Dry stone walling is a method for creating a special type of stone wall. Particularly popular in the UK countryside, dry stone walls are unique as they don't require mortar or any other binding materials to keep them together. A dry stone wall can be constructed by the technique of interlocking the stones so that they don't require any additional elements to hold them up. In both past and present these walls have been used for field division and as retaining walls.

Preparing for construction

Calculate how much stone will be required for your wall. This will vary in every situation, but a general guideline is that the width of the base should be around half the height of your stone wall. Once you have your stones sorted be sure to clear off any debris or obstructing objects before starting construction.

Next, dig a shallow trench with enough space to comfortably house your base stones. Now you're ready for the real work to begin!

How to make a dry stone wall

Choose your widest and flattest stones for the wall's base and lay them into the trench, making sure to keep them as flat and level as possible. Continue to build upwards using the joints provided by the rocks beneath. Always start with the larger stones and work your way up with gradually smaller stones.

If it helps, have a picture with you of what you'd like your wall to look like and try to place your stones in the same way.

Finish off the top of your wall with some decorative stones. Achieve this by placing two heavy set stones at each end and then placing them in very tightly.

If you're not entirely confident with the solidity of your wall it is highly recommended that you call an expert to fix it up for you.

Tools and materials required

Walling stone is really the key ingredient for dry stone walling. Limestone is very popular and widely used throughout the UK. Other tools you will need include a shovel and as a last resort, a hammer.