Introduction to Traditional Hedge Laying
Step into the world of traditional countryside crafts and learn the art of hedgelaying in this practical, hands-on workshop at the MacRobert Farming and Rural Skills Centre.
Led by NHLS-accredited hedgelaying contractor and instructor Graeme Walker, this free introductory course will give you the opportunity to develop valuable rural skills while helping to create healthy, long-lasting hedgerows that benefit wildlife, farming, and the wider landscape.
Throughout the day, you'll discover why hedges are laid, explore the many benefits they provide, and learn how to work safely and confidently with traditional hedgelaying tools. Following expert demonstrations of hedge preparation, pleaching, and laying using a billhook and axe, you'll work alongside a partner to lay your own six-metre section of hedge in the traditional South of England style.
In the afternoon, you'll learn the techniques of staking and binding before completing your hedge, with plenty of guidance and support from Graeme throughout the session.
This workshop is ideal for beginners and anyone interested in traditional rural crafts, conservation, or practical land-based skills. By the end of the day, you'll have gained first-hand experience of a time-honoured technique that continues to play a vital role in countryside management.
Event details
- Dates: Tuesday 16th and Wednesday 17th September (book one date only)
- Time: 9am until 4.30pm each day.
- Venue: The MacRobert Farming and Rural Skills Centre
- Address: Dumfries House, Cumnock, KA18 2NJ
- Eligibility: Participants must be aged 18+
Spaces are limited, so early booking is recommended. If you have any further enquiries regarding this workshop before booking, please contact farm.education@kings-foundation.org
Booking options
Step into the world of traditional countryside crafts and learn the art of hedgelaying in this practical, hands-on workshop at the MacRobert Farming and Rural