Best Water Butts & Rainwater Harvesting UK (2026)
Water butts, rain diverters and rainwater collection kits for UK gardens.
8 products reviewed in this subcategory
Popular in this category
£31.95
Pros
- 100LT SLIMLINE WATER BUTT GN334
Cons
- Full specification not confirmed on the listing — check before buying
£44.99
Pros
- 𝐒𝐋𝐈𝐌𝐋𝐈𝐍𝐄 𝐃𝐄𝐒𝐈𝐆𝐍 - This slimline water butt features a sleek and space-saving design, perfect for homes with limited garden space. Easily fit this water barrel with tap into tight areas and enjoy the benefits of natural rain water collection.
- 𝐂𝐎𝐌𝐏𝐋𝐄𝐓𝐄 𝐊𝐈𝐓 𝐈𝐍𝐂𝐋𝐔𝐃𝐄𝐃 - Our garden water butt comes with a stand, lid, water butt tap, and rainwater downpipe diverter kit (with flexible pipe), providing everything you need to start collecting rainwater. The butt is pre-threaded to easily install the tap.
- 𝐄𝐅𝐅𝐈𝐂𝐈𝐄𝐍𝐓 𝐑𝐀𝐈𝐍𝐖𝐀𝐓𝐄𝐑 𝐂𝐎𝐋𝐋𝐄𝐂𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 - Utilize our diverter to efficiently channel rainwater from your downpipe into the 100L water tank. This water butt connector kit is designed to maximize water collection, thereby reducing your water bills.
- 𝐄𝐂𝐎-𝐅𝐑𝐈𝐄𝐍𝐃𝐋𝐘 𝐌𝐀𝐓𝐄𝐑𝐈𝐀𝐋𝐒 - Constructed from recycled plastic, our slimline water butt not only conserves water but also supports environmental sustainability. This durable material ensures long-lasting use while being gentle on our planet.
Cons
- Full specification not confirmed on the listing — check before buying
#3 Pick
Bowers Bargains Water Butt with Tap and Lockable Lid, 210L Capacity, BlackCurrently unavailable
Pros
- CAPACITY: Large 210-litre water storage capacity, perfect for collecting and storing rainwater for garden use throughout the year
- SECURE DESIGN: Features a lockable lid to prevent accidents, keep out debris, and maintain water quality
- CONVENIENT ACCESS: Includes a built-in tap for easy water dispensing and controlled flow when watering plants
- DURABLE CONSTRUCTION: Made from robust black plastic material that's weather-resistant and built to last
Cons
- No overflow prevention feature.
#4 Pick
Made In The UK Water Butt, 210L Large Capacity, Black, with Tap and Lockable Lid£49.99
Pros
- CAPACITY: Large 210-litre water butt perfect for collecting and storing rainwater for garden use throughout the year
- SECURE DESIGN: Features a lockable lid to prevent accidents and keep collected water clean from debris and insects
- CONVENIENT TAP: Includes an easy-to-use tap for controlled water dispensing when watering plants or filling watering cans
- DURABLE CONSTRUCTION: Made from robust black plastic material designed to withstand outdoor weather conditions
Cons
- Lockable lid may restrict quick access.
- Size and weight might be cumbersome to move.
£59.99
Pros
- CAPACITY: Large 210-litre water storage capacity, perfect for collecting and storing rainwater for garden use throughout the year
- SECURE DESIGN: Features a lockable lid to prevent accidents, keep out debris, and maintain water quality
- CONVENIENT ACCESS: Includes a built-in tap for easy water dispensing and controlled flow when watering plants
- DURABLE CONSTRUCTION: Made from robust black plastic material that's weather-resistant and built to last
Cons
- No filter prevents small debris entry.
#6 Pick
Bowers Bargains Water Butt Rainwater Diverter Filler Kit, Black, Plastic, for 65mm Square and 68mm Round Downpipes, 500mm Hose- Black
£9.95
Pros
- UNIVERSAL COMPATIBILITY: Fits both 68mm round and 65mm square downpipes, making this rainwater diverter kit suitable for most standard drain pipe configurations.
