3 Jun

MB Wilkes sponsor local West Moors festival

Westival is an annual event that is aimed at bringing the local community together, held in the centre of West Moors on Fryer Field from 12pm - 4pm.

For MB Wilkes, sponsoring Westival is a great way to give something back to the community. We're looking forward to a fun day out; plus, we'll be bringing some fun activities for families to get involved with!

Activities at Westival

Throughout the afternoon there will be loads of things for family to do at Westival, with live music, entertainment, games, ferret racing and fairground rides – to name a few.

MB Wilkes will be sponsoring the shade gazebos situated near the music truck – the perfect location for us to be a central part of the action!

We'll also be bringing two large MB Wilkes lorries along to the event, giving little ones a chance to sit in the cab. Plus, children will also be able to take away their very own hi-vis vest, complete with branded MB Wilkes logo!

Each year the event is a real hit, and we can't wait for another excellent afternoon of activities and fun.

Entry to Westival is free and you can take a look at the event page for more information about what to expect on the day!

M B Wilkes – Local, Family-Run Business

At MB Wilkes, we love being a part of the local community, and as a family-run quarry we're always looking for ways to get involved in events across Dorset.

Our business centres around supplying aggregates and building materials throughout the county, supplying gravel, sand, stones and topsoil across different industries.

To hire our services, or find out more about what we do, give us a call on 01258 857465 or send us a message via our contact form.

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29 May

Gravel Driveways: Pros, Cons, and Choosing the Right Type

Is your driveway due for an upgrade, but you’re unsure where to start? Imagine a clean, attractive entrance to your home, edged with colourful plants and crunching softly underfoot. If that sounds like your kind of welcome, a gravel driveway could be exactly what you need. Whether you're dealing with cracked concrete, surface puddles, or just want something with a bit more character, we understand the challenge. This guide covers the pros and cons of gravel driveways, shows you how to choose the right one, and gives practical tips to keep it looking fantastic. At MB Wilkes, we supply high-quality materials and expert advice to help you every step of the way in creating a modern gravel driveway. The Upsides of Gravel Driveways When it comes to practical, stylish drive solutions, gravelled driveways tick a lot of boxes. They’re affordable, easy to maintain, and endlessly customisable. With so much going for them, it’s easy to see why gravel is such a popular material. Here’s why a stone driveway might be the right choice: Affordability: One of the most cost-effective surfacing options. You’ll save money on both materials and installation. Low Maintenance: No need for sealing or power washing. A simple rake and occasional top-up is often enough. Visual Versatility: From rustic Cotswold chippings to sleek basalt, there's something to suit every home. Weather Resistance: Gravel holds up beautifully in both scorching sun and frosty winters. Added Security: The crunch of tyres or footsteps on gravel can help alert you to visitors (welcome or not). Explore our wide range of driveway gravel, shingle and pebbles to discover your perfect match. The Drawbacks of Gravel Driveways Now, let’s look at the other side. While modern gravel driveways offer plenty of perks, they’re not entirely hassle-free. It’s worth considering the cons of gravel, as this could very well highlight a possible dealbreaker that might make an alternative option more appealing. Dust: Especially in dry conditions, dust can kick up with passing vehicles. This can settle on cars, windows, and nearby plants. Stone Shifting: Over time, gravel can migrate and form dips, ridges, or even bare patches. Weed Growth: Weeds can push through the surface if not properly managed. Loose Stones Underfoot: Smaller gravel pieces can get caught in shoes or dragged into your home. Not Ideal for Snow or Ice: In winter, clearing snow or ice from a gravel surface is trickier than with tarmac or paving. Popular Gravel Types for UK Driveways At MB Wilkes, we stock a variety of types of gravel for driveways and more. We have decorative aggregates that suit different styles and needs, such as blue slate. Blue Slate has a subtle grey-blue tone that shifts with the light, making it ideal for a cool, contemporary stone driveway. Shingle is the classic choice, offering a golden hue with flecks of black and white. It blends beautifully with traditional and countryside homes. Or you might opt for Red Granite which stands out with a bold, warm terracotta tone. It’s hard-wearing and perfect for high-traffic areas. Another great option is Cotswold Chippings with their creamy gold finish, great for softening the look of a property and adding that rural charm. Or there’s Recycled Gravel, which is the sustainable option. Made from crushed concrete or asphalt, it’s eco-conscious, tough, and still great-looking. You can view our full gravel range here and see which style works best for your driveway. How to Choose the Right Gravel for Your Driveway With so many options, narrowing down your ideal gravel takes a bit of thought. Here’s what we recommend considering when weighing up the pros and cons of gravel driveways: Size Matters: Larger stones (e.g. 20mm) are better for driveways as they lock together more securely. Match Your Home’s Style: Go for something warm and natural for cottages, or a clean grey for modern looks. Consider Durability: High-traffic areas need tougher, more compact gravel like red granite or basalt. Think Drainage: Most gravelled driveways are naturally permeable, but layering properly ensures no puddling. Still unsure? Get in touch for tailored advice – we’re happy to help you choose. How to Maintain Your Gravel Driveway Even the most low-maintenance option needs a bit of care. If you’re wondering how to make a gravel driveway solid, it’s all about regular upkeep. Rake it often to keep the stones evenly distributed. Keep a bag or two of the same gravel on hand to fill in any low spots. And make sure to stay on top of weeds by using a membrane underneath and treating growth as it appears. Whether you prefer a rustic feel or a modern gravel driveway, proper maintenance will keep it looking fresh for years. Get in Touch and Start Planning Your Modern Gravel Driveway Ready to transform your driveway with a beautiful new finish? At MB Wilkes, we’re here to make it easy. Whether you’re starting from scratch or refreshing an existing surface, we supply everything you need – including expert advice, small load collections, small load delivery, and a full range of gravel types to suit any look. We’ve been family owned for over 60 years, and we’re proud to be one of the UK’s leading names in landscaping materials. Great service, top quality products, and competitive prices come as standard. To speak with our friendly team, give us a call on 01258 857465 or send us a message via our contact form. We’d love to help you design a modern gravel driveway that looks fantastic and lasts for years.

