The most popular gate in the UK is undoubtedly the Wrought Iron Gate which will last for many years if treated initially and given simple maintenance over time. Most gates will normally swing open like a door, pivoting on a hinge. This kind of gate will suit most homes; gates usually swing inwards to the property to avoid opening on to a public highway and causing a hazard.  If you are restricted by space or the driveway is on an incline the standard swing gate may not be suitable. However in these instances it is possible to use a sliding gate, which often involves a little more installation work, but is still able to provide the finish you are looking for at the entrance to your property.

Sadly many of the examples of Wrought Iron Gates and iron railings disappeared during World War 2 when they were confiscated for metal required for the war effort. We are now only left with archive pictures of places where Wrought Iron Gates were dominant such as York, the Minster was enclosed with beautiful gates and railings fashioned by artisans of the day. Strictly speaking modern Wrought Iron Gates are no longer made from wrought iron but of mild steel, but this no way detracts from their appearance, it is in fact an advantage. However, if the gates and railings were to be reinstated around York Minster, true wrought iron would have to be used for the authentic conservation of this historic structure.