Countryside Workshop: Hedge Laying | Learn Traditional Hedge Laying in the New Forest

Discover the Traditional Craft of Hedge Laying

Step back into one of Britain's oldest countryside traditions with the Countryside Workshop: Hedge Laying at the Countryside Education Trust. Taking place on Sunday 29th November 2026, this hands-on workshop offers a unique opportunity to learn the traditional skill of hedge laying in the beautiful surroundings of Home Farm near Beaulieu.

Perfect for gardeners, conservation enthusiasts, landowners and anyone interested in traditional rural crafts, this practical course introduces the techniques used to create healthy, living hedgerows that benefit both the landscape and local wildlife.

Learn a Traditional Countryside Skill

Hedge laying is the art of carefully cutting, weaving and securing living hedges to encourage healthy regrowth while creating strong field boundaries and valuable wildlife habitats.

During the workshop, you'll learn:

The purpose and benefits of hedge laying
How to safely prepare a hedge for laying
Traditional cutting techniques
How to lay and weave hedge stems
Securing and finishing a laid hedge
How hedge laying supports biodiversity and conservation

Under expert guidance, you'll gain practical experience and develop skills that can be applied in your own garden, smallholding or countryside projects.

Support Wildlife and the Environment

Well-managed hedgerows provide essential habitats for birds, mammals and insects while helping to preserve the character of the British countryside.

This workshop offers a fascinating insight into how traditional farming techniques continue to play an important role in conservation and sustainable land management today.

Event Details

Date: Sunday 29th November 2026
Time: 10:00am – 2:00pm
Suitable for: Adults and young people aged 16+

Location:

Home Farm
Countryside Education Trust
Beaulieu, Hampshire

What to Bring

Participants should wear:

Sturdy outdoor footwear or wellington boots
Suitable outdoor clothing
Thick gardening gloves if preferred
Protective gloves and safety glasses will also be provided during the workshop.

Why Attend?

Learn traditional hedge laying techniques
Hands-on practical tuition
Small group workshop with individual guidance
Discover traditional countryside skills
Support wildlife conservation
Suitable for beginners
Beautiful New Forest location
Led by experienced countryside educators

Whether you're passionate about traditional crafts, conservation or simply enjoy learning practical outdoor skills, this Hedge Laying Workshop offers a rewarding day in the heart of the New Forest.