Read more

13 May

MB Wilkes sponsors this year's Corfe Mullen Carnival

Step right up, ladies and gentlemen, for a day of fun and thrills at Corfe Mullen Carnival! First held in 1967, the Corfe Mullen Carnival is an excitement-packed day out with something for all the family to enjoy. We’re proud to announce that MB Wilkes are the Principal Sponsors at this year's event! Mark your calendars for Saturday June 14th 2025, as the carnival extravaganza takes centre stage in Corfe Mullen Recreation Ground. The festivities kick off with a lively street procession from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm. Once you arrive at the event grounds, prepare to be captivated by an array of stands, competitions, and live performances starting at 1 pm. You especially won't want to miss the spectacular dog show. But there's more to the Corfe Mullen Carnival than just a day of fun. This year, the carnival is supporting Lewis-Manning Hospice Care, The Friends of Springdale School, Millstream Theatre, and a further defibrillator for Corfe Mullen. We hope everyone has an amazing time at the Carnival this year. Looking forward to seeing you all there!

Read more

13 May

The Ultimate Guide to Using Decorative Stones in Your Garden

Looking to refresh your outdoor space but unsure where to start? Picture a garden with structure, texture and colour, all brought to life with the clever use of decorative stones. From pebbles and gravel to slate and shingle, these versatile materials offer endless landscaping ideas to suit every style and function. In this ultimate guide, we’ll share practical, expert-backed tips for landscaping with decorative stones - helping you overcome common challenges and choose the right solution with help from our quality products and knowledgeable team. Types of Decorative Stones and Their Best Uses When it comes to landscaping with aggregates, it’s important to understand which type of decorative stone suits your space and how each material performs. While they all offer visual appeal, different stones bring different benefits - and some limitations too. Here’s a closer look at four of the most popular choices. Pebbles Naturally smooth and rounded, coloured pebbles are gentle underfoot, making them a great option for garden paths when paired with landscape fabric. They're equally effective around water features, in plant pots, or as soft-edged borders that help define different areas of your garden. Their texture adds subtle contrast, but they’re best avoided for driveways as they shift easily under pressure. Gravel and Shingle Gravel and shingle are among the most durable and cost-effective materials for outdoor spaces. Their rough surface provides grip, making them ideal for driveways and garden paths. They don’t crack or sink like other hard surfaces, and they’re also excellent for improving drainage, particularly in areas prone to waterlogging. We often recommend rainbow shingle to enhance water features with eye-catching colour. Slate Slate offers a bold, contemporary finish. Its flat, angular pieces work well in borders and around patio edges or ponds, where they bring a striking, modern aesthetic. However, slate is too sharp and brittle for driveways and may damage tyres over time. Stone Paving For those looking to create a dining or seating area, natural stone paving is a solid choice. It’s flat, durable, and available in a range of finishes to suit every garden design. Perfect for patios and entertaining outdoors. We supply a wide selection of decorative stones for gardens. Ideas, advice, and support - we’re always here to help at MB Wilkes. Design and Styling Ideas When it comes to landscaping with decorative stones, the right design choices can completely transform