16 Dec

What are the benefits of driveway gravel?

Driveway gravel can be stylish, reliable and affordable.

The driveway is the first area of that guests will see when they turn up at your home, so making a good impression is key. With that in mind, we asked our experts why driveway gravel can be such an appealing option for your home.

It doesn’t crack or change appearance

On larger surfaces, concrete can crack over time, especially when exposed to harsh weather conditions. A concrete driveway can fade over longer periods of time too, but there isn’t such a problem with gravel. It will never deteriorate or crack, making it a good long-term option.

It looks (and sounds) great

Driveway gravel can look fantastic, and with a range of colours and styles of gravel available, you can be sure to find something that matches your home’s exterior. On top of this though, the sound of a car pulling up on gravel is also nice and can actually alert you to visitors or even intruders.

It’s weather resistant

Driveway gravel will look great in all weathers and unlike tarmac, it won’t require extra drainage to cope with wetter conditions. Driveway grids can provide enough drainage and help you avoid surface flooding, too.

It’s affordable

Driveway gravel can be a lot cheaper than concrete or asphalt, especially if you have a large surface that you’re looking to cover. Check out our path and driveway materials for more info on the products that we have available.

To find out more about the range of products we offer, from building materials and decorative stones to shingle & gravel and driveway materials, contact our team today on 01258 857465 or take a look at our special offers!

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25 Oct

How to build the perfect gravel garden

A gravel garden is an excellent low maintenance option that is relatively easy to prepare and design. Follow these guiding steps and you’ll have the perfect gravel garden in no time! How to prepare the ground for a gravel garden Before you think about laying any gravel, you’re going to need to prepare the ground correctly: Remove all plants, including weeds, from the area that your gravel garden will take up. If you want to keep any of the plants you remove, make sure that you don’t sever their roots and place them in planting pots for temporary storage whilst you finish your gravel garden. Add manure or compost in order to improve the fertility of the soil. Dig around 10cm deep using a rake or till in order to mix the compost and soil together. If you encounter any large stones, set them aside – you might want to incorporate them as a decorative stones in your gravel garden! Dig and install a border to separate your gravel garden from the rest of your lawn. You should look to dig around 10-15cm deep and install your edging so that it’s level with or just above the ground - this will help with drainage. Please note that this step is only necessary for dense soil types, such as clay. Install a weed membrane. Simply measure the area required and cut the weed membrane to size, leaving around 7.5cm overlap on each edge of your gravel garden. You should then weigh the edges of the membrane down using rocks or landscaping staples. How to create your gravel garden Choose the garden gravel you want to use. Check out your local gravel suppliers to select the type of gravel you want to use for your gravel garden. Please note that around 40kg of 20mm gravel will cover one square metre at 2 inches deep. If your gravel garden is unevenly shaped, then measure a square around it and save leftover gravel for filling in any holes that appear later in the year. Place your plants in the desired positions. Once you’ve grouped your plants into the desired locations on your gravel garden, cut individual squares into the membrane large enough for each plants' roots once the flaps are folded back. Then, place the plants into their allotted section and fold the flaps back over the top of the soil before watering generously. Lay the gravel. Before you begin spreading your gravel, make sure that you place your focal points first, such as any large rocks or pots, wherever you want them. After these have been placed, you can commence spreading the garden gravel evenly over the membrane using a rake. Follow these steps and you'll be left with the perfect gravel garden to show off to your friends and family. We are your leading local gravel suppliers in Dorset. Browse our range of products online, available for delivery and collection, or contact our team today with any enquiries on 01258 857465.

