Cobble and Edging

Cobble Setts & Circles – Classic Character with Lasting Durability

What Are Tumbled Cobbles?

Tumbled cobblestones are hand-cut natural stone pavers that go through a special tumbling process to soften their edges and corners. Unlike sharp-edged bricks, tumbled cobbles have a gently worn look, giving them a naturally weathered and timeless charm. Their larger size and smooth edges make them ideal for driveways, patios, garden paths, or as decorative borders around paving like Indian sandstone or limestone.

What Does ‘Tumbled’ Mean?

The tumbling process involves placing the stones in a rotating drum along with granite sand and water. This gentle motion rounds off sharp edges and gives each cobble a beautifully aged appearance—perfect for traditional or rustic garden designs. Tumbled cobbles blend seamlessly into both period and contemporary landscapes.

How to Lay Cobble Edging Around a Patio

Step-by-step guide:

1. Mark Your Edging Layout – Measure and mark out the desired line around your patio.

2. Dig a Trench – Use a spade to create a shallow trench along the marked area.

3. Prepare the Base – Add at least 100mm of MOT Type 1 hardcore, then compact it.

4. Lay the Cobbles – Set each cobble in a full mortar bed (5:1 sharp sand to cement mix). For better adhesion, dip each cobble in a slurry primer before laying.

5. Grout the Joints – Use traditional mortar or a flowable grout like Flowpoint.
   ???? Avoid using brush-in jointing compounds as they can break down under pressure washing.

What’s the Best Grout for Cobbles?

For long-lasting results, we recommend using either:

• A sand and cement mortar mix, or

• A professional flowable grout such as Flowpoint.

Important: Avoid resin-based brush-in compounds for cobbles. They don’t bond as strongly and tend to break apart over time—especially when exposed to pressure washing or heavy traffic.

Are Cobblestones Expensive?

Natural cobblestones are generally more expensive than mass-produced concrete block paving. This is due to their handcrafted nature—from quarrying to cutting and tumbling. But while the upfront cost is higher, the long-term value and visual impact are unmatched.

You’re not just paying for paving—you’re investing in a feature that adds character, heritage appeal, and superior durability to your outdoor space.

Cobble Setts vs Concrete Block Paving

Natural stone cobbles will outlast concrete alternatives and actually improve with age.

Shop Cobble Setts & Circles

At Discount Porcelain Superstore, we offer a stunning selection of tumbled cobble setts and stone circles in Granite, Limestone, Sandstone and Porcelain. Whether you're paving a driveway, laying a garden path, or edging your patio, you’ll find high-quality options that are both practical and beautiful.

Browse our cobbles now

email us at sales@discountporcelain.co.uk