Heritage-Style Limestone with a Fine Tumbled, Aged Appearance

For those looking to recreate the character and charm of historic stone paving, Old Courtyard Limestone offers an authentically aged, timeworn aesthetic. This premium limestone undergoes a three-stage mechanical finishing process at our Lancashire factory, giving it a gently undulating surface and smooth, worn edges that mimic the look of centuries-old flagstones.

Designed specifically for period properties, traditional landscapes, and restoration projects, Old Courtyard features a subtle blend of sage, honey, and soft grey tones, making it a versatile and timeless choice for outdoor spaces.

Why Choose Old Courtyard Limestone?

✔ Three-Phase Weathering Process – Expertly finished for a naturally aged, reclaimed look.
✔ Refined Colour Palette – A blend of sage, honey, and soft grey hues, perfect for period settings.
✔ Subtly Undulating Surface – Creates the impression of naturally worn and settled stone.
✔ Smooth, Worn Edges – Enhances the timeworn aesthetic with a soft, handcrafted feel.
✔ Durable & Hardwearing – Limestone is naturally strong, ensuring long-lasting performance.
✔ Mixed Coursed Sizes – Covers approx. 14.25m², offering a traditional coursed-lay effect.
✔ 25mm Calibrated Thickness – Precision-cut for consistent depth and easier installation.

Aged Limestone Paving for Authentic, Timeless Spaces

Whether you’re designing a heritage courtyard, a classic patio, or a traditional garden path, Old Courtyard Limestone delivers unparalleled character and long-lasting beauty. Its bespoke aged finish ensures that the paving instantly blends into period settings, while its natural durability makes it a practical and stunning choice for outdoor spaces.

Hand-Finished in the UK | In Stock & Available for Immediate Delivery | Trade Discounts Available

Colour Variation – Old Courtyard Limestone

Regency Buff Limestone is celebrated for its natural warmth and gentle tonal variations, offering a soft, inviting blend of beige, honey, and golden hues. The three-phase weathering process ensures that each slab has a smooth, reclaimed-style surface, creating an aged, lived-in appearance from the moment it’s laid.

The buff tones are beautifully understated, allowing the paving to seamlessly complement both traditional stone buildings and modern outdoor designs. Some slabs may display slight variations in shading, adding to the authenticity and organic appeal of the stone.

To preserve the richness of the buff tones and protect against weathering, a breathable limestone sealer can help maintain colour depth and enhance long-term durability.

Example of the colour variation with Old Courtyard Indian Limestone

Old Courtyard Limestone – Wet vs. Dry Appearance

As with all natural limestone, Regency Buff Limestone undergoes a visual transformation depending on moisture levels, creating a dynamic and ever-changing look.

• When Dry – The stone appears in soft, muted buff and golden hues, with its aged, weathered surface providing a gently worn, antique aesthetic.
• When Wet – The colours intensify, revealing richer golden and honey tones, with the natural variations becoming more pronounced and the stone taking on a subtly enhanced texture.

For those who love the deeper wet-look effect, a colour-enhancing stone sealer can be applied to lock in the richer buff and golden hues year-round, while also protecting against moisture absorption and staining.

Technical Specifications

For full details on stone type, origin, sizes, weight, coverage, and pack contents, please refer to the technical specification table below. This information ensures you have everything you need to plan your project accurately.

Step-by-Step Guide to Laying a Patio

Creating a beautiful and long-lasting patio requires the right materials and a solid installation process. Follow our step-by-step guide to ensure a professional finish, using high-quality paving slabs, jointing compounds, and essential finishing touches available at Bridge Street Stone.

Step 1: Plan & Prepare the Area

Before starting, decide on the size, shape, and layout of your patio. Mark out the area using string lines or spray paint and ensure there’s a slight gradient for water drainage.

You’ll Need:

✔ Paving slabs – Browse our range of natural stone and porcelain paving
✔ Measuring tape & string line – For accurate planning
✔ Shovel & wheelbarrow – To clear the area

Step 2: Dig Out & Create the Sub-Base

Excavate the area to a depth of 150-200mm to allow for the base layers. Compact a 100mm layer of MOT Type 1 using a wacker plate to create a firm foundation.

