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.
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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 MemberPhoto credit: Graham Teece
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 mapNews
Annual General Meeting 2026
May 9th 2026 – 10am – 3pm Little Compton Village Hall Pinchester Close Moreton in Marsh GL56 0SE We warmly invite all members, newcomers, and anyone interested in hedgelaying to attend our 2026 AGM. As you would expect from a charity AGM, the formalities such as voting for committee members […]
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Risk Assessment Forms
The NHLS has produced two risk assessment forms for accreditation but they can also be used by our members for competitions or training events. These can be found at the bottom of the Accreditation page by scrolling to the last section, titled Assessors and Safety Standards. The forms are interactive […]
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Northumbrian Style
Across the country, it has often been said there are as many hedgelaying styles as there are hedgelayers! Hedgelaying styles have evolved, over the years, to suit the needs of localities, the geology of the landscape and the resources readily available locally. Some styles have become more popular and regularly […]
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