How Much Do Kitchen Worktops Cost in the UK in 2026?

If you’re planning a kitchen renovation, you need to find the perfect kitchen worktop for your budget and style. Knowing the different worktop materials and what they cost can help you plan smarter and not overspend. Let’s break down what you can expect to spend, what affects the price, and which options give you the best value.

Are Kitchen Worktops Worth the Investment?

Absolutely. A new worktop instantly refreshes your kitchen, improves functionality, and can even add value to your home. With materials ranging from budget-friendly laminate to premium quartz, there’s an option for every style and price point.

Many modern worktops are designed for durability and easy installation, meaning some can be fitted without professional help, saving on labour costs. When chosen wisely, your new surface can last for years, making it a smart and cost-effective upgrade.

What is the Cost of a Kitchen Worktop?

A Closer Look at Each Worktop Material

Deciding on a kitchen worktop will mean considering the price, but this also needs to consider the cost of replacement or repairs down the line. Here are some of the popular kitchen worktops: 

Laminate Worktops

Laminate remains one of the UK’s most popular kitchen choices for good reason. It’s affordable, stylish, and available in hundreds of finishes that mimic stone, marble, and even wood. It’s also water-resistant and easy to clean, making it ideal for family homes or rental properties.

Compact Laminate Worktops

A step up from standard laminate, compact laminate offers exceptional durability and a sleek, slimline look. It’s completely waterproof and highly resistant to scratches and heat, making it a great fit for busy kitchens that require practicality and style.

Solid Wood Worktops

Solid wood worktops bring warmth and natural charm to any kitchen. Oak, walnut, and beech are timeless choices that can last decades with proper care. They do need occasional oiling to maintain their beauty, but their longevity and ability to be refinished make them a sustainable investment.

Quartz Worktops

For those seeking a premium look without the high maintenance of natural stone, quartz is an excellent choice. It’s non-porous, stain-resistant, and incredibly strong. While it’s on the pricier side, quartz delivers unmatched durability and an elegant finish that suits modern homes beautifully.

Acrylic Worktops

Acrylic or solid surface worktops, such as Corian, offer a seamless appearance that’s easy to clean and hygienic. Joints are nearly invisible, and scratches can be polished out, making them a long-lasting and stylish option for contemporary kitchens.

Ceramic Worktops

Ceramic worktops combine stunning looks with unbeatable performance. Resistant to heat, scratches, and UV damage, they’re ideal for high-use kitchens. Though among the most expensive options, their resilience and refined finish make them a worthwhile investment for those seeking long-term value.

What Affects the Cost of Kitchen Worktops?

A few key factors influence how much you’ll pay for your new worktop:

• Material choice: This is the biggest cost factor, with laminate and wood generally more affordable than quartz or ceramic.
• Size and shape: Larger or uniquely shaped worktops require more material and labour.
• Cut-outs: Sink, hob, and tap cut-outs increase fabrication time and cost.
• Edges and finishes: Premium edge profiles or polished finishes cost slightly more.
• Installation: Professional fitting typically ranges between £150 to £500, depending on complexity.
• Location: Labour rates are higher in cities like London and the South East.

Should You Replace or Repair?

If your current worktop is scratched, stained, or water-damaged, a replacement might be more cost-effective than repeated repairs. Materials like laminate and compact laminate can be swapped easily and affordably, while upgrading to quartz, acrylic, or ceramic can dramatically improve both the look and functionality of your kitchen.

Replacing your worktop refreshes your kitchen’s appearance while making it more hygienic, durable, and sustainable.

Invest Smartly in Your Kitchen

Your worktop is the centrepiece of your kitchen where meals, memories, and moments happen every day. Whether you go for the affordability of laminate, the timeless beauty of wood, or the luxury of quartz or ceramic, the key is choosing a material that fits your lifestyle and budget.

Worktop Hub makes it easy to find, cut, and install the perfect surface for your home, whatever your vision or price range. Get in touch!