Quick and easy way to get a comparison quote, look up a quote on DIY kitchens... you put in the size choose the worktop, cut, cut outs etc and then it gives you a price there and then.

That sounds reasonable to me though.

We’re going with a silestone quartz. Has a very subtle marble.
You can also order samples from DIY to look at them or do tests re staining etc.

There’s also a Houzz story somewhere about different kitchen worktops! :-)

Dekton could be another option

https://www.houzz.co.uk/discussions/5794066/quartz-vs-dekton-worktop

I’d say that is an exceptionally good quotation. Granite does stain and it can be tricky removing them. My personal preference for worktops is Hi Macs, no joins, not even for up- stands.

Solid surface is another option.

Hello @Ellie. We work with all different types of worksurfaces and make recommendations according to how the customer thinks they will use it. If you are nervous of stains look at Silestone or Caesarstone which both come with good guarantees and a wonderful palette of colours. £2k sounds quite a low price but perhaps your builder is passing it on at trade price for you. Good luck with your project. Best, P&P

Having used granite on several kitchens it can be hard work to keep nice and can stain. I have just installed Dekton in a recent kitchen and it is absolutely brilliant; doesn’t stain, doesn’t scratch, can put hot pans straight on it, wipes clean with water. It will be more money but is absolutely worth it.

Dekton Natura and Opera both look a bit like carerra.

Hi Ellie, I would go for the quartz it is so easy to keep and highly resistant to stains, cleans really easy . Silestone has a wide variety of colours to choose from. If you go for a Bullnose edge it gives a nice smooth rounded finish.

Hi Ellie, I have been looking at new worktops and I am going to go for a calacatta quartz. I think the company is santamargherita but I am buying from a worktop outlet in Glasgow. I have had a sample and tested it with red wine spills, curry and tomato sauce and all have wiped off easily without staining. I wanted a matble look and this one looks beautiful in the showroom. I have been quoted £2700, but this includes a large island.

@joanne w, we are in Glasgow too. where is the worktop outlet you mentioned? we ate hoping to go out look at some today. thanks

Hi it is granitemasters in Hillington, they have a good selection and are really helpful. My builder recommended them.