National Hedgelaying Society

Preserving the past, protecting the future What we do

The National Hedgelaying Society is the only charity dedicated to promoting and preserving the traditional craft of hedgelaying

Hedgerows are a defining feature of the British countryside, forming a distinctive patchwork landscape recognised around the world.

Beyond their aesthetic appeal, hedgerows offer substantial environmental benefits. They capture carbon, serve as wildlife corridors, and are rich in biodiversity, supporting a wide variety of plant and animal species.

However, without careful management, hedgerows can deteriorate, develop gaps, and, like all living organisms, eventually decline. To maintain their health and longevity, they require attentive care and formal management.

One of the most effective ways to achieve this is through the traditional craft of hedgelaying. We welcome your curiosity to find out more.

Find out more
Alan Williams

Support Us

The National Hedgelaying Society is a charity with no formal source of income.

We rely on membership subscription, donations and sponsorship.

We need your support to keep this craft, and our hedgerows, alive.

Become a Member

Find a hedgelayer

We have more than 130 registered hedgelaying contractors with The National Hedgelaying Society.

Our interactive map makes it easy to find and connect with a hedgelayer in your area.

Whether you need help with a small garden hedge or managing miles of farmland hedgerows, our skilled hedgelayers are ready to assist wherever possible.

Explore the map

News

Royal Patronage

The King, Queen and other members of the Royal family offer their patronage to over 1000 organisations and charities. The first recorded patronage was King George II’s (1683 – 1760) involvement with the Society of Antiquaries. While the National Hedgelaying Society can’t claim such a long standing association (the NHLS only […]

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2024 National Hedgelaying Championships

Would you like the opportunity to watch the traditional craft of hedgelaying at competition standard? Witness a long, straggly, gappy hedge become transformed into a strong, dense hedge which will burst into new life after the laying process. With skills developed over many years, the hedgelayers will cut into the […]

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Web Shop Coming Soon

Many of our members will already know that we have a range of merchandise featuring our NHLS logo which is available to buy in person at our events and shows. The merchandise helps promote the society and brings in a small but much needed revenue to support the charity. We […]

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