your garden. Here are some creative, practical ways to use stones to enhance both style and structure: Garden Zoning with Colour: Use different coloured stones to mark out distinct zones in your garden – perfect for separating a natural, wildlife-friendly area from a neat, structured space. Light and dark stones can be used to create contrast, helping to highlight your planting choices and give each section its own identity. Paths and Walkways: Pebbles or gravel make attractive, low-maintenance paths. For a more polished look, add stepping stones or edging to define the route. This not only guides foot traffic but can also give the illusion of a longer, more spacious garden. Borders: Decorative stones form clean, natural borders around flowerbeds and along paths. For a coastal-inspired feel, rounded coloured pebbles are ideal, while Cotswold cobbles create a traditional, countryside finish. Both options help contain planting while adding character. Water Features: Rainbow shingle or smooth pebbles enhance the visual appeal and sound of any water feature. Whether it's a pond, fountain, or stream, stones add colour and definition while supporting the natural look of your setup. Driveways: For a functional and stylish entrance, gravel or shingle is an affordable alternative to tarmac. Popular choices include golden shingle for a warm, traditional look, blue slate for a modern touch, or limestone for a more refined finish. We supply only the best pebbles for garden use, tailored to suit every style and purpose. Functional Benefits Landscaping with decorative stones isn’t just about looks - it offers real, long-lasting benefits too. Here are three practical reasons to consider landscaping with aggregates in your garden: Drainage: Gravel and shingle are excellent for managing excess water. If you’ve got soggy patches on your lawn, waterlogged flowerbeds, or areas near buildings prone to pooling, these materials help water drain away efficiently, protecting both plant health and property foundations. Weed Control: Decorative stones provide a natural barrier against unwanted growth. When laid over geotextile fabric, they form a strong layer that blocks sunlight and prevents weeds from taking hold, reducing the need for constant maintenance. Soil Protection: Heavy rain can wash away topsoil, especially in beds and pots. A covering of decorative stone helps anchor soil in place, reducing erosion while keeping your garden looking tidy. All practical, all simple, and all part of thoughtful, effective landscaping with decorative stones. Feature Ideas: The Rockery If you're looking for low-maintenance landscaping ideas with maximum impact, a rockery is a brilliant choice. Combining stones of different sizes with hardy alpine plants, a well-placed rockery brings texture, colour and natural structure to your garden. Choose a sunny, well-drained spot and take time to pre-arrange your rocks before planting to make sure the layout feels balanced. Plants like crocuses, tulips and dianthuses add seasonal bursts of colour and are easy to care for. With minimal upkeep and lasting visual appeal, a rockery is a timeless feature that works beautifully in gardens of all sizes. Get Expert Help Choosing the Right Decorative Stones for Your Garden Decorative stones offer style, structure and real practicality, from low maintenance surfaces to improved drainage and effective weed control. Whether you're after bold borders, a new path or a full garden refresh, landscaping with decorative stones is a smart, versatile choice. We’ve been a trusted, family-run quarry for over 60 years, supplying quality materials at competitive prices. Call us on 01258 857465 or use our contact form for expert advice tailored to your project.

