how much to install shower over bath uk

How Much to Install Shower Over Bath UK? Cost Guide & Top Picks

Written by: Dimitri Zobnin

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Time to read 7 min

If you are asking “ how much to install shower over bath UK”, you are already thinking like a planner. Price depends on your layout and spec, but the smarter move is to choose a setup that fits your existing bath, water system and style. Once the kit is right, you can request a fixed price from your installer with fewer surprises.


This quick guide from House of ENKI shows what drives price, which setups work best for your water system, and how to choose hardware that looks smart and lasts.

Typical UK Costs

how much to install shower over bath uk

Costs vary by region, scope and spec, so treat the figures below as a guide rather than a quote. Your total will vary depending on different factors, like concealed vs exposed setups, access to pipework, tiling and making good, plus any electrical requirements and local labour rates. Here’s what UK homeowners typically see.


For a standard mixer shower over a bath, expect:

  • Roughly £450–£1,200 for supply and fit.

  • In London/SE, budget ~12–18% more than UK average.

For an electric shower over a bath (new circuit + certs):

  • Roughly £700–£1,800+, depending on cable run, RCD/consumer unit status, and finishes. Electrical work must comply with Part P.

Plumber labour commonly lands ~£45–£70/hr or £250–£450/day, region-dependent.

Pick Your Over-Bath Format

Ready to add a shower above the bath but not sure which setup fits your space and system? Start by choosing the format. From a simple thermostatic mixer to a two-outlet upgrade or a full 3 outlet shower system, each option changes how the shower feels, how it looks, and how straightforward the install will be.


For inspiration, see our guide: Shower Over Bath Ideas.

1. Thermostatic Bath Shower Mixer

A thermostatic bath shower mixer tap with a diverter is the simplest way to create a new shower over the bath. You keep the bath filler and add a handset or a larger shower head.


Why it suits most homes:


  • Generally works well with combi boilers and provides steady hot water supply

  • Family-friendly temperature control

  • Ideal when you want to refresh an old shower without ripping up the wall

Top tip: use a rigid riser shower kit and handset for daily rinsing, or add a compact rain plate if you fancy something larger.

2. Two-Outlet Set Above the Bath

One control for temperature, a selector for outlets. Think of a fixed head for the everyday spray and a handset for cleaning and hair washing.


Why people choose 2 outlet shower systems:


  • Better coverage from the big head

  • Easy height adjustment on the rail

  • Neat with framed or frameless glass panels

3. Three-Outlet System Over the Bath

Want it all in one spot? A rain head, a handset and a bath spout. It is a tidy 3/1 configuration that feels luxurious without needing a separate enclosure.


Why it shines:


  • Great for households with different habits

  • Keeps the bath clear for soaking

  • Consistent finish from valve to accessories

Layout Choices, Splash Control and Systems

shower over bath uk
Choosing the right layout and setup makes your over-bath shower feel smarter from day one. This section covers the look you want on the wall, how to keep water where it should be, and the system choices that keep performance smooth.

Concealed or Exposed

Concealed showers keep the mechanics inside the wall for a clean finish on the tiled wall. It’s a strong choice when you’re re-tiling or planning a wider refresh. Exposed showers put bar shower valves on show and are quicker to fit, often reducing labour costs for a swift update. House of ENKI offers both options in a range of finishes, so your shower heads, hoses and controls match across the set.

Screens and Splash Control

A shower over a bath needs reliable containment. Hinged or fixed glass panels create a tight seal, crisp lines and an easy wipe-down surface. If you may convert later, consider a shower enclosure plan now so valve height, shower head position and hardware are future-ready.


For short-term refreshes or rentals, a curtain and rail can work well, especially if you’re tackling a quick DIY project. Choose hardware that matches your brassware for a joined-up look and an easy-clean bathroom floor.

Water System Quick Check

Performance rests on water pressure and heat source. A combi boiler or unvented cylinder usually delivers steady hot water for mixers and larger heads.


Older gravity systems benefit from smaller heads or a booster to keep flow consistent. Electric showers are an option when hot-water capacity is limited, but they involve electrical work and must meet building regulations.


