Cumbrian Slate

Cumbrian Slate from UK Slate

Cumbrian slate has played a key role in British roofing for centuries. Formed by the Lake District’s unique geology and a long history of skilled quarrying, it is known for its wide range of natural colours, durability in harsh weather, and its connection to heritage and architectural work.

Slate has been quarried in Cumbria for over 400 years. The industry grew a lot in the 1700s and 1800s, providing roofing for industrial towns in Northern England. Today, even though the industry is smaller, Cumbrian slate is still a trusted option, especially for projects that need authentic materials and lasting quality.

UK Slate offers a carefully selected range of high-quality Cumbrian roofing slate, suitable for both traditional buildings and architectural designs.

Cumbrian Slate Quarries

Workable slate in Cumbria comes from two main geological deposits, producing a wide range of colours and textures. These deposits have historically supplied slate from both surface outcrops and underground workings.

Key slate-producing areas in Cumbria include:

  • Coniston Old Man, known for silver-grey slate
  • Broughton Moor, Hodge Close and Kirkstone, producing green slates
  • Brathay and Longsleddale are associated with blue-black slates
  • Kirkby-in-Furness, known for blue-grey slate

Slate quarrying continues at Kirkby, Broughton Moor, Elterwater, and Kirkstone, with smaller operations in the Tilberthwaite Valley. Honister Quarry has also reopened in the north of the Lake District, preserving the region’s stone heritage.

The Origin of Cumbrian Slate

Cumbrian slate comes from several geological deposits that formed millions of years ago through volcanic activity and compressed sediments. These origins give Cumbrian slate its range of colours and textures.

Historic quarries across the region have produced slates in silver-grey, blue-grey, rich green, and dark blue-black tones.

These quarries supplied major towns in northern England and were important in shaping the region’s built environment.

Why Choose UK Slate for Cumbrian Slate Roofing?

UK Slate uses its strong connections with UK quarries and hands-on product knowledge to help customers choose the right slate for their needs. Our Cumbrian slate range is ideal for:

UK Slate is a specialist supplier of natural slate with over 30 years of experience working with UK and international quarries. Our established relationships with Cumbrian producers ensure reliable product availability and consistent quality.

Westmorland Green Slate

Westmorland Green slate has been quarried for over 400 years from the Borrowdale Volcanic Group in the Lake District. Known as one of the UK’s top roofing materials, its green colour comes from volcanic ash that has changed over time, giving it a unique look and great durability. This slate has been used on many important buildings and is still chosen for heritage and high-end architectural projects. It comes in different sizes and thicknesses to fit your needs.

Burlington Blue Grey Slate

Burlington Blue Grey  slate was formed over 330 million years ago during the Silurian period and is quarried in the English Lake District. It is known for its steady blue-grey colour and strong performance, making for elegant and long-lasting roofs. UK Slate offers Burlington slate in both fixed-height and diminishing-height options, certified to A1, T1, and S1 standards.

See how we’ve implemented Cumbrian slate in architectural projects through our case studies.

Get in Touch

If you have questions about our Cumbrian slate range or need assistance selecting the right material for your project, please contact UK Slate. Our knowledgeable team will be happy to help.

Contact Us

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UK Slate
At UK Slate we all have pride in what we do, having a drive to succeed in being the best that we can be. If you choose UK Slate to be your supplier of choice – you will be assured of the very best support for the whole of your project.
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Try Our New Slate Hearth Calculator

Have the ability to get a quote, and to order online.

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.

Try Our New Slate Hearth Calculator

Have the ability to get a quote, and to order online.

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.

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