You’ll Need:

✔ MOT Type 1 hardcore – Order high-quality sub-base material
✔ Wacker plate or compactor – Essential for a solid foundation

Step 3: Prepare the Bedding Layer

A mortar bed is needed to hold your paving in place. Use a mix of 4 parts sharp sand to 1 part cement, adding water until it reaches a firm, workable consistency. Lay the mortar to a depth of 30-50mm across the area.

You’ll Need:

✔ Sharp sand & cement – Shop high-quality materials
✔ Mixing tools – Cement mixer or bucket and spade

Step 4: Lay the Paving Slabs

Start laying the slabs from one corner, ensuring a consistent joint gap between each. Use a rubber mallet to tap them into place and check levels with a spirit level.

You’ll Need:

✔ Paving slabs – Explore our natural stone and porcelain paving
✔ Rubber mallet & spirit level – For precision placement

Step 5: Joint & Finish the Patio

Once the mortar has set (24-48 hours), fill the joints using a high-quality jointing compound or traditional sand and cement mix. Brush the compound into the joints and lightly spray with water to activate.

You’ll Need:

✔ Jointing compound or grout – Browse our range of easy-to-use paving grouts
✔ Soft brush & hosepipe – To apply and set the compound

Step 6: Add the Finishing Touches

Complete your patio with matching edging stones, decorative aggregates, or stone ornaments to enhance the overall design.

You’ll Need:

✔ Paving edgings & setts – Define your patio with stylish edging
✔ Decorative aggregates & stone ornaments – Browse finishing touches for your garden

Enjoy Your New Patio!

By following these steps and using high-quality materials from Bridge Street Stone, your patio will be both beautiful and long-lasting.

📦 Need materials? Explore our full range of paving, jointing compounds, aggregates, and finishing touches to complete your project.

How to Look After Your Limestone Paving

Limestone is a beautiful and durable natural stone, but like all paving materials, it requires regular maintenance to keep it looking its best. With the right care, your limestone paving will age gracefully and maintain its rich colour and distinctive character for years to come.

Regular Cleaning & Maintenance

✔ Sweep Frequently – Regularly remove dirt, leaves, and debris to prevent staining and organic build up.
✔ Wash with Mild Soap & Water – Use a pH-neutral cleaner (avoid acidic products) and a soft brush to gently clean the surface.
✔ Rinse Thoroughly – Always wash away residue to prevent streaking or dullness.

Preventing & Managing Fading

Limestone, particularly darker varieties like Kota Black, may naturally lighten over time due to UV exposure and weathering. To preserve its original colour, consider applying a breathable stone sealer such as Nexus Colour Enhancer, which helps lock in the depth of the stone’s natural tones.

Protecting Against Staining

✔ Seal for Long-Term Protection – A high-quality limestone sealer will help repel stains and moisture while maintaining the stone’s appearance.
✔ Wipe Away Spills Quickly – Limestone is naturally porous, so cleaning spills quickly (especially from acidic substances like wine, citrus, or vinegar) helps prevent permanent marks.

Removing Algae & Moss

✔ Use a Gentle Cleaner – A specialist algae remover or diluted biocide solution can safely remove moss and algae without damaging the stone.
✔ Avoid Harsh Chemicals – Never use acid-based cleaners or bleach, as they can erode the limestone and cause discolouration.
✔ Encourage Drainage – Ensuring good drainage and sunlight exposure can help prevent algae build up.

Pressure Washing – Use With Caution

✔ Low-Pressure Setting Only – Excessive pressure can damage the limestone’s surface or remove any protective sealant.
✔ Test on a Small Area First – Always test in an inconspicuous spot before full-scale cleaning.
✔ Re-Seal After Washing – If pressure washing strips away sealant, reapply a breathable sealer to maintain protection.

Long-Term Care & Preservation

✔ Reapply Sealant Periodically – A good-quality sealer should be reapplied every few years, depending on weather exposure and foot traffic.
✔ Monitor for Natural Weathering – Some light surface changes are normal and part of the natural aging process, adding character over time.

By following these simple care steps, your limestone paving will remain a stunning feature in your outdoor or indoor space for years to come.

Need Help? We're Here to Assist!

Choosing the perfect paving or stone products for your garden project is an important decision, and we're here to help! Whether you’d like advice on colours, sizes, installation, or suitability, our expert team is ready to assist.

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📞 Call us for expert guidance - 01282 860571

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No question is too big or small—get in touch and let us help you make the right choice for your outdoor space!