House of ENKI thermostatic mixers are designed for UK systems—if you’re unsure which shower head to pick, see our guide on the Best Shower Head for Low Pressure.

Electric or Mixer Above the Bath

A mixer uses your existing hot and cold feeds and suits most over-bath shower installations. An electric shower heats on demand, handy when hot water is tight, but allow for certified wiring, RCD protection and tidy routing, as this affects shower installation costs. If you’re upgrading from certain power showers, your installer may recommend tweaks to meet today’s efficiency standards.

Finishing Touches, Complexities and Quoting

shower over bath
Small choices make a big difference. Here’s how to nail the finishing touches, handle tricky briefs, choose worthwhile upgrades, and brief installers for a clear fixed price so your over-bath shower looks sharp and runs smoothly from day one.

Practical Details that Shape the Finish

Set the riser rail at a height everyone can reach, and choose a handset style that suits daily routines. Decide whether you prefer a fixed or swivel shower head for the spray you like.


Keep outlets, elbows and brackets aligned so hoses sit straight and tidy. Pay attention to sealing where the screen meets the bath and tiled wall, and add storage like shower niches in the same finish as your brassware. Small choices here pay off every day.

When the Brief Gets Trickier

Some bathrooms are straightforward. Others need a bit more planning. A more complex installation might involve moving pipework, chasing solid walls or improving the substrate before tiling. A truly complex installation can mean coordinating joinery, tiling and electrics on the same day, sometimes with multiple professionals. If electrics are involved, make sure the contractor handles Part P notifications and gives you the right paperwork so the shower installation stays compliant and sale-ready.

Upgrades That Make a Difference

A few smart add-ons can lift comfort, save water, and keep your over-bath setup looking sharp.


  • Water efficiency inserts and flow limiters that save litres without flattening the feel.

  • Matching accessories—from corner baskets to discreet outlets—for a consistent look.

  • Accessibility features such as larger handles, lever controls and a stable rail height.

  • Replace a basic shower unit with a new shower unit that matches your bathroom taps for a cohesive result.

If you’re eyeing a freestanding tub, you’ll love our Freestanding Bath With Shower Ideas.

What to Share When You Request a Quote

Installers price faster and more accurately with clear information. Send photos of the bath wall, the existing bath, and the boiler or cylinder label. Confirm your chosen finish, outlet count, and whether you want concealed or exposed.


Mention any plan to convert to a new shower space later and whether you will replace an old shower or reuse the screen. Ask for a written scope with a fixed price, including making good, materials, and any electrical work if you are considering electric showers.

Final Thoughts

Ready to turn your bath into a daily shower that works seamlessly and looks the part? Choose your format, pick a finish you love, and match it to your water system.


Explore House of ENKI for thermostatic shower valves, two and three outlet sets, and matching accessories in finishes from chrome to brushed brass.


Want help now? Get in touch with House of ENKI. We will recommend the right kit, keep the look consistent from valve to shower head, and set you up for a clean, reliable result.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a 3/1 setup?

Three outlets, one valve set. Think rain head, handset and bath spout controlled from a coordinated plate. Perfect when you want flexibility over the existing bath.

How long does a typical over-bath install take?

Often a single day for exposed mixers and a screen. A more complex installation or truly complex installation with tiling or electrics can take longer. Clear access helps reduce shower installation costs.

Can this be done as a DIY project?

Small swaps, maybe. Concealed valves, screens and any electrical work are best left to pros to keep your shower installation compliant and watertight.

Do I need a shower tray for an over-bath setup?

No. The bath is your tray. Shower trays are for walk in shower areas and enclosures. If you later convert to a wet room or enclosed shower, ENKI finishes carry across.

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Dimitri Zobnin

Dimitri Zobnin is one of the co-founders of House of ENKI and brings his wealth of experience in home fixtures and design to each blog post. Passionate about high-quality kitchen and bathroom fittings, Dimitri provides practical advice on selecting products that suit your home’s needs. His insights are shaped by years of hands-on experience and a commitment to thoughtful design. Outside of writing, Dimitri enjoys keeping up with the latest trends in home improvement and tackling his own DIY projects.