A garden path should do two things well: take you from A to B without wet feet, and look like it belongs there. When we design gardens across Kent, Surrey and South East London, the path is one of the last decisions we make, not the first.
How Much Does a Garden Path Cost?
The cost depends on the material, the length, and who's laying it. A 10-metre path at 90cm wide needs 9 square metres of material.
Gravel: £5-15 per sqm, lasts 10+ years
Reclaimed brick: £20-40 per sqm, lasts 50+ years
Natural stone: £40-80 per sqm, lasts 50+ years
Cost example: A 10-metre main path in reclaimed brick at £30/sqm × 9 sqm = £270 in materials. Add £200-400 labour if you're not laying it yourself.
Choosing Your Path Material
Gravel
The workhorse. Gravel drains instantly, works in any garden style, and costs less than most paving. You'll need to top it up every 2-3 years.
Best gravel for paths: Golden self-binding gravel (£10-15/sqm), Cotswold buff (£8-12/sqm), or slate grey (£12-18/sqm).
Brick
Brick paths suit cottage gardens and period properties. Reclaimed bricks have more character but new bricks give you uniform colour.
Laying patterns: Herringbone is strongest. Running bond is simpler. Basketweave suits wider paths.
Natural Stone
York stone, sandstone, limestone. The premium option at £40-80 per sqm for material alone, plus £40-60/sqm for laying.
Straight or Curved?
Straight paths create formality and direction. They work in front gardens, along boundaries, and narrow side passages.
Curved paths make gardens feel larger because you can't see the whole route at once. Every curve needs a reason - curve around a tree, a bed, a water feature. If there's nothing to curve around, keep it straight.
Plants for Path Edges
The best path planting spills gently over the edge without blocking the route.
For sun: Lavender, catmint, Mexican fleabane, creeping thyme, lady's mantle.
For shade: Japanese anemones, ferns, Brunnera, geraniums.
Getting Started
Map the path last, not first. Live with the space for a few weeks. Notice where you actually walk. The desire line is usually the best place for the path.
We design gardens across Kent, Surrey, and South East London. Call 0203 834 9807 or contact us here.