Garden path inspiration: 8 ideas for beautiful walkways

A garden path can play a number of different roles. More than just a walkway, a path can be used to mark out specific areas of the garden or provide a bit of structure to the overall space. Struggling for inspiration to create the perfect garden path? Read on for our top 8 garden path ideas!

A gravel garden path is a classic option that needs no introduction — but we'll give you a quick overview just in case! The main advantage of gravel is that it is quick to lay and will mould itself to any surface. You can use it to circle a tree in the middle of a path or create a little walkway to your favourite chill-out spot. When it comes to choosing gravel, think about the colour of your garden walls and the amount of sun your space gets. Even the biggest sun worshippers might regret laying dazzling white gravel in the height of summer! So why not go for toned-down grey or beige instead? In terms of gravel size, it's best to choose 6-14 or 8-14 if the path will also be used by vehicles. Finally, keep your gravel in check by laying some gravel grids.

Looking for a neat and tidy pathway that's easy to clean? A paved garden path provides the ideal option. From laying slabs over sand or on top of the lawn to pouring your own concrete slabs, there are lots of different ways to integrate paving into your garden. The other benefit of laying a paved path? You won't have anything to do once it's in place! That means no more weeding and no more edging to lay or straighten up.

If you love the look of a natural-looking walkway, a stone path will suit you down to the ground. Once again, you have a few options. Choose between large flat stones for a more rustic twist on a paved path, a pebble walkway or traditional paving stones. If you want to make life easier for yourself, simply lay the stones and wait a little while. After a few months, the stones should sink slightly into the earth and you'll just have to check that they are (more or less) flat.

Wooden garden pathways offer a wide range of styles from rustic countryside chic to contemporary zen-style walkways. The most important thing is to pick the right wood species for the style you have in mind. The red undertones of species like cedar or teak fit in perfectly with Japanese-inspired exteriors paired alongside zen garden plants and little ponds. Upcycled pallet boards will work perfectly in a child-friendly garden along with a tree house and homemade swing. You can also use decking boards or solid wood battens. It's entirely up to you!

Woodworking enthusiasts looking for something a bit different (and more affordable) than wooden planks or decking boards might want to consider laying wooden log slices. You can use these slices just as you would stones to create a pathway with a free form design. Simply lay over tamped down soil before driving them about 2 to 3cm into the ground to ensure they stay in place. It's also possible to cement the log slices in place or to simply lay them over a bed of sand. The key is to ensure your wooden path will last. After all, it'd be a shame to go to all that work to see your pathway end up in the neighbour's garden after the first windy day!

If you're looking for a contemporary garden path, concrete will work very well. Easy enough to lay, concrete will mould itself to any surface you want to cover even if it is sloping or particularly uneven. What's more, it provides a clean, smooth-looking finish. In terms of colour, pick from a variety of options including warm sandy beige, cool grey and brick red. Or why not pick a tone to match your garden walls? You can add colour directly to concrete using natural pigments. Then all that's left to do is to border your path with colourful flowers, some beds of lavender or simply a luscious lawn.

Good news for anyone new to landscaping: a bark chipping path could not be easier to lay! Simply get your hands on some landscaping bark and spread it out wherever you want your path to be. A thick layer of about 2 to 3 cm should do the trick. Used in this way, the bark creates a layer of mulch which will prevent other plants from popping up. In short, bark is a really uncomplicated way to create neat lines. What's more, wood chippings create a really natural look which is great for wildlife gardens where borders are left deliberately soft.

Looking for a Caribbean vibe without leaving your garden? Go for a sand path! Dot around a few palm trees and shells and your garden will feel like a real getaway destination. If you want to keep your pathways fairly well defined, you can add in some edging with timber battens or vertical stones. That should help to prevent sand from getting into your lawn or onto the deck. And if you're really looking to elevate your exterior, top the whole thing off with brightly coloured sun loungers and parasols. Colours like turquoise and pink are great for adding little pops of colour to the garden. If you prefer a more paired down look, white and off-white will also work well.

Now all you need to do is to draw up your garden path design plans. Got some great ideas in mind? It's time to put them to work!