Cumbrian slate is a natural roofing material quarried in the Lake District, known for its distinctive green and blue grey colours and reliable performance in UK conditions.
It has been used across the UK for centuries on both traditional and modern buildings.
At UK Slate, we stock a carefully selected range of slate from Cumbria, chosen for its consistent quality and suitability for long term use across roofing, flooring and landscaping projects.
Cumbrian slate is quarried in the Lake District, with production dating back over 400 years. The industry expanded during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries as slate was widely used across Northern England.Â
Key slate producing areas in Cumbria include:
Quarrying continues today at sites including Kirkby, Broughton Moor, Elterwater and Kirkstone. This ongoing production helps maintain a reliable supply of authentic British slate for modern use.
Cumbrian slate is widely specified due to its proven performance and natural finish. It has a long track record on buildings across the UK and continues to be chosen for projects that require a dependable roofing material.
Key advantages include:
These qualities make it suitable for both new build and refurbishment work.
Cumbrian slate is available in a range of natural colours shaped by the geology of the Lake District. These include green, blue grey, silver grey and darker blue black tones.
These differences are linked to different quarry areas across Cumbria, which influence the final appearance of the material.
This natural range allows the slate to suit a variety of building styles and landscaping, while also reflecting the characteristics of each quarry source.Â
Yes. Cumbrian slate is commonly used on listed buildings and conservation projects. Its natural appearance and long history make it a practical choice where traditional materials are required.
It is often selected where maintaining the original character of a building is essential, particularly when matching existing roofscapes or materials.
Its dense structure helps limit water absorption, which supports long term performance in exposed UK conditions. When installed correctly, it can last for many decades with minimal maintenance.
At UK Slate, we supply Westmorland Green and Burlington Blue Grey slate both recognised for their quality and reliability.
These products represent commonly specified options within the wider Cumbrian slate range, offering dependable choices for roofing projects.
The right choice will depend on the style of the building and the finish required. Some projects benefit from a consistent colour, while others suit more natural variation.
If you are unsure which option is best, our team can provide guidance based on your project, or take a look at how we’ve implemented Cumbrian slate in architectural projects through our case studies.
With over 30 years of experience and strong relationships with UK quarries, we provide consistent supply and product knowledge across our Cumbrian slate range.
If you are considering Cumbrian slate for your project, contact our team for advice, pricing or further information.
This interactive tool considers key specifications such as shape, material, dimensions, and finishing details to generate a personalised quote tailored to your needs. We offer a wide range of shape options, from classic rectangular designs to sleek, modern curves, all crafted from luxurious, high-grade slate.
This interactive tool considers key specifications such as shape, material, dimensions, and finishing details to generate a personalised quote tailored to your needs. We offer a wide range of shape options, from classic rectangular designs to sleek, modern curves, all crafted from luxurious, high-grade slate.
