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10 Best Rain Barrels 2025 in the UK

Harcostar 227 litre Grey Water Butt Kit inc. stand and downpipe fittings

Capacity: 227 litres
Material: Plastic
Design: Round
Overflow and Spigot: Overflow, Spigot for easy access
Additional Features: Downpipe fittings
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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

100L Black Slimline Space Saver Water Butt Kit Complete with Stand, Lid and Diverter Rain Saver For Gardens & Decking Areas

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,268
Design
Additional Features
Design
The water butt fits neatly into small spaces, making it perfect for compact areas next to a greenhouse.
Additional Features
Easy to set up and use, though some users found linking to the gutter downpipe requires a bit of creativity.

The 100L Black Slimline Space Saver Water Butt Kit is an excellent choice for anyone looking to conserve water and save on their water bills. Its capacity of 100 litres is sufficient for small to medium-sized gardens, making it a practical option for watering plants, cleaning equipment, or even washing your car. Made from durable plastic, it promises longevity and can withstand outdoor conditions. The black color adds a sleek look, which can blend well with various garden designs and decking areas.

Its slimline design is particularly beneficial for users with limited space, allowing for easy placement in compact areas without being too obtrusive. The included stand and diverter make it a complete and ready-to-use kit, simplifying the setup process. The stand elevates the water butt, making it easier to access the spigot for water retrieval. Additionally, the diverter ensures efficient collection of rainwater from your downpipe, helping to maximize water recovery.

However, being made of plastic, it may not be as sturdy as other materials like metal, and some users might find it less aesthetically pleasing. The capacity, while decent, might not be enough for larger gardens or extensive water needs. This water butt kit is a functional and cost-effective solution for those looking to manage their water usage more efficiently.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,268
Design
Additional Features
Design
The water butt fits neatly into small spaces, making it perfect for compact areas next to a greenhouse.
Additional Features
Easy to set up and use, though some users found linking to the gutter downpipe requires a bit of creativity.
#2

British Made 100L Litre Slimline Garden 3 Piece Water Butt Rain Tank Kit With Stand & Filler Strong Plastic

Rating
9.6
Capacity
Material
Design
Capacity
Ensuring the barrel is perfectly level on firm ground is essential to support the full 100 kg weight when filled and prevent sinking.
Material
The rain barrel is remarkably sturdy and reliable, with multiple units used successfully.
Design
Its slim, tall design fits perfectly in narrow garden spaces without compromising capacity.
Overflow and Spigot
Achieving a watertight seal on the tap involves using PTFE tape and precise fitting, since the tap’s design doesn’t rely on compression alone.
Additional Features
Installation is straightforward with the included stand and downpipe filler kit, making setup hassle-free.

This British Made 100L Slimline Garden Water Butt is a solid choice if you need a moderate amount of rainwater storage without taking up too much space. Its 100-litre capacity is enough for general garden watering tasks like watering plants or washing tools. The slim and tall design (about 125 cm high but only 40.5 cm wide) makes it especially suitable for smaller gardens or narrow spots.

Made from durable plastic, it’s lightweight (around 6 kg) but strong enough to withstand outdoor conditions. The kit includes a lockable lid, which helps keep debris and insects out, and a water exit tap that makes it easy to access the stored water. The four-part stand and downpipe filler kit simplify installation and help connect the barrel directly to your rainwater system.

This rain barrel provides a practical and space-saving solution for gardeners seeking an easy-to-install water collection system with a decent capacity and convenient features.

Rating
9.6
Capacity
Material
Design
Capacity
Ensuring the barrel is perfectly level on firm ground is essential to support the full 100 kg weight when filled and prevent sinking.
Material
The rain barrel is remarkably sturdy and reliable, with multiple units used successfully.
Design
Its slim, tall design fits perfectly in narrow garden spaces without compromising capacity.
Overflow and Spigot
Achieving a watertight seal on the tap involves using PTFE tape and precise fitting, since the tap’s design doesn’t rely on compression alone.
Additional Features
Installation is straightforward with the included stand and downpipe filler kit, making setup hassle-free.
#3

210 Litre Large Black Water Butt Rain Collector Complete With Stand, Filler, Tap & Lockable Lid

Rating
9.4
Capacity
Design
Additional Features
Capacity
The large capacity makes it perfect for collecting plenty of rainwater, ideal for garden and outdoor use.
Design
The design feels sturdy and reliable, supporting long-term use in various weather conditions.
Additional Features
Installation is straightforward and quick, allowing immediate use without hassle.

