Need to cool off? These affordable paddling pools will do the trick when the heatwave hits

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With the weather warming up, and temperatures set to soar even higher by the weekend, it has us all dreaming of balmy summer days spent relaxing poolside or sunbathing on the beach.

While the pandemic may have halted our plans to jet off to sunny resorts for a relaxing holiday, it hasn’t stopped us from recreating our very own all-inclusive resort at home.

All we need to do is dust off the BBQ, wheel out the drinks trolley for the adults, blow up the paddling pool, and close our eyes to be transported to any exotic country in the world when the heatwave hits.

Some may think inflatable pools are just for children, but teens as well as adults can also enjoy a dip in the water to cool down when the sun's out.

There are a whole host of paddling pools available to buy for your garden, to suit all ages and budgets.

While some may prefer shallow designs and smaller pools for little ones, others may be looking to splash out (yes, pun intended) on something a little bigger.

We have found the top-rated paddling pools to suit everyone’s needs, so there's no excuse not to bask in the sun’s rays this weekend - and all summer long for that matter.

Shop 6 of the best paddling pools

Summer Waves Inflatable Octagonal Family Paddling Pool | £50 from John Lewis & Partners

The Summer Waves pool is a three-tier paddling pool, in an octagonal shape, to accommodate more people.

It also has four drinks holders so you wont need to move a muscle when enjoying a dip. The best part is, self adhesive material is also included to fix any small holes that may appear.

Intex Swim Centre Family Pool with Seats | £45.19 (Was £49.99) from Amazon

This family pool is one of Amazon’s top-rated paddling pools, with one customer hailing it as “the best thing I ever bought.”

The garden item features inflatable seats, as well as two drinks holders, head rests and a drain plug in the floor.

Intex 59416NP Crystal Blue Three Ring Inflatable Paddling Pool | £5.99 from Amazon

Those who are looking for something a little smaller for their little ones, or their pets, to enjoy in the sunshine, this inflatable pool may be for you.

It boasts a sturdy side wall made from three rings, and measures 45 inches in diameter and 10 inches deep.

One customer wrote: “Bought this as an alternative to another inflatable we have that has far too many sections, as we wanted something much quicker to set up. Little girl loves it, and it's great for purpose all round.”

Chad Valley Ocean Lagoon Pool | £22 from Argos

The Chad Valley Ocean Lagoon Pool has received rave reviews from customers.

The nine-foot long design holds up to 500 litres, is made from pre-tested vinyl and is brightly decorated with animal print around the edge.

Chad Valley Rectangular Paddling Pool | £18 from Argos

Those looking for a more classic pool will go head over heels for the Chad Valley Rectangular Paddling Pool.

This six-foot long pool features extra-wide side walls as well as an L-beam construction for extra sturdiness, plus it comes with a repair kit and interconnecting nozzles to make it easier to erect.

Bestway My First Frame Pool | £29.99 from Very

For those who are looking for a bigger paddling pool for all the family to enjoy, the Bestway is for you.

This classic design is made from a rust-resistant metal frame, which measures 152 cm in height and width, but also offers a plug to help drain the contents after use.

Shoppers can’t get enough of this buy, as one review read: “This pool is great, I normally buy a new inflatable every year. But this one is perfect, has a plug for easy emptying. Nice and sturdy too.”

The investment option: 5-Person 1-Jet Inflatable Spa | £89.04 from Wayfair

For those looking to enjoy a dip in the pool with a group this is for you.

Wayfair’s inflatable pool is made from durable three-layer material, including PVC and polyester mesh. It is easy to inflate and deflate for when you want to store away.

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