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30 Nov

Why you should consider driveway gravel

Your driveway is the first thing that a guest will encounter when approaching your home, which is why you want it to look good. Installing driveway gravel is a great cost-effective way to leave an impression and has a host of other benefits too. Attractive Driveway gravel looks more natural compared to alternatives such as tarmac and brick, which can run the risk of looking industrial. Driveway gravel holds a rural charm which can add a lot of character to both countryside and city homes. The addition of driveway gravel seems to compliment nature rather than suffocate it. We supply a broad range of driveway gravel in a range of colours and sizes, which means that chances are you’ll find the right gravel to compliment your home exterior in our store. Cost-effective Driveway gravel is the most pocket-friendly option for filling driveways around. Not only is the installation of driveway gravel quick and cheap, it will also save you money in the long run, as maintenance costs are incredibly low. Unlike tarmac or brick, driveway gravel will not crack, and outside of rarely filling in holes with more low-cost gravel, it will last forever. Weather Resistant Other driveway options, like concrete and tarmac, react negatively to dramatic changes in temperature like frost, heavy rain and intense sunlight. Severe weather will often cause them to crack, especially when they cover a large surface area and they will end up fading in colour over time. This is why driveway gravel is a fantastic option, as it is pretty much impervious to the weather and requires no extra drainage assistance. All in all, driveway gravel is a fantastic option when it comes to laying your driveway that should not be overlooked. To find out more about the range of products we offer, from building materials and decorative stones to shingle & gravel and driveway materials, contact our team today on 01258 857465 or take a look at our special offers!

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23 Oct

Gardening tasks for Autumn

There’s plenty to do to prepare your garden during autumn for the impending winter, and indeed for next year. There are some things you simply won’t be able to do once the cold and wet does really set in. Clearing Leaves Probably the most obvious autumn job is to clear the leaves that will inevitable drop into your garden during this time of year. One trick for clearing leaves off your lawn is to run them over with your lawn mower, thereby shredding them and causing them to rot quicker. This simple technique is by far the easiest way to keep your lawn looking tidy, and should be done about once a week. For patios, paths, decking and other hard surfaces, it may be worth investing in a leaf blower. This one off purchase will make your life immeasurably easier, and will be well worth the cost. Blow the leaves onto the lawn and run them over when mowing, or alternatively blow them onto some tarpaulin to be collected up and added to your compost heap. You can even put the leaves in jars on their own, allowing them to form a fine kind of compost known as leaf mould. Protect Your Plants Of course there are plenty of hardier plants that will easily withstand the British winter, but it’s a good idea to bring indoors your more tender plants around this time of year. Once the frost comes, they’ll inevitably die if left outside. Turn Your Compost Heap All the tidying up will, of course, produce lots of material to be added to the heap, but it’s important to remember that the rate of decomposition will decrease in the colder months ahead. Turn the contents regularly to encourage them to rot down quickly. By following these simple steps, you can ensure your garden is spruced up and ready to brave the winter! To find out more about the range of products we offer, from building materials and decorative stones to shingle & gravel, soils and landscaping products, contact our team today on 01258 857465 or take a look at our special offers!

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Most Recent Stories

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!

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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.

