Railway sleepers were first used in the UK in the early 19th century. They were originally made from cast iron and were used to create level trackbeds for railways. However, it wasn’t long before they were also being used in gardens.
Garden railway sleepers are a great way to add interest and structure to your garden. They can be used to create raised beds, edging, steps and much more. railway sleepers are also extremely durable and will last for many years with proper care.
If you’re looking for a unique way to transform your garden, sleepers could be the perfect solution. With so many different ways to use them, there’s no limit to what you can create. To give you some ideas, we’ve added some important information below.
The history of oak sleepers in the UK
The first recorded use of oak sleepers in Britain was in 1804, when they were used to construct the Kentish Stour Navigation Canal. By the 1830s, railways were being built across the country and many different types of sleeper were used, including oak. It wasn’t until 1845 that oak sleepers began to be used extensively on railways, when they were introduced on the Great Western Railway.
Oak sleepers continued to be used on railways throughout the 19th and 20th centuries. However, by the end of the 20th century, most railway companies had switched to using concrete or steel sleepers instead of oak. This was because concrete and steel sleepers are less likely to rot or be damaged by insects.
Railway sleepers can be used to build steps, raised beds, walls and many other garden features
Today, oak railway sleepers are still used in gardens and landscaping. They’re extremely versatile and can be used to create a variety of different features, including steps, raised beds, walls and edging.
If you’re looking for a way to add interest and character to your garden, railway sleepers could be the perfect solution. With so many different ways to use them, there’s no limit to what you can create. To give you some ideas, we’ve added some important information below.
How to use railway sleepers in your garden
There are endless possibilities when it comes to using railway sleepers in your garden. Here are just a few ideas:
1. Create a raised bed: Railway sleepers make great raised beds. They’re easy to assemble and can be built to any size or shape. To create a raised bed, simply stack the sleepers on top of each other and fill them with soil.
2. Edge a garden: Use railway sleepers to edge your garden beds and paths. This will give your garden a neat and tidy appearance.
3. Build steps: Railway sleepers can also be used to build steps. This is a great way to add interest and functionality to your garden.
4. Create a wall: If you’re looking for a way to create some privacy in your garden, why not build a wall out of railway sleepers? You can even plant climbing plants such as ivy to cover the wall.
5. Make a planter: Railway sleepers make great planters. Simply fill with soil and add your favourite plants.
6. Use as mulch: railway sleepers can also be used as mulch. This is a great way to protect your plants from weeds and keep your garden beds looking neat and tidy.
Railway sleepers are a versatile and affordable way to transform your garden. With so many different uses, there’s no limit to what you can create. So, why not get creative and see what you can come up with?
