself.
Remote control system controls
Remote control power switches for water features are becoming increasingly common.
Turning your water feature on and off from a distance is far easier to operate than having to walk across your garden to press the on/off switch.
This also makes the process safer as you won’t have to venture near the water in the dark.
Timers
Timers allow you to programme your water feature to come on at a certain time.
These controls are particularly useful for fountains, water features within ponds, and those with lights.
Again, these controls are safer and more convenient than on/off switches.
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Timeline for installation of a garden water feature
The time it takes to install your water feature will depend on the type of water feature you choose and your current garden set-up.
Here's a brief overview of the installation process for common garden water features...
Choose the type and size of water feature you want to install
Decide on where you want to position it
Carry out any work needed to prepare the ground
Install any cabling and pipework underground
Position your water feature and connect it to the electricity and water supplies
Sit back and enjoy the soothing sound of running water
The exact installation process will mainly depend on the type of water feature. Speak to local water feature experts for their professional advice.
Top tips for installing a water feature
Here are some of our top tips to bear in mind when installing a new garden water feature:
For small outdoor spaces, you may be limited on options but try to avoid overly sunny spots
Avoid having trees above your water feature, as any falling leaves could pollute the water
Make sure the water feature is in a safe, visible spot – especially if you have young children in your garden
Any cables should be buried deep enough to not be hit by gardening tools
All outdoor cabling and equipment should be fitted with a residual current device (RCD) to cut off electricity if a faulty is detected
Find the best water feature experts near you
Are you ready to get started with your water feature project? Then you've come to the right place.
At Checkatrade, we can help you find the best local tradespeople in your area. All our members have to pass up to 12 checks, so you know you can trust them.
Enter your postcode in the box below and search our online directory of experienced water feature specialists.
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Or, use our handy request a quote feature and we'll do the legwork for you. Give us a few details and we'll get multiple local tradespeople to contact you directly.
FAQs
Do I need planning permission for a water feature?
Many people think that planning restrictions only apply to work on a building. Certain changes to your grounds or gardens also require planning permission.
If your property is listed, you may need to secure planning permission for a larger water feature, such as a pond.
Otherwise, planning permission shouldn’t be required. However, it’s always best to check with your installer.
Why are water features so expensive?
There are certainly some expensive garden water features available. The high prices reflect the combination of preparation, installation work, and equipment cost.
If you're on a limited budget, you can opt for one of the much more affordable standalone options. Garden fountains start from as little as £40.
Is it expensive to run a water fountain?
No, the running costs of a water fountain are usually very low. You'll find that most water fountains will only increase your energy bills by a negligible amount.
Do water features use a lot of electricity?
Most domestic garden water features use very little electricity. A standard large water feature will have a pump of around 12W or similar.
Even if they're left on constantly, you won't use a lot of electricity to run them. And small water features will use even less electricity.
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