The Standard Inn is an 18th-century fisherman’s pub in the remote Cornish village of Portscatho. The owners were looking for a sustainable natural paving material to transform the outside area of the pub creating a beautiful, traditional setting using Tintagel Aged Slate Paving Slabs from our newest National Trust Range - Coastal Cottage. We sat down with Jemma Glass, the co-founder of the Standard Inn, to find out how the renovation went...

Where did it all begin?

We took over the helm in 2022 with full interior and exterior renovation. When we received the keys we walked into a 1960’s patched-up interior with strip lighting, smoke-stained ceilings and damp chipboard panelling.

The original flooring had been ripped up and replaced with concrete and carpet. Working with local artisans and craftsmen we took the building back to its bones and replaced the dated finishes with natural materials using traditional building methods. Our aim was to create an authentic longstanding feel with high sustainability values that reflected the overall ethos of our pub offering. 

How did you decide on the right product?

In the beer garden we have an outdoor wood-fired grill kitchen, a bar within the converted coaching stables and outdoor seating for over 100. It's a magical area in the summer months with a bustling festival vibe. We knew we wanted to use a natural slate for the paved areas as it was hard-wearing, aesthetically pleasing and practical for service purposes.

Cornwall is known for its beautiful locally quarried slate but we found it impossible to source enough slabs of a consistent thickness and patina to use over such a large area. Tintagel Aged Slate Paving Slabs provided an excellent, sustainably quarried alternative for us. It provided the convenience and quality of a modern product with the patina and vibe of reclaimed local slate.

How did you find working with Westminster Stone?

As loyal customers of Westminster Stone in previous projects, they were our chosen go-to for slating expertise, delivering an excellent product alongside friendly helpful service. We originally thought we wanted large slabs for the curved pathway, but we were advised by the Westminster Stone experts to go for smaller brick-sized slate paving slabs with a boundary edge. We were so glad we did, the lay is beautiful and a real feature of the garden. We constantly get asked where the slates came from! 

The Standard Inn's transformation demonstrates the timeless appeal of natural slate paving for pub and restaurant landscapes. Tintagel Aged Slate Paving Slabs offer a perfect blend of beauty and functionality, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that complements traditional settings. These paving slabs are ideal for high-traffic areas with their durability, low maintenance, and natural slip resistance. Do you dream of creating a captivating outdoor space for your pub, restaurant, or patio? Explore the possibilities with Tintagel Aged Slate Paving Slabs or our wide selection of natural stone paving options...

Shop the Look

Tintagel Aged Slate provides a rustic charm and instant maturity to coastal landscapes and gardens. Ethically sourced, the unique mottled grey surface texture provides an abundance of character. Inspired by the National Trust’s stunning medieval Tintagel Old Post Office and its enchanting cottage gardens, the tumbled edges of these paving slabs enhance its worn appearance for a truly quaint and charming feel.

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Slate Paving Slab FAQ's

Are slate paving slabs good?

Yes, slate paving slabs are a good choice for a variety of reasons including:

• Durability: Slate is a very durable material that can withstand heavy foot traffic and extreme weather conditions. It is also resistant to chipping, cracking, and fading.
• Low-maintenance: Slate is easy to clean and maintain. Simply sweep it regularly and hose it off as needed.
• Stain-resistant: Slate is naturally stain-resistant, so you don't have to worry about spills or stains ruining your patio.
• Slip-resistant: Slate is a textured material that is slip-resistant, even when wet. This makes it a safe choice for patios, walkways, and pool decks.
• Aesthetics: Slate is a beautiful natural stone that comes in a variety of colors and textures. It can be used to create a variety of looks, from traditional to modern.

Is slate good for pavers?

Yes, slate is an excellent choice for pavers due to its durability, low-maintenance, stain-resistant, slip-resistant, and aesthetically pleasing qualities. It is a natural stone that has been used for centuries as a building material, and its popularity continues today for both indoor and outdoor applications.

Is slate more expensive than sandstone?

Yes, slate is generally more expensive than sandstone in the UK. This is due to a few factors, including:

• Scarcity: Slate is a rarer material than sandstone. This means that there is less supply, which drives up the price.
• Quarrying: Slate is more difficult to quarry than sandstone. This makes it more expensive to extract, which also contributes to the higher price.
• Demand: Slate is in high demand, both in the UK and abroad. This further increases the price.

Sandstone, on the other hand, is a more common material. It is also easier to quarry, and there is less demand for it. This all contributes to its lower price.

Of course, the price of both slate and sandstone can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the quality of the stone, the size of the slabs, and the finish. However, in general, slate is more expensive than sandstone in the UK.

What is the cheapest form of paving?

The cheapest form of paving in the UK is gravel. Gravel is a loose aggregate of crushed stone that is widely used for a variety of paving applications, including driveways, patios, and walkways. It is a very affordable option, with prices starting at as little as £10 per square meter. Other affordable paving options in the UK include Indian sandstone paving slabs. Indian sandstone paving slabs are a popular choice for patios and walkways. They are durable, weather-resistant, and come in a variety of colors and textures. Indian sandstone slabs are typically priced between £30 and £50 per square meter.

Discover more answers in our Ultimate Guide to Slate Paving

About the Author

Sian McHugh

'Sian has been working with us at Westminster Stone for over 5 years and has developed expertise in garden design and landscaping. Her passion for nature extends to tending her own garden, teaching yoga and hiking during her free time.'