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9 Apr

Your Projects Brought to Life: Before and After Using Our Gravel

Selecting the right gravel for your property can significantly affect appearance, durability, drainage and maintenance. At MB Wilkes, we specialise in supplying and installing high‑quality primary sands and gravels - from decorative shingle and chippings to robust planings and crushed stone - tailored to the unique requirements of every customer. With decades of experience serving homeowners, property managers and businesses across the UK, we understand how material choice, particle size and finish can transform driveways, pathways, patios and more. In this blog, we’ll showcase some recent projects, with images courtesy of CW Stanley who executed the work using our products. With an array of options available, our aggregates will deliver lasting results, enhancing kerb appeal while offering excellent value for money. New Driveway in Merley, Wimborne What a difference a day makes! In Merley, Wimborne, CW Stanley transformed a tired tarmac driveway into a crisp, low‑maintenance surface in just one day. After removing the existing worn surfacing and installing a durable geotextile membrane for weed control and drainage, their team laid a neat charcoal block‑paving edge before spreading our 20 mm Dorset Limestone chippings. The result is an attractive, uniform finish that enhances kerb appeal, improves water runoff and eliminates patch repairs. The customer chose Dorset Limestone chippings for their hard‑wearing quality, natural appearance and cost‑effective longevity - a perfect solution for a hassle‑free driveway upgrade. A Mega Undertaking in Poole, Dorset A mega driveway transformation in Poole, Dorset, was completed in just 1.5 days using our 20 mm Ice Blue decorative gravel, laid over a geotextile membrane to ensure excellent drainage and weed suppression. Crisp concrete kerb stones neatly define the driveway’s boundary, while a smooth asphalt parking bay provides a practical contrast. The finished surface delivers striking kerb appeal, low maintenance and long‑term durability for two neighbouring properties. By combining MB Wilkes’ premium Ice Blue chippings with CW Stanley’s efficient installation, this project achieved exceptional value, performance and a standout aesthetic in record time. A Beautiful Result in Poole, Dorset What a beautiful frontage this is now! CW Stanley completed a stunning driveway transformation this week at a property in Poole, Dorset. After removing the old, uneven gravel and preparing a stable, compacted sub‑base with a geotextile membrane for superior drainage and weed control, crisp grey block paving was installed to define the driveway’s perimeter. Our 20 mm Polar Ice decorative chippings, were laid to a uniform depth, delivering a striking, low‑maintenance finish. The work significantly improved kerb appeal while extending and boosting practical performance - all achieved in minimal time, at exceptional value. A Tasteful Finish in Colehill, Wimborne In just two days, CW Stanley completed a tasteful driveway and frontage transformation at a property in Colehill, Wimborne. After removing old paving and uneven gravel, the team installed a compacted sub‑base topped with a geotextile membrane for superior drainage and weed suppression. Concrete block‑paving edging defines the perimeter, creating a neat, professional finish. Our team supplied 20 mm Quantock Grey decorative chippings, which were laid to a consistent depth to deliver a striking, low‑maintenance surface. The result is enhanced kerb appeal, excellent durability and a practical, value‑adding upgrade. Why Should You Choose MB Wilkes? When it comes to sourcing high‑quality aggregates, MB Wilkes stands head and shoulders above the competition. As a family‑owned sand and gravel quarry based in Dorset, we combine decades of local expertise with the largest product range on the market - from decorative gravels and garden stones to specialist sands, soils and construction materials. Our team of aggregate specialists possesses unrivalled knowledge, enabling us to recommend exactly the right material for any project, whether you’re a homeowner upgrading your driveway or a national developer specifying bulk supplies. MB Wilkes’ reputation for excellence extends across councils, utility companies, sports grounds and public landscaping schemes, reflecting our ability to deliver consistently outstanding service to clients of every scale. Thanks to our strong industry relationships, we offer competitive, transparent pricing without compromising on quality - meaning you benefit from premium materials at the best value. We also make waste disposal straightforward with our inert tip facility, while our versatile fleet of tipper lorries and grab trucks ensures precise, reliable deliveries direct to your site. Above all, our commitment to exceptional customer service means clear communication, punctual delivery and meticulous attention to detail from enquiry through to completion. Whatever your aggregate requirements, MB Wilkes guarantees the highest quality products, unbeatable expertise and complete peace of mind - all delivered from the heart of Dorset. Get in Touch With the Experts Ready to transform your project? Browse MB Wilkes’ full range of decorative aggregates, garden stones, sands and soils on our website and place your order in minutes. For personalised advice, competitive quotes or any enquiries, simply give our friendly team a call on 01258 857465 or complete our quick contact form. Whether you need delivery to your doorstep or guidance choosing the perfect product, we’re here to help - offering expert support, transparent pricing and reliable service across Dorset and beyond. Don’t wait - get in touch with MB Wilkes today and discover why we’re the UK’s leading supplier of high‑quality aggregates now.

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