.avif)
In this article, we compare offers from UK hot tub brands, Royal Tubs and Gardenvity.
We have picked deals that are as similar as possible for the most accurate comparison.
Gardenvity
Royal Tubs
What are Royal Tubs hot tubs?
If you look at the [About Us] section of the Royal Tubs website, you will find a relatable origin story. The brand was reportedly founded after the owners had a terrible personal experience attempting to buy a hot tub in the UK.
Frustrated by poor service and underwhelming quality, they set out to create a company that did things differently.
Since then, Royal Tubs has established itself as a major player, promising a superior customer journey and a product that is proudly stamped with a distinct identity.
However, while their commitment to quality is evident, questions have arisen regarding the transparency of their manufacturing location.
Royal Tubs: Great Quality, Confusing Origins?
The origin story of Royal Tubs is a familiar one: the brand was reportedly born out of frustration with the poor buying experience surrounding hot tubs in the UK market.
It is a compelling narrative, backed by a prominent claim on their main page: "Built in the UK."
However, our research suggests this statement may not be entirely accurate.
Tracing the Source
While the branding is British, the manufacturing appears to take place elsewhere. We have identified the true manufacturer as Memel Wood, a highly respected and robust factory based in Lithuania.
The Evidence
The connection is visible in media released by the manufacturer. In a video uploaded directly by Memel Wood, Royal Tubs branding and specific products are clearly visible on the production line, contradicting the domestic manufacturing claim. [About Us: Memel Wood]
The Verdict
It is important to note that Memel Wood is known for excellent craftsmanship. The issue here isn't quality—it is transparency.
Consumers deserve to know exactly where their investment is coming from, especially when "British Made" is used as a selling point.
The different hot tub models. What is the difference?
Royal Tubs offer 4 types of hot tubs:
Deluxe
The Deluxe model offers 3 types of heaters:
1. External Integrated (included in the base price)
2. Diesel (external, +£2500)
3. Low profile Integrated (+£500)
The model pairs a wooden shell with an acrylic liner and what they label an 'external integrated' heater—a slightly confusing term, as it blurs the line between two standard heater types. The explain the wording and terminologies here.
The Off-Grid Option: Royal Tubs also sells a non-electric version of the Deluxe. It offers the same build quality but strips back the features for a rustic soak—meaning no jets or lights, but total freedom to place the tub anywhere.
Square Hot Tub
The square model is a classic wood-fired tub equipped with both air and hydro massage systems. However, the spec sheet contains a technical error worth noting:
Royal Tubs lists UV light sterilization as a 'filter'.
Let’s be clear: UV light is a sanitizer (it neutralizes bacteria), not a filter. It will not remove physical debris or particles from the water, so labeling it as filtration is misleading.
The Pricing Anomaly:
From a value perspective, this model offers a tactical advantage over the 'Deluxe' version. Royal Tubs allows you to upgrade to a Wood-Plastic Composite (WPC) exterior on this square tub for free.
In contrast, the Deluxe model charges a £300 premium for the exact same material upgrade—a strange inconsistency in their pricing structure.
Seating
Deluxe Premium:Fits 6-8 adults
Square Hot Tub:Up to 6-8 adults
Heating time
Deluxe Premium:Summer ± 1.5 hrs,
Winter ± 2.5 hrs
Square Hot Tub:Summer ± 2 hrs,
Winter ± 3 hrs
Interior/Exterior diameter
Deluxe Premium:E: 200 cm
In: 180 cm
Square Hot Tub:E: 202 cm
In: 180 cm
Water volume
Deluxe Premium:317 gallons (1200 l)
Square Hot Tub:343,4 gallons (1300 l)
Price
Deluxe Premium:*starting at £5,500
Square Hot Tub:*starting at £6,595
The one and main difference is the shape, and capacity, because of that the heating time and price increases.
Other offered models
Other offered models
Royal Tubs also offers customizable hot tubs, but lack pricing transparency. After you're done building the hot tub, you do not see the price, only can get a quote. [Design Your Own Wooden Hot Tubs]
Key Features of Gardenvity wood-fired hot tubs
Gardenvity takes a distinct, forward-thinking path. Their positioning is clear: straightforward premium quality that eliminates unnecessary complexity while integrating features that offer genuine value.
The "All-Inclusive" Philosophy
Rather than upselling essential comfort features separately, Gardenvity focuses on delivering a complete At-Home Spa experience from day one.
This means prioritising high-performance Hydro and Air massage systems as standard expectations for a premium tub, ensuring users get the full therapeutic benefit without navigating a confusing options list.
