'Gravel and slate chippings are a cost-effective landscaping idea and an easy way to cover a large area,' says garden writer Jill Morgan.
'Creating an attractive and tactile surface it works with most gardening styles. It's also easy to cover any less-than-lovely features such as tired concrete or crazy paving,' she says.
'One other option for your cheap paving ideas is to use compacted crushed stone. Often used as a base layer for laying slabs and outdoor tiles, it can look pretty smart on its own, especially when smoothed down,' says Jill.
Highly durable it’s a practical surface for furniture too, plus you can always pave or tile over it when budget and time allows.