Walk-In Shower Dimensions | Walk-In Shower Size

Published: 13 March 2019 · Last Updated: 25 September 2025

Large and luxurious walk-in showers are available in a wide range of sizes. Depending on the size of your bathroom and specific requirements, dimensions for a walk-in shower vary.

In this article, we break down common walk-in shower sizes and help you understand what might work best in your space.

Rectangular in shape, walk-in showers are built up on an anti-slip and antibacterial tray that often ranges from 25-35mm in height. They’re typically enclosed by a straight or wraparound glass screen, often open-ended, creating the distinctive “walk-in” feel.

In this guide, our experts explore:

1. Your showering needs

2. Your available space

3. What walk-in shower dimension will work best for you

Tips for Planning Your Walk-In Shower

Before settling on a final design, it’s important to take a step back and think about how the shower will work within your space and for your day-to-day needs. A well-planned walk-in shower is about size, but also about comfort, safety and long-term practicality.

Here are the main factors to keep in mind:

> Layout constraints: Take note of existing features such as doors, windows, radiators or sloping ceilings. These can all affect where your shower can be positioned and how spacious it will feel.

> Waste pipe location: The position of your waste pipe determines where the tray and drain can go. Planning this early avoids costly changes later on.
Showering needs: Everyone’s requirements are different. Think about mobility, storage, whether you want a fixed screen or an open-ended design and how much space you’ll need for comfortable movement.

> Installation surface: Uneven floors as well as upstairs and downstairs bathrooms may need additional tray or plumbing alterations to ensure the shower is stable and watertight.

> Ventilation & lighting: Good ventilation prevents steam build-up and mould, especially in enclosed walk-in spaces. Pair this with bright, even lighting to make the room feel open and welcoming.

When you choose to work with us, these details aren’t left to chance. Our design team considers each element from day one, so you can feel confident your new walk-in shower will be both practical and beautifully tailored to your home.

Walk-In Shower Dimensions

Walk-in showers are a stylish and practical upgrade for any bathroom, shower room or en-suite. Not only do they create a sense of space, but they also offer easy access and a sleek, modern look that works well in both compact and larger rooms.

In terms of size, most walk-in showers are rectangular and typically range between 900mm–2000mm in length and 700mm–1000mm in width. The right size for you will depend on how much floor space you have available and how you’d like the shower to feel. A more compact design is ideal for smaller bathrooms, while a larger tray can create a luxurious, open-plan effect.

It’s worth remembering that your existing layout plays a big part in what’s possible. The position of your waste pipe in particular often dictates where the tray and drain can be installed. For this reason, we offer a choice of central, offset and twin-waste tray styles, giving flexibility for different rooms and plumbing requirements.

Because every home is different, an experienced surveyor will always carry out a visual assessment before finalising dimensions. This ensures you not only get a tray size that fits neatly within your space, but also a configuration that drains effectively and supports long-term reliability. It’s all about balancing comfort, practicality and peace of mind.

Walk-In Shower Tray Sizes

The shower tray is the foundation of any walk-in shower. It sets the tone for both function and comfort. Choosing the right tray size makes a big difference to how the space feels day to day, so it’s worth taking a moment to consider your options carefully.

Some of the most common tray sizes you can choose from include:

• 900 x 760mm - ideal for smaller bathrooms where space is tight
• 1200 x 800mm - a versatile mid-size option that balances comfort with compactness
• 1400 x 900mm - generous proportions for a more luxurious feel
• 1600 x 800mm - slim but spacious, perfect for narrow rooms
• 1700 x 700mm - long and elegant, similar in footprint to a standard bath
• 1800 x 900mm - a popular choice for creating a hotel-style walk-in experience
• 2000 x 1000mm - the ultimate in open-plan showering, with plenty of room to move freely

Most modern trays are slimline (around 25–35mm in height), creating a seamless transition between the shower and the rest of the bathroom. This not only looks elegant but also reduces trip hazards, making the space safer and easier to access. For added peace of mind, anti-slip coatings come as standard across all our models.

It’s also important to remember that tray size affects more than just appearance:

> Water containment: Larger trays help prevent splashing beyond the screen area.

> Waste placement: The bigger the tray, the more options you’ll have for drain positioning.

> Screen size: Your chosen tray dimensions will determine the width and height of the glass screen needed to complete the design.

Measuring Your Bathroom Space

Getting the measurements right is the first step in choosing your perfect walk-in shower. It might feel a little daunting at first, but breaking it down into simple steps makes the process straightforward.

1. Measure the space: Use a tape measure to record the length and width of the intended shower area in millimetres. This gives you an accurate starting point for tray and screen options.

2. Check for obstructions: Look out for anything that could affect installation, such as door swings, radiators, sloping ceilings or awkward bulkheads. Making a note of these early prevents surprises later on.

3. Locate the waste pipe: The position of your waste (whether central, offset to the side, or in the corner) will guide where your tray and drain can be placed.

4. Assess the walls: Consider whether your walls are strong enough to support a screen or a stabilising support arm. If not, reinforcements may be needed.

Once you’ve gathered these details, you’ll be in a strong position to choose both a tray size and a screen configuration that fit seamlessly into your bathroom. And don’t worry if you’re not confident measuring everything yourself, our surveyors can visit your home, take precise measurements and make sure every detail is accounted for. That way, you can relax knowing your new walk-in shower will be a perfect fit from the start.