Read more

Most Recent Stories

29 May

Gravel Driveways: Pros, Cons, and Choosing the Right Type

Is your driveway due for an upgrade, but you’re unsure where to start? Imagine a clean, attractive entrance to your home, edged with colourful plants and crunching softly underfoot. If that sounds like your kind of welcome, a gravel driveway could be exactly what you need. Whether you're dealing with cracked concrete, surface puddles, or just want something with a bit more character, we understand the challenge. This guide covers the pros and cons of gravel driveways, shows you how to choose the right one, and gives practical tips to keep it looking fantastic. At MB Wilkes, we supply high-quality materials and expert advice to help you every step of the way in creating a modern gravel driveway. The Upsides of Gravel Driveways When it comes to practical, stylish drive solutions, gravelled driveways tick a lot of boxes. They’re affordable, easy to maintain, and endlessly customisable. With so much going for them, it’s easy to see why gravel is such a popular material. Here’s why a stone driveway might be the right choice: Affordability: One of the most cost-effective surfacing options. You’ll save money on both materials and installation. Low Maintenance: No need for sealing or power washing. A simple rake and occasional top-up is often enough. Visual Versatility: From rustic Cotswold chippings to sleek basalt, there's something to suit every home. Weather Resistance: Gravel holds up beautifully in both scorching sun and frosty winters. Added Security: The crunch of tyres or footsteps on gravel can help alert you to visitors (welcome or not). Explore our wide range of driveway gravel, shingle and pebbles to discover your perfect match. The Drawbacks of Gravel Driveways Now, let’s look at the other side. While modern gravel driveways offer plenty of perks, they’re not entirely hassle-free. It’s worth considering the cons of gravel, as this could very well highlight a possible dealbreaker that might make an alternative option more appealing. Dust: Especially in dry conditions, dust can kick up with passing vehicles. This can settle on cars, windows, and nearby plants. Stone Shifting: Over time, gravel can migrate and form dips, ridges, or even bare patches. Weed Growth: Weeds can push through the surface if not properly managed. Loose Stones Underfoot: Smaller gravel pieces can get caught in shoes or dragged into your home. Not Ideal for Snow or Ice: In winter, clearing snow or ice from a gravel surface is trickier than with tarmac or paving. Popular Gravel Types for UK Driveways At MB Wilkes, we stock a variety of types of gravel for driveways and more. We have decorative aggregates that suit different styles and needs, such as blue slate. Blue Slate has a subtle grey-blue tone that shifts with the light, making it ideal for a cool, contemporary stone driveway. Shingle is the classic choice, offering a golden hue with flecks of black and white. It blends beautifully with traditional and countryside homes. Or you might opt for Red Granite which stands out with a bold, warm terracotta tone. It’s hard-wearing and perfect for high-traffic areas. Another great option is Cotswold Chippings with their creamy gold finish, great for softening the look of a property and adding that rural charm. Or there’s Recycled Gravel, which is the sustainable option. Made from crushed concrete or asphalt, it’s eco-conscious, tough, and still great-looking. You can view our full gravel range here and see which style works best for your driveway. How to Choose the Right Gravel for Your Driveway With so many options, narrowing down your ideal gravel takes a bit of thought. Here’s what we recommend considering when weighing up the pros and cons of gravel driveways: Size Matters: Larger stones (e.g. 20mm) are better for driveways as they lock together more securely. Match Your Home’s Style: Go for something warm and natural for cottages, or a clean grey for modern looks. Consider Durability: High-traffic areas need tougher, more compact gravel like red granite or basalt. Think Drainage: Most gravelled driveways are naturally permeable, but layering properly ensures no puddling. Still unsure? Get in touch for tailored advice – we’re happy to help you choose. How to Maintain Your Gravel Driveway Even the most low-maintenance option needs a bit of care. If you’re wondering how to make a gravel driveway solid, it’s all about regular upkeep. Rake it often to keep the stones evenly distributed. Keep a bag or two of the same gravel on hand to fill in any low spots. And make sure to stay on top of weeds by using a membrane underneath and treating growth as it appears. Whether you prefer a rustic feel or a modern gravel driveway, proper maintenance will keep it looking fresh for years. Get in Touch and Start Planning Your Modern Gravel Driveway Ready to transform your driveway with a beautiful new finish? At MB Wilkes, we’re here to make it easy. Whether you’re starting from scratch or refreshing an existing surface, we supply everything you need – including expert advice, small load collections, small load delivery, and a full range of gravel types to suit any look. We’ve been family owned for over 60 years, and we’re proud to be one of the UK’s leading names in landscaping materials. Great service, top quality products, and competitive prices come as standard. To speak with our friendly team, give us a call on 01258 857465 or send us a message via our contact form. We’d love to help you design a modern gravel driveway that looks fantastic and lasts for years.

