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Premium gravel driveways - installations built to last!
Why choose Driveways Plus as your gravel contractors?
Expert gravel installation across Bristol, Bath, South West, South Wales and Thames Valley
We’ve seen plenty of gravel driveways done badly. Stones spreading onto the road. Ruts forming where cars turn. Weeds popping through within months. It’s enough to put anyone off.
The thing is, none of these problems are inevitable. They’re the result of shortcuts and inexperience. When we install a gravel driveway, we do it properly. That means:
Professional groundwork
We excavate to the right depth, compact the sub-base thoroughly, and install quality membrane that actually stops weeds. No skipping steps to save time.
Proper drainage design
Your driveway needs to shed water away from your property while staying SuDS-compliant. We make sure it does both.
The right materials
Not all gravel is created equal. We’ll recommend the best type and size for your specific situation, whether you’re parking a single car or accommodating delivery vehicles regularly.
Expert finishing
From edging that keeps stones where they belong to proper compaction that prevents rutting, we handle every detail.
All our work comes backed by full insurance, professional accreditations, and a comprehensive guarantee. You’ll never be asked for an upfront deposit, and we don’t cut corners. Ever.
How we install gravel driveways that last...
We’ve installed over 500 driveways throughout the South West, South Wales and Thames Valley.
From Bath’s Georgian crescents to Bristol’s suburban developments and Gloucestershire’s rural villages – we understand local conditions, architectural styles, and planning requirements. Here’s what happens when you choose us:
1. Free design consultation
Site assessment, requirement discussion, and material samples. Detailed quote with transparent pricing and no hidden costs.
2. Professional site preparation
200mm depth excavation removing existing surfaces and creating proper drainage falls. Cable avoidance tools used. All utilities checked before digging starts.
3. Foundation engineering
150mm MOT Type 1 sub-base laid and compacted in layers for optimal load-bearing. This foundation work determines your driveway’s lifespan.
Did you know? In domestic landscaping jobs, 80% of costs go on labour, with only 20% on materials. That’s why proper installation matters more than material choice.
4. Weed prevention and edging
Permeable weed membrane installation plus your chosen edging system. Options include reclaimed brick, natural stone, or contemporary steel restraints.
5. Surface installation and finishing
50mm of selected gravel carefully spread and levelled. Optional stabilisation grids for enhanced performance and reduced maintenance.
Typical completion: 2-3 days for residential driveways
Full regulatory compliance included:
- SuDS documentation handled
- Planning permission guidance provided
- Building control liaison where required
- Full public liability insurance
- Fully qualified operatives for all work
100% Customer satisfaction
Heritage Property Transformation
Gravel case study: Sneyd Park, Bristol
The Challenge:
A beautiful Victorian villa in Sneyd Park, Bristol needed an entrance worthy of its 1880’s heritage. The existing tarmac driveway clashed terribly with the property’s elegant stonework.
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The owners had tolerated the stark black surface for years, but it dominated the frontage and felt completely wrong. They needed something that looked period-appropriate whilst meeting modern drainage regulations and standing up to daily family use.
The brief was clear: create an entrance that looked like it had always been there, not a modern addition trying too hard.
Our Solution:
Ben’s site consultation led to a bespoke multi-material design using Brett Alpha Antique block paving borders with gravel infill that matched the property’s character.
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Walking the space with the owners, we developed an approach that married traditional aesthetics with contemporary engineering. The warm, aged-finish pavers complement the stonework beautifully.
The permeable gravel surface delivered excellent drainage without planning permission complications.
Heritage boundary walls were carefully rebuilt, incorporating original flints, whilst a natural sandstone entrance threshold, framed with block paver detailing, created an elegant transition from pavement to property.
The Outcome:
Completed in under two weeks with zero overrun and minimal disruption. Mrs Morgan described it as “honestly better than we could have ever hoped for, thank you Ben and the team.”
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The transformation exceeded expectations completely. The new entrance now suits the property’s character whilst delivering excellent drainage and durability. Neighbours regularly stop to admire the work, asking who did it.