Minimum Walk-In Shower Size

The smallest usable size for a walk-in shower tray is around 900mm in length x 760mm in width. While this can work in very compact bathrooms, it isn’t usually our first recommendation. At this size, water is more likely to escape onto the floor, even when a screen is installed, which can mean extra cleaning and a less comfortable experience.

Instead, we suggest opting for a tray with a minimum length of 1200mm and a width between 700–900mm. This gives a better balance of usability and splash protection, ensuring your shower feels practical as well as stylish.

Average Size of Walk-In Shower

The most common walk-in shower size, especially when replacing a standard bath, is 1700mm long x 700mm wide. This size is popular because it often fits perfectly into the footprint of an existing bath, making installation quicker and avoiding major structural work.

If space allows, increasing the width to 800mm or 900mm can make a big difference. That extra room provides greater comfort, more freedom of movement and improved accessibility, ideal for families or anyone planning ahead for future needs.

What Size of Walk-In Shower Do I Need?

Ultimately, the “right” size depends on your room layout, your mobility requirements and whether you’d like to future-proof your home. To help you compare options, here’s a quick guide to common tray sizes and their typical uses:

• 900 x 760mm - compact; suitable for very limited spaces but not ideal for water containment
• 1200 x 800mm - minimum recommended size; a good balance of space and splash protection
• 1400 x 900mm - mid-sized; visually balanced and practical for most shower rooms
• 1600 x 800/900mm - a popular choice for bath replacements, offering comfort without overwhelming the space
• 1700–2000mm x 900–1000mm - spacious and luxurious; ideal if you want a future-proofed design that accommodates changing needs over time

If you’re still unsure, our design team can help you weigh up the options. Together, we’ll look at your available space, how the shower will be used and what’s most important to you, whether that’s style, comfort or long-term accessibility.

Walk-In Shower Screens

Your choice of shower screen has a big impact on both appearance and performance. The right screen helps keep water contained while complementing the overall look of your bathroom.

> Straight screens work well for wall-to-wall or corner installations, keeping things simple and streamlined

> Curved or wraparound screens add extra splash resistance and a softer design aesthetic

> Alcove installations may benefit from a short return panel across one edge, providing practical coverage without closing off the space

Screen dimensions need to be matched carefully to your tray size and room shape.

Benefits of Walk-In Showers

It’s easy to see why walk-in showers have become one of the most sought-after bathroom upgrades. They offer a blend of style, practicality and long-term value that works in almost any home.

Here are some of the key benefits:

1. Seamless design: The open layout creates a sense of light and space, even in smaller rooms.

2. Accessibility: Low-level or level-access trays make stepping in and out safer and easier for everyone.

3. Low maintenance: With fewer moving parts and seals, walk-in showers are simpler to clean and maintain.

4. Customisable layout: From compact corners to spacious double-entry designs, walk-in showers can be tailored to fit your space perfectly.

5. Increased home value: A modern, practical upgrade that appeals to today’s buyers.

6. Perfect bath replacement: An excellent option for anyone who rarely uses their bath and wants a more functional, everyday solution.

Whether you’re looking to streamline your morning routine, create a hotel-inspired bathroom, or future-proof your home for years to come, a walk-in shower delivers both adaptability and timeless appeal.

Level Access vs Walk-In Showers

At first glance, walk-in showers and level access showers look very similar. Both offer a sleek, open design and make stepping in and out much easier than a traditional cubicle or bath. However, there are some key differences worth keeping in mind:

Walk-In Showers

1. Feature a slim tray with a slight lip (usually 25–35mm in height)

2. Typically easier to install in most bathrooms without major structural changes

3. Provide reliable water drainage thanks to the built-in tray design

4. A great option for families and everyday use, balancing practicality with modern style

Level Access Showers

1. Installed flush with the floor, either with no tray or with the tray sunk into the floor.

2. Offer full accessibility, making them particularly suitable for wheelchair users or anyone with reduced mobility.

3. Usually part of a wet room design, requiring skilled waterproofing and careful floor gradients to ensure effective drainage.

Which is right for you depends on your home and your needs. We’ll take into account your floor level, mobility requirements and budget before recommending the best solution. Whether you’re looking for convenience, luxury or a truly future-proofed space, our team will help you choose with confidence.

What is the difference between a walk-in shower and a wet room?

While walk-in showers and wet rooms both offer a modern, open-plan feel, they differ in how the space is constructed and used.

Walk-In Showers

> Built with a shower tray and partial enclosure to help contain water

> Clearly defines the showering zone while keeping the rest of the bathroom dry

> Often quicker to install and requires less structural work than a full wet room

Wet Rooms

>The entire bathroom is waterproofed (a process known as “tanking”), with a discreet drain recessed into the floor

> Creates a seamless, open layout with no tray or enclosure. Water simply drains away across the whole floor

> Ideal for smaller bathrooms where maximising space is key, or for anyone who needs full level access without thresholds or steps

Wet rooms deliver a sleek, minimalist aesthetic and can make even compact bathrooms feel more spacious. They’re also a practical long-term choice if you want to future-proof your home for accessibility.

Want to dive deeper? Take a look at our Complete Guide to Wet Rooms & Wet Room Installation for everything you need to know.

More Bathrooms, part of the Passmore Group, is Yorkshire's only 5* rated bathroom design and installation company. Making dream bathrooms, en-suites and wet rooms a reality, we deliver an exceptional service across every stage from consultation to aftercare.

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