Read more

13 May

MB Wilkes sponsors this year's Corfe Mullen Carnival

Step right up, ladies and gentlemen, for a day of fun and thrills at Corfe Mullen Carnival! First held in 1967, the Corfe Mullen Carnival is an excitement-packed day out with something for all the family to enjoy. We’re proud to announce that MB Wilkes are the Principal Sponsors at this year's event! Mark your calendars for Saturday June 14th 2025, as the carnival extravaganza takes centre stage in Corfe Mullen Recreation Ground. The festivities kick off with a lively street procession from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm. Once you arrive at the event grounds, prepare to be captivated by an array of stands, competitions, and live performances starting at 1 pm. You especially won't want to miss the spectacular dog show. But there's more to the Corfe Mullen Carnival than just a day of fun. This year, the carnival is supporting Lewis-Manning Hospice Care, The Friends of Springdale School, Millstream Theatre, and a further defibrillator for Corfe Mullen. We hope everyone has an amazing time at the Carnival this year. Looking forward to seeing you all there!

Read more

13 May

The Ultimate Guide to Using Decorative Stones in Your Garden

Looking to refresh your outdoor space but unsure where to start? Picture a garden with structure, texture and colour, all brought to life with the clever use of decorative stones. From pebbles and gravel to slate and shingle, these versatile materials offer endless landscaping ideas to suit every style and function. In this ultimate guide, we’ll share practical, expert-backed tips for landscaping with decorative stones - helping you overcome common challenges and choose the right solution with help from our quality products and knowledgeable team. Types of Decorative Stones and Their Best Uses When it comes to landscaping with aggregates, it’s important to understand which type of decorative stone suits your space and how each material performs. While they all offer visual appeal, different stones bring different benefits - and some limitations too. Here’s a closer look at four of the most popular choices. Pebbles Naturally smooth and rounded, coloured pebbles are gentle underfoot, making them a great option for garden paths when paired with landscape fabric. They're equally effective around water features, in plant pots, or as soft-edged borders that help define different areas of your garden. Their texture adds subtle contrast, but they’re best avoided for driveways as they shift easily under pressure. Gravel and Shingle Gravel and shingle are among the most durable and cost-effective materials for outdoor spaces. Their rough surface provides grip, making them ideal for driveways and garden paths. They don’t crack or sink like other hard surfaces, and they’re also excellent for improving drainage, particularly in areas prone to waterlogging. We often recommend rainbow shingle to enhance water features with eye-catching colour. Slate Slate offers a bold, contemporary finish. Its flat, angular pieces work well in borders and around patio edges or ponds, where they bring a striking, modern aesthetic. However, slate is too sharp and brittle for driveways and may damage tyres over time. Stone Paving For those looking to create a dining or seating area, natural stone paving is a solid choice. It’s flat, durable, and available in a range of finishes to suit every garden design. Perfect for patios and entertaining outdoors. We supply a wide selection of decorative stones for gardens. Ideas, advice, and support - we’re always here to help at MB Wilkes. Design and Styling Ideas When it comes to landscaping with decorative stones, the right design choices can completely transform your