Which Patio Paving Is Best for the UK?

A Guide to Choosing the Right Style, Colour & Finish

When planning a new patio, your paving choice can completely transform your outdoor space. But with so many options on the market, how do you know which type of patio paving is best suited for UK homes? Whether you’re renovating a traditional garden or designing a sleek contemporary space, this guide will help you choose the right style, finish, and colour of paving for your needs.

Understanding the Different Types of Patio Paving

Choosing the right material is your first big decision. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular options:

Natural Stone Paving

Includes sandstone, limestone, granite, and slate. These are durable, premium options that weather beautifully over time.

Concrete Paving Slabs

A versatile and budget-friendly choice, available in a wide range of finishes. Great for both classic and modern garden designs.

Porcelain Paving

Rapidly growing in popularity, porcelain is low-maintenance, non-porous, and stylish — ideal for sleek outdoor living areas.

Block Paving

Traditionally used for driveways, but it can also be a creative choice for edging or statement patios.

Choosing Between Textured and Smooth Finishes

One of the key visual and functional decisions is the surface finish.

• Textured paving (like Marshalls Symphony Elements) offers more slip resistance, making it great for shaded areas or families with children.
• Smooth, sawn finishes (like Marshalls Sawn Versuro) create a premium, modern look that’s easy to clean and visually striking.

If safety and practicality are top priorities, a light texture is usually best. For a more refined aesthetic, go with sawn.

What’s the Best Colour for UK Patios?

The UK weather and light conditions play a big part in how paving looks outdoors. Here’s a quick guide to trending colours:

• Grey – Clean, modern, and timeless. Our most popular choice.
• Buff and golden tones – Warm, welcoming, and traditional. Great for older properties.
• Charcoal or black – Dramatic and sophisticated, best used in well-lit gardens.
• Mixed colour tones – Offer a rustic, forgiving look that’s great for disguising dirt.

Our customers often choose Brindle, Buff, and Charcoal — available across many Marshalls ranges.

Recommended Marshalls Patio Products

At UK Building Supplies, we’ve smashed our prices across the entire Marshalls range. Here are a few customer favourites:

Marshalls Sawn Versuro

The Rolls Royce of paving. Precision-cut, smooth, and ideal for creating a luxury outdoor living space.

Marshalls Symphony Elements

A textured porcelain range available in stylish tones like copper and graphite — both modern and practical.

Marshalls Alvanley Pavers

Perfect for traditional homes, offering a classic block finish in warm colours.

Marshalls Woodstone

A stunning alternative to timber, this concrete range replicates the texture of aged wood without the rot or maintenance.

Final Tips Before You Buy

• Order a sample to see the true colour and texture
• Think about drainage and slope — don’t just focus on looks
• Consider how much cleaning and maintenance you’re happy to do
• Ask about professional installation (we can recommend trusted installers)

A well-laid patio can last 20+ years — so choose materials that match your lifestyle and home.

Product Specification

Looking to upgrade your garden this summer?

Browse our full range of discounted Marshalls paving slabs at www.ukbuildingsupplies.co.uk and get fast UK delivery from a team that knows the trade. 🛠️🌿