- COMPLETE KIT: Includes a 500mm flexible hose and all necessary fittings to divert rainwater from your downpipe directly into your water butt with ease.
- DURABLE PLASTIC CONSTRUCTION: Made from sturdy black plastic material, this diverter kit is built to withstand outdoor conditions and provides long-lasting performance.
- EASY INSTALLATION: Simple plastic construction allows for straightforward fitting to your existing downpipe.
Cons
- No additional support for heavy rain.
About water butts & rainwater harvesting
Water butts and rainwater harvesting systems are essential tools for any UK gardener aiming to reduce water usage and create a sustainable garden environment. These products collect rainwater from rooftops or other surfaces, storing it for later use in watering plants and gardens. Before making a purchase, UK shoppers should consider several factors: the size of their garden, the type of material used, and their budget. A large garden may require multiple water butts to manage water collection effectively, whereas smaller spaces might only need one or two. The choice of material also matters; plastic water butts are lightweight, affordable, and come in a variety of sizes, while galvanised steel butts offer durability with a slightly higher upfront cost.
Budget is another crucial consideration as different materials and features can vary significantly in price. For instance, more advanced rainwater harvesting systems may include filtration systems or pumps to ensure the water collected is clean and usable for irrigation. Additionally, it’s important to consider seasonal timing—rainfall patterns are often unpredictable, so having a larger capacity water butt can help manage dry spells effectively.
A common mistake is underestimating the importance of location when placing a water butt; ideally, they should be positioned in areas where rainwater flows freely into them without obstruction. Another frequent oversight is not regularly cleaning the water butt to prevent algae growth and ensure the water remains clean for plant use. It’s also important to note that while rainwater harvesting can significantly reduce mains water usage, it's crucial to check local regulations regarding the use of harvested rainwater, particularly in terms of watering lawns or driveways.
Incorporating a water butt into your garden not only helps you save money on water bills but also contributes to environmental sustainability by reducing demand on municipal supplies. Rainwater is typically free from chlorine and other additives found in tap water, making it ideal for plant growth and less harmful to wildlife when used in ponds or birdbaths. By integrating a rainwater harvesting system into your garden, you’re taking a proactive step towards creating a more environmentally conscious outdoor space that benefits both your plants and the local ecosystem.
Where to go next
FAQ
What size water butt should I choose for my garden?
Choose a size based on your garden's needs; a small garden might need a 250-400 litre capacity, while larger areas may require up to 1000 litres.
Can I use any type of water butt in my garden?
Yes, but ensure it’s designed for outdoor use and made from durable materials like plastic or fibreglass.
How much does a typical water butt cost in the UK?
Prices range from around £30 to over £150 depending on size, features like lid type, and material quality.
What are some key maintenance tasks for water butts?
Regularly clean the filter and check for leaks. Empty the water butt when it’s full or during dry periods.
How do I connect a water butt to my downpipe?
Use a diverter kit which attaches to your existing guttering, allowing rainwater to flow into the water butt instead of directly through the drain.
Are there any safety considerations for using water butts?
Ensure all parts are securely attached to avoid leaks or accidents. Keep the water butt out of reach of children and pets.
Do I need a permit to install a water butt in my garden?
No, you typically don’t need planning permission unless your setup significantly alters your property’s appearance or drainage system.
Is there an ideal time to start using a water butt?
You can start using a water butt immediately after installation. However, it’s particularly useful during rainy seasons like autumn and winter.
What are some common mistakes when choosing a water butt?
Choosing one that’s too small for your garden size or not properly sized to the downpipe can lead to inefficiency and overflow issues.
Can I use harvested rainwater on my plants?
Yes, but always check local regulations as some areas require treated rainwater before using it on plants, especially in vegetable gardens.