More importantly, our clients now pull onto their drive with genuine pride rather than quiet disappointment. It’s an entrance that feels like it’s always belonged to this beautiful Victorian home.
Not sure if stone is right for you? That’s exactly why we offer free, no-obligation site visits. We’ll assess your property, discuss your needs, and recommend the best solution, even if that’s not gravel.
What makes a gravel driveway right for your property?
Gravel works brilliantly for most situations, from period properties in Bath’s conservation areas to modern homes in Swindon’s newer developments.
It’s particularly suited to:
- Properties where planning permission could be complicated
- Rural and suburban homes seeking a natural aesthetic
- Driveways with good natural drainage
- Anyone wanting quality results without premium prices
- Properties where quick installation matters
It may be less suitable if you have a steep slope (though we can work around this with proper edging and potentially gravel grids), or if you’re looking for the ultra-smooth surface that resin or tarmac provides.
Environmental Research Data
Some popular aggregate options
We work with trusted regional suppliers because local materials often perform better (and cost less to transport). Here’s some of our customers favourite gravel options.
Premium crushed stone (14-20mm)
The gold standard for vehicle traffic. Angular pieces lock together beautifully, creating stability that won’t shift under car weight. Available in:
- Golden gravel: Warm amber tones that complement red brick perfectly
- Cotswold buff: Classic cream limestone for period charm
- Charcoal granite: Contemporary dark finish for modern aesthetics
- Dove grey limestone: Versatile neutral that suits any style
Specialist applications
- Pea gravel (10mm): Smooth, rounded stones for edging and pedestrian areas
- Marble chips: Premium white finish with subtle shimmer (higher maintenance but stunning results)
- Self-binding gravel: Contains natural fines that compact into a firmer surface
- Granite chippings: Extremely durable with green, red, and charcoal options
Resin bonded gravel
The best of both worlds. Natural gravel appearance with enhanced stability – individual stones bonded to prevent migration. Perfect for sloped driveways or wheelchair access requirements.
Struggling to visualise the result? We bring samples to your consultation. See exactly how each option complements your property before deciding.
Gravel Driveway FAQs
What's the difference between gravel and resin bonded gravel?
Traditional loose gravel provides the classic look and sound but requires occasional maintenance (raking, topping up). Resin bonded gravel fixes individual stones in place – no migration, wheelchair accessible, but loses the traditional character.
Do I need planning permission for a gravel driveway?
Typically not. Gravel’s permeable nature usually exempts it from permission requirements regardless of size. We handle all SuDS compliance documentation and provide guidance on any specific local requirements.
How do you prevent weeds growing through gravel?
Professional membrane plus proper ground preparation means weeds aren’t the nightmare you might fear. Yes, the occasional seed might blow in and take root on the surface, but a quick spray once or twice a year keeps things looking pristine. Nothing like the constant battle you’ll face with poorly installed gravel.
What's the best gravel size for driveways?
14-20mm angular gravel provides optimal balance of compaction, stability, and vehicle compatibility. Smaller sizes can become trapped in tyre treads; larger sizes don’t compact effectively.
How long does installation take?
Most residential driveways complete within 2-3 days, weather permitting. Larger projects or complex drainage requirements may extend this slightly.
What maintenance does gravel require?
Monthly raking to redistribute stones evenly, annual topping up (typically 10-20mm depth), and occasional weed control. Total annual maintenance costs remain very reasonable compared to sealed surfaces.
Can you install EV charging points with gravel driveways?
Absolutely. We work with qualified electricians to integrate charging infrastructure during installation or retrofit to existing driveways. Proper cable routing prevents any surface disruption.
Won't the gravel just spread everywhere?
Not if it’s installed properly. Edge retention, the right stone size, and adequate depth all work together to keep your gravel where it belongs. We’ve perfected this over hundreds of installations.
Ready to transform your entrance with a stunning new aggregate driveway?
Request your free design consultation today. Our friendly experts will be in touch within 24 hours to arrange a convenient time for a no-obligation site survey.
Book a free quote today...
No obligation. No deposit required. Just expert advice tailored to your property and lifestyle.