Superior Filtration & Protection
A key differentiator for Gardenvity is their uncompromising approach to water hygiene and equipment protection. They address the demanding environment with a robust filtration setup that often outspecs competitors:
Weather-Proof Housing: Every filtration option comes with a matching wooden filter box (available in square or round designs). This is crucial for protecting the mechanical components from the elements.
The Ultimate 3-Step Filtration System: Gardenvity utilises a Premium Sand Filter setup rather than basic cartridge systems. [Premium Sand Filter]
Sand Filter: For superior particle trapping.
UV-C Lamp: For automatic disinfection and water clarity.
Integrated Components: Includes a 3kW Heater, Pre-filter, and a centralised Control Center for seamless operation.
Component Overview
Sand filter
Blue Lagoon UV-C lamp
3 kW Electric Heater, 220 V (Premium feature)
Prevents the hot tub from freezing even in lower temperatures.Prefilter (Premium feature)
The prefilter catches debris before it even reaches the main filter.Independent controls (Premium feature)
Ensures convenient, customized operation while extending the lifespan of the UV-C lamp.
More about the filter [Premium Sand Filter]
Hydrotherapy: A "Seat-by-Seat" Approach
While many competitors offer pre-set massage layouts, Gardenvity distinguishes itself through customization.
They have engineered a system that allows users to tailor the hydrotherapy experience down to the individual seat, ensuring the tub fits specific therapeutic needs rather than generic expectations. [Fully Customizable Massage Experience]
Granular Control: You aren't limited to a standard setup. You can choose specific massage configurations for each seat individually.
Maximized Power: For those seeking intense relief, the system supports up to 28 Hydro massage nozzles and 12 Air massage nozzles.
Targeted Zones: The inclusion of separate Hydro Zones and Flow Adjustment controls means users can isolate muscle groups and adjust pressure intensity, moving beyond simple bubbles to genuine hydro-massage. [Hydro massage]
Why Gardenvity Resonates in the UK Market
Gardenvity has carved out a reputation for being the "safe hands" choice. They appeal specifically to buyers who want the luxury of a wood-fired tub without the anxiety of a complex or opaque purchasing process.
Key factors driving their popularity include:
Hybrid Aesthetics: They strike a balance between traditional charm and modern minimalism. The design fits seamlessly into British landscaping.
Material Intelligence: Construction relies on ThermoWood cladding, high-durability inserts, and efficient insulation—materials chosen specifically to survive UK winters.
Flexible "Tech-Level": They don't force technology on purists. You can opt for a rustic, off-grid style tub or upgrade heavily with lights, filtration, and jets.
Radical Transparency: The buying journey is designed to build trust. Pricing is VAT-included (eliminating checkout shocks), delivery terms are explicit, and they provide an extensive library of maintenance guides and blogs to educate owners before and after purchase. [Guides & Resources]
Gardenvity acknowledges that British outdoor spaces vary wildly, from compact urban courtyards to sprawling country estates.To accommodate this, they offer a dual-path ordering process:
Pre-Configured Models: Best-selling setups ready for quick ordering.
The Online Configurator: A tool allowing full customization of layout, jet placement, lighting, and accessories to match specific spatial and usage requirements.
Design & build
Gardenvity offers both: Square and Round wood-fired hot tubs.
Heater types: Integrated
Heater types: External
Low-Profile Access for Effortless Entry
Also you can get a 1-2 person Ofuro shape, or an easy-entry hot tub.
.avif)
Easy-Entry model breaks away from the industry standard of high-walled tubs. Standing at a low-profile height of just 72 cm (compared to the typical ~1m), it is designed to remove the physical barrier between you and relaxation.
Step-Free Access: There is no need for precarious external stairs or climbing. The lower rim allows most adults to simply lift a leg and step in effortlessly, making the transition into the water smooth and dignified.
Internal Stability: Unlike many wood-fired tubs that feature rounded, bowl-like interiors, this model utilizes a flat-bottom architecture.
This ensures you have firm, level footing immediately upon entry, eliminating the slippery balancing act often required in traditional spherical tubs.
Family-Safe & Future-Proof
The reduced height is a deliberate ergonomic choice that makes this the safest option for multi-generational families.
Inclusive Design: The 72 cm profile is significantly more accessible for children, the elderly, or those with limited mobility, allowing everyone to enjoy the spa experience without struggle.
Peace of Mind: For parents, the lower walls improve visibility and reach, making it easier to supervise or assist younger bathers. It minimizes the risk of trips and falls associated with climbing over high, wet edges.
Solves the "Narrow Garden" Problem
Beyond comfort, the flat-bottom design offers a unique logistical advantage for UK homeowners with restricted access.
Tight-Space Maneuverability: Because of its compact 72 cm height and flat base, this tub can be turned on its side to navigate through narrow garden gates, alleyways, and tight corners that would block a standard round tub.