garden. Here are some creative, practical ways to use stones to enhance both style and structure: Garden Zoning with Colour: Use different coloured stones to mark out distinct zones in your garden – perfect for separating a natural, wildlife-friendly area from a neat, structured space. Light and dark stones can be used to create contrast, helping to highlight your planting choices and give each section its own identity. Paths and Walkways: Pebbles or gravel make attractive, low-maintenance paths. For a more polished look, add stepping stones or edging to define the route. This not only guides foot traffic but can also give the illusion of a longer, more spacious garden. Borders: Decorative stones form clean, natural borders around flowerbeds and along paths. For a coastal-inspired feel, rounded coloured pebbles are ideal, while Cotswold cobbles create a traditional, countryside finish. Both options help contain planting while adding character. Water Features: Rainbow shingle or smooth pebbles enhance the visual appeal and sound of any water feature. Whether it's a pond, fountain, or stream, stones add colour and definition while supporting the natural look of your setup. Driveways: For a functional and stylish entrance, gravel or shingle is an affordable alternative to tarmac. Popular choices include golden shingle for a warm, traditional look, blue slate for a modern touch, or limestone for a more refined finish. We supply only the best pebbles for garden use, tailored to suit every style and purpose. Functional Benefits Landscaping with decorative stones isn’t just about looks - it offers real, long-lasting benefits too. Here are three practical reasons to consider landscaping with aggregates in your garden: Drainage: Gravel and shingle are excellent for managing excess water. If you’ve got soggy patches on your lawn, waterlogged flowerbeds, or areas near buildings prone to pooling, these materials help water drain away efficiently, protecting both plant health and property foundations. Weed Control: Decorative stones provide a natural barrier against unwanted growth. When laid over geotextile fabric, they form a strong layer that blocks sunlight and prevents weeds from taking hold, reducing the need for constant maintenance. Soil Protection: Heavy rain can wash away topsoil, especially in beds and pots. A covering of decorative stone helps anchor soil in place, reducing erosion while keeping your garden looking tidy. All practical, all simple, and all part of thoughtful, effective landscaping with decorative stones. Feature Ideas: The Rockery If you're looking for low-maintenance landscaping ideas with maximum impact, a rockery is a brilliant choice. Combining stones of different sizes with hardy alpine plants, a well-placed rockery brings texture, colour and natural structure to your garden. Choose a sunny, well-drained spot and take time to pre-arrange your rocks before planting to make sure the layout feels balanced. Plants like crocuses, tulips and dianthuses add seasonal bursts of colour and are easy to care for. With minimal upkeep and lasting visual appeal, a rockery is a timeless feature that works beautifully in gardens of all sizes. Get Expert Help Choosing the Right Decorative Stones for Your Garden Decorative stones offer style, structure and real practicality, from low maintenance surfaces to improved drainage and effective weed control. Whether you're after bold borders, a new path or a full garden refresh, landscaping with decorative stones is a smart, versatile choice. We’ve been a trusted, family-run quarry for over 60 years, supplying quality materials at competitive prices. Call us on 01258 857465 or use our contact form for expert advice tailored to your project.

Read more