Gravel Driveways

At Landmark Driveways, we assess your driveway’s size, usage, and drainage needs to recommend the ideal gravel type and size. Choosing the right gravel size is essential for a durable, stable, and low-maintenance gravel driveway. We recommend gravel sizes that offer excellent drainage, compaction, and long-term performance under vehicle traffic.

Recommended Gravel Sizes for Driveways:

20mm Gravel is the most popular choice

• Ideal for driveways – large enough to stay in place under cars but small enough for comfortable walking
• Offers good drainage and compacts well
• Commonly used in decorative gravel finishes and driveway base layers

10mm Gravel

• Best for top dressing or smaller areas
• More likely to shift under vehicle weight – not ideal as the main layer for driveways
• Often used for paths or garden features rather than driveways

MOT Type 1

• Used as a sub-base layer beneath the gravel to provide strength and stability
• Ensures proper drainage and load-bearing capacity
• Essential for driveways with regular vehicle use

Gravel driveways are one of the most cost-effective driveway options available. Landmark Landscaping offer professional gravel driveway installations tailored to your budget, site conditions, and design preferences.

Key Factors That Affect Cost:

• Size of the Driveway
• Ground Conditions – Uneven or poorly draining ground may require more preparation.
• Type and Depth of Gravel – Decorative gravel costs more than standard options.
• Edging and Finishing Touches – Brick, timber, or stone edging adds to the final price.
• Access and Waste Removal – Limited access or the need for soil removal may increase labour costs.

For a free, no-obligation quote, contact Landmark Driveways today. We’ll assess your site and recommend the best materials and layout to suit your style and budget.

Landmark Driveways build gravel drives to last and with a simple maintenance routine, yours can stay in top condition for 20 years or more. Regular care of your gravel drive will help preserve its appearance, stability, and performance.
Recommended maintenance for gravel driveways

• Rake and level your gravel drive regularly - This will help to redistribute gravel, fill low spots, and smooth out uneven areas.
• Top up gravel as needed - Over time, gravel may compact or wash away slightly. We recommend topping up with fresh gravel every 1–2 years to maintain the correct depth and appearance.
• Control weeds - Even with a membrane, some weeds may appear. Remove them carefully by hand or apply a suitable weed killer to prevent them from spreading.
• Check edging - inspect you edging regularly and make any necessary repairs or adjustments to ensure gravel remains contained and doesn't spill into lawns or paths.
• Maintain drainage - Check drainage is working efficiently. Clear any blocked channels or drainage features installed.

The depth of gravel is crucial to creating a stable, long-lasting, and low-maintenance gravel driveway. At Landmark Driveways, we follow industry best practices to ensure your driveway is properly installed with the right depth for strength, drainage, and durability.

The recommended total depth for a gravel driveway is 150mm to 200mm (15-20cm).

A standard gravel driveway is built in three layers:

• Sub-Base Layer (100mm–150mm) - Typically made from MOT Type 1 crushed stone.
• Weed membrabe - Installed above the sub-base to prevent weed growth without affecting drainage. Helps keep gravel clean and low-maintenance.
• Gravel Surface Layer (40mm–50mm) - The top layer of gravel, usually 20mm angular gravel.

A professionally installed gravel driveway can last 20 years or more with proper preparation and occasional maintenance. At Landmark Landscaping, we build gravel driveways with high-quality materials and correct installation methods to ensure long-lasting performance, even under regular vehicle use.

Factors which will affect the lifespan of your gravel drive include the quality of the installation, the type of gravel used, good maintenance, and drainage and edging.

Proper ground preparation is the key to a durable, low-maintenance gravel driveway that lasts for years. At Landmark Driveways we follow a proven preparation process to ensure your new driveway is stable, well-drained, and resistant to movement or sinking.

Steps for Gravel Driveway preparation:

• Site Clearance and Excavation - remove all grass, topsoil, debris, and existing surfaces
• Levelling and Grading - shape the area for drainage and create a gentle slope to improve surface drainage
• Weed Control Membrance - permeable, yet prevents weeds from growing through the gravel. Reduces maintenance and keeps gravel clean.
• Lay a MOT Type 1 Sub-base - Add and compact a layer of MOT TYpe 1 crushed stone to form a solid foundation.
• Edging (optional) - install a timber, metal or stone adging to contain the gravel.
• Apply and level the gravel layer - spread the 20mm angualr gravel on top. Rake and level for an even and compact finish.

Although it is possible, generally we do not recommend this.

Choosing the right type of gravel is essential for creating a long-lasting, stable, and attractive gravel driveway. At Landmark Driveways, we use high-quality materials that offer excellent drainage, durability, and kerb appeal, tailored to suit your property and needs.

The most popular choice for driveways is 20m angular gravel. It is ideal for driveways due to its size and shape because the angular stones lock together, reducing movement under vehicle traffic. It offers excellent drainage and a firm, compact finish. Common choices include Cotswold chippings, granite chippings, and limestone gravel.