This 210-litre water butt from STORM TRADING GROUP is a solid choice for anyone wanting to collect and reuse rainwater efficiently. Its large capacity means you can store a good amount of water, which is great for watering plants, washing your car, or outdoor cleaning, helping reduce your water bills. The plastic material makes it lightweight and weather-resistant, though it may not be as durable as heavier materials like metal.

The included components—tap, downpipe filler kit, stand, and a lockable lid—make it quick to set up and use right away. The lockable lid helps keep debris and pests out, which is a useful feature. Its compact design (about 97 cm tall and 57 cm wide) fits well in most gardens without taking up too much space. While plastic barrels are practical, if you’re looking for a more robust or decorative option, this might seem basic.

This dependable and user-friendly rain barrel is ideal for gardeners and households aiming to conserve water without complicated installation or maintenance.

Rating
9.4
Capacity
Design
Additional Features
Capacity
The large capacity makes it perfect for collecting plenty of rainwater, ideal for garden and outdoor use.
Design
The design feels sturdy and reliable, supporting long-term use in various weather conditions.
Additional Features
Installation is straightforward and quick, allowing immediate use without hassle.

Buying Guide for the Best Rain Barrels

When choosing a rain barrel, it's important to consider how it will fit into your water conservation efforts and garden needs. Rain barrels are a great way to collect and store rainwater for use in your garden, reducing your reliance on municipal water supplies and helping to conserve water. To find the best rain barrel for your needs, consider factors such as capacity, material, design, and additional features that can enhance its functionality and ease of use.
CapacityCapacity refers to the amount of water a rain barrel can hold, typically measured in gallons. This is important because it determines how much rainwater you can collect and store for later use. Rain barrels come in various sizes, ranging from small 30-gallon barrels to large 100-gallon or more. To choose the right capacity, consider the size of your garden and how much water you typically use. If you have a large garden or live in an area with frequent rainfall, a larger capacity barrel may be more suitable. Conversely, a smaller garden or less frequent rainfall might mean a smaller barrel will suffice.
MaterialRain barrels are made from a variety of materials, including plastic, wood, metal, and ceramic. The material affects the durability, weight, and appearance of the barrel. Plastic barrels are lightweight, affordable, and resistant to rust and rot, making them a popular choice. Wooden barrels offer a more traditional look but require maintenance to prevent rot. Metal barrels are durable but can be prone to rust if not properly coated. Ceramic barrels are aesthetically pleasing but can be heavy and fragile. Consider the climate in your area and the aesthetic you prefer when choosing the material.
DesignThe design of a rain barrel includes its shape, color, and overall appearance. This is important for both functionality and how well it blends with your outdoor space. Some barrels are designed to be decorative and can enhance the look of your garden, while others are more utilitarian. Consider where you will place the barrel and how it will fit with your garden's design. Additionally, some designs include features like flat backs for placement against walls or stackable options for increased capacity.
Overflow and SpigotThe overflow system and spigot are crucial components of a rain barrel. The overflow system allows excess water to be diverted away from the barrel when it is full, preventing water from pooling around the base. A good overflow system is essential to prevent flooding and damage to your home's foundation. The spigot is used to access the stored water, so it should be easy to use and positioned at a convenient height. Look for barrels with a sturdy, rust-resistant spigot and a reliable overflow system to ensure efficient water management.
Additional FeaturesSome rain barrels come with additional features that can enhance their functionality. These may include built-in filters to keep debris out, linking kits to connect multiple barrels, or mosquito-proof screens to prevent insect breeding. These features can make a rain barrel more convenient and effective. Consider what additional features might be beneficial for your specific needs, such as if you live in an area with a lot of debris or mosquitoes, or if you plan to expand your rainwater collection system in the future.