Welsh slate is widely regarded as the finest roofing slate in the world and has supplied the UK and international markets with a high-quality roofing material for hundreds of years. Quarried in North Wales, Welsh roofing slate has been crafted by generations of skilled workers, from the Iron Age through to the present day.
The dependable performance and natural beauty of this highly sought-after slate have made Wales a leader in natural slate production and export for centuries, with Welsh slate continuing to be specified on both traditional and contemporary roofing projects.
Some of the most well-known quarries producing authentic Welsh roofing slate include:
Each quarry produces slate with distinctive characteristics, colours, and textures, contributing to the reputation of Welsh slate as a premium roofing material.
Penrhyn Quarry, located near Bethesda in North Wales, has been at the centre of the Welsh slate industry since opening in 1782. With a heritage spanning more than 700 years, Penrhyn Quarry has long been recognised as one of the most significant sources of UK natural stone.
At its height, it remained Britain’s largest slate quarry, employing around 200 quarrymen and supplying slate throughout the UK.
Over the centuries, Welsh slate was shipped from North Wales to all major UK ports and exported to Western European destinations. Evidence of slate shipping dates back to the fourteenth century, with large-scale export firmly established by the eighteenth century.
At UK Slate, we stock a carefully selected range of natural Welsh slate in a variety of sizes and thicknesses to suit different roofing requirements. Our Welsh slate is suitable for:
We also offer further customisation of your chosen slate to meet specific project specifications, helping you achieve the right finish for both heritage and modern designs.
UK Slate is a trusted slate supplier for those looking to purchase high-quality Welsh roofing slate, backed by product knowledge and reliable service.
Welsh Dark Blue Grey slate is quarried from Cwt-y-Bugail Quarry, with production dating back to 1840. This slate offers a classic appearance and allows you to incorporate the heritage of Wales into your property.
Available in a range of sizes and thicknesses to suit different roof designs, thicker grades provide a more rugged appearance and are particularly suited to projects where strong character and defined edge detail are desired.
For a more unique and rare option, Welsh Heather Blue is an excellent choice. Sourced from the famous Penrhyn Quarry in North Wales, which dates back to the thirteenth century, this slate is renowned for its distinctive heather blue or purple colouring. Used by architects and designers worldwide to create beautiful and unique roofs, Heather Blue adds an elegant, striking finish to any project. With Penrhyn Quarry operating for over 400 years, this slate truly embodies the heritage and craftsmanship of Welsh slate production.
If you have any questions about our Welsh slate range or need assistance choosing the right roofing slate for your project, please don’t hesitate to contact UK Slate. Our friendly and knowledgeable team will be happy to help.
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.