No Crane Required: In many cases, this design eliminates the need for expensive crane hire, allowing for manual positioning in secluded garden spots that were previously inaccessible.
Brand Offered Features
All information is derived from customizable, and pre-configured models.
Please note that listed options represent potential capabilities and may not be available for every specific model.
Royal Tubs
Gardenvity
Insert options
Royal Tubs:Acrylic
4 colors
Gardenvity:Fiberglass, Acrylic
8 Fiberglass colors, 5 Acrylic
Cladding and exterior finish
Royal Tubs:Wood or WPC
7 wood colors available
2 WPC colors.
Gardenvity:Thermowood
3 colors available
Heaters
Royal Tubs:Integrated: Standart, Gecko electric, Low profile
External: standart (3 sizes), diesel
Stainless Steel 304
Gardenvity:*Integrated: Standart, Verta™, Horizon™
*External: Octa
*All Gardenvity heaters have options for 2 types of stainless steel and heat output ranging from 20kW to 39kW.
Filter
Royal Tubs:External Sand Filter, UV-C, Submersible Skimatic Filter
(enclosure possible)
Gardenvity:Sand filter, filter box, UV-C. Upgrade available. [Premium Sand Filter]
Massage options
Royal Tubs:8 bubble/hydro combined jets + 4 air bubble jets
or 6-10 hydro jets only
Gardenvity:Hydro: up to 28 jets
Air: up to 12 jets
Heater similarities
When choosing a heater between these to brands, you can visibly see similarities, but also differences.
Royal Tubs do not specify the differences on their website.
Any information is based on the details found in product pages.
Integrated models
Royal Tubs
Gardenvity
Material
Royal Tubs:304 Stainless Steel
Gardenvity:316 AISI Stainless Steel
Heating time
Royal Tubs:*Summer ± 1.5 hrs,
Winter ± 2.5 hrs
Gardenvity:approx. 2-2.5 hours at +2 °C outdoor temperature
Heating output
Royal Tubs:?
Gardenvity:30 kW
Fuel
Royal Tubs:Softwood/Hardwood
Gardenvity:Dry softwood or a mixture of softwood and hardwood in equal proportions.
External models
Royal Tubs
Gardenvity
Material
Royal Tubs:304 Stainless Steel
Gardenvity:316 AISI Stainless Steel
Heating time
Royal Tubs:*Summer ± 1.5 hrs,
Winter ± 2.5 hrs
Gardenvity:approx. 1.5–2 hours at +2 °C outdoor temperature
Heating output
Royal Tubs:?
Gardenvity:38 kW.
Fuel
Royal Tubs:*Softwood/Hardwood
Gardenvity:Dry softwood or a mixture of softwood and hardwood in equal proportions.
Internal Horizontal models
Royal Tubs
Gardenvity
Material
Royal Tubs:304 Stainless Steel
Gardenvity:316 AISI Stainless Steel
Heating time
Royal Tubs:*Summer ± 1.5 hrs,
Winter ± 2.5 hrs
Gardenvity:approx. 3,5 - 4 hours at +2 °C outdoor temperature
Heating output
Royal Tubs:?
Gardenvity:20 kW.
Fuel
Royal Tubs:Softwood/Hardwood
Gardenvity:Dry softwood or a mixture of softwood and hardwood in equal proportions.
Conclusion
Choosing between Royal Tubs and Gardenvity ultimately comes down to what you value most in a wood-fired hot tub experience—and how much transparency and long-term clarity you expect from the brand.
It’s important to note that both brands manufacture their wood-fired hot tubs in Lithuania, working with experienced production facilities known for solid craftsmanship and durable materials.
The difference lies not in where the tubs are made, but in how each brand structures its operations and communicates this to customers.
Royal Tubs operates with a UK-based office, which may feel reassuring for buyers who prefer dealing with a domestic company.
However, details around manufacturing origin, technical specifications, and component transparency often require deeper investigation by the customer.
Gardenvity, on the other hand, is headquartered in Lithuania, close to its manufacturing operations, which allows for tighter quality control and clearer technical oversight.
At the same time, Gardenvity maintains a UK warehouse for stock and logistics, enabling fast delivery within the UK without compromising transparency about where and how the products are made.
Both brands offer well-built wood-fired hot tubs manufactured in Lithuania—but the right choice depends on whether you prefer a UK-fronted brand experience or a more direct, technically transparent approach combined with efficient UK-based logistics.
- ThermoWood cladding
- Integrated AISI 316 heater
- Insulated cover + thermal insulation,
- 16 hydro jets, 12 air jets,
- 11 multi-colour LEDs,
- Curved steps
.avif)