Choosing the right paving can completely transform a garden. In Sussex and Kent we often design outdoor spaces that complement period homes, countryside views, and natural planting schemes.

Below are five of the most popular paving options we recommend to our clients — each offering different aesthetics, budgets, and maintenance levels.

1. Natural Sandstone Paving (The Classic Choice)

Best for: Traditional gardens, cottages, country homes

Sandstone is one of the most popular paving choices in the UK thanks to its natural colours and character. Each slab has unique tones and textures, making patios feel organic and timeless.

Why homeowners love it:

• Natural appearance that suits rural landscapes
• Wide range of colours (greys, buffs, greens)
• Good value natural stone

Things to consider:

• Slightly porous, so sealing can help longevity
• Natural colour variation between batches

Budget guide: ££–£££

2. Stone Setts (Traditional Character & Exceptional Durability)

Best for: Driveways, courtyards, pathways, and heritage properties

Stone setts (sometimes called cobbles) are small blocks of natural stone, most commonly granite, that create a highly durable and characterful paved surface. They have been used in Britain for centuries in historic streets and courtyards, making them a perfect choice for period properties and traditional Sussex gardens.

Because they are individual stones rather than large slabs, setts allow for a wide range of patterns and can adapt easily to curved paths or informal layouts.

Why homeowners love them:

• Extremely durable – often lasting many decades
• Beautiful, traditional appearance
• Ideal for decorative patterns such as fan, herringbone, or coursed layouts
• Excellent for driveways and high-traffic areas

Things to consider:

• Installation is more labour-intensive than slab paving
• Surface is slightly textured and uneven compared with large paving slabs

Sustainability

Natural stone setts are a very sustainable paving choice because they have an exceptionally long lifespan and can often be reused or reclaimed. Their durability means they rarely need replacing, reducing long-term environmental impact.

Budget guide: £££–££££

3. Limestone Paving (Elegant & Architectural)

Best for: Contemporary landscapes and formal gardens

Limestone offers a more uniform appearance than sandstone, making it ideal for clean architectural designs.

Why homeowners love it:

• Smooth and elegant appearance
• Subtle colour palette (greys, blacks, creams)
• Complements modern architecture

Things to consider:

• Colour may soften slightly with weathering
• Often sealed to maintain tone

Budget guide: £££

4. Reclaimed Brick or Stone (Most Sustainable paving)

Best for: Period homes, cottage gardens, sustainable landscaping

Reclaimed materials are one of the most environmentally responsible paving options because they reuse existing stone or brick rather than creating new materials.

Why homeowners love it:

• Unique historic character
• Extremely durable
• Low environmental impact

Things to consider:

• Limited availability of matching pieces
• Labour can be slightly higher

Budget guide: £££–££££

Sustainability rating: ★★★★★ (best option)

5. Reclaimed Yorkstone (Premium Heritage Choice)

Best for: Heritage properties and high-end landscaping

Yorkstone has been used in Britain for centuries and is known for its exceptional durability and timeless appearance.

When sourced locally in the UK, it can also have a lower carbon footprint than imported stone.

Why homeowners love it:

• Traditional British character
• Extremely durable (often lasting 100+ years)
• Adds value to period properties

Things to consider:

• Higher material cost
• Limited colour range

Budget guide: £££££

Quick Paving Comparison:

Our recommendation for Sussex and Kent gardens

For many gardens in Sussex and Kent, the best paving results come from natural materials that complement the surrounding landscape. Sandstone, reclaimed Yorkstone, and  brick often age beautifully alongside planting, brick houses, and rural views.

To discuss your paving preferences and what would best suit your home as well as complimenting the surroundings, please get in touch.