Metro Tiles

Where can metro tiles be used?

Metro tiles are designed primarily for indoor wall applications. Made from ceramic, they are lightweight, easy to cut, and straightforward to install.

In bathrooms, subway tiles are commonly used in shower enclosures, around bathtubs, or behind basins. Gloss finishes help reflect light, which is particularly useful in smaller spaces. In kitchens, metro tiles are a practical solution for splashbacks, offering a surface that’s easy to clean and maintain.

They also work well as feature walls – for example, a green metro tile laid in a herringbone pattern can introduce structure and visual interest without overwhelming the space.

Sizes, colours and finishes

Our metro tile range includes several popular formats:

• • 10×20 cm,
  • 10×30 cm,
  • 7.5×30 cm,
  • 25×6 cm,

• and more.

Tile thickness typically ranges between 7–10 mm, depending on the style.

The collection covers 10 colour options, from classic white to darker tones such as green, blue, pink, and black. If you’re exploring colour-led designs, see our guide: Trending Colours in Metro Tiles for 2026 for ideas and combinations.

Finishes include both gloss and matt surfaces. Gloss tiles reflect more light, while matt options provide a softer, more understated look. We also offer bevelled metro tiles, which feature angled edges that create subtle shadow lines and add depth to traditional layouts.

Layout options and design flexibility

One of the key advantages of metro tiles is how many layout options they support. The same subway tile can produce very different results depending on how it’s installed:

• Brick bond (offset) – the classic subway look,
• Stacked horizontal or vertical – more structured and contemporary,
• Herringbone – adds movement and detail,
• Vertical offset – a modern variation for feature walls.

This flexibility allows you to adapt metro tiles to different room styles without changing the tile itself. Check out our guide and read more about layout options: 5 Creative Layout Patterns for Metro Tiles.

How to lay metro tiles?

Laying metro tiles is relatively straightforward, but the layout choice makes a big difference to the final result.

Start by planning your pattern (brick, stacked or herringbone) and marking a central guideline to keep rows aligned. Use tile spacers for even joints, and begin tiling from the centre or a visible edge to avoid uneven cuts in key areas.

For bevelled metro tiles, slightly wider grout lines can help emphasise the shape of each tile. Always use a suitable adhesive for ceramic wall tiles and finish with grout that complements or contrasts with your tile colour, depending on the look you want to achieve.

Why choose metro tiles?

Metro tiles remain a practical choice for wall applications, largely due to their format and material properties. Made from ceramic and typically 7–10 mm thick, they are relatively lightweight and can be cut using a standard manual tile cutter, which helps simplify installation compared to thicker or denser tiles.

From a maintenance perspective, metro tiles are well suited to kitchens and bathrooms. Their glazed surface is resistant to moisture and can be cleaned with standard household products, making them a reliable option for splashbacks and wet areas.

Cost is another factor. With prices starting from £15.89 per m², metro tiles offer a straightforward way to cover larger wall areas without significantly increasing the overall project budget.

Finally, the range of available sizes – including 10×20 cm, 10×30 cm, 7.5×30 cm and 25×6 cm – allows you to adjust the final look without changing the core material. This makes metro tiles a flexible solution for both small updates and larger renovation projects.

Explore Metro Tiles at Top Ceramics

At Top Ceramics, our range of metro tiles is designed to give you flexibility when planning your space. With 10 colours available in different shades, various finishes, and multiple sizes to choose from, it’s easy to find a metro tile that fits both your layout and design direction.

Starting from £15.89 per m², the collection works equally well for smaller projects like kitchen splashbacks as it does for larger wall areas in bathrooms or utility rooms. Whether you’re aiming for a simple, uniform look or a more detailed layout using formats like bevelled metro tiles, the range offers consistent sizing and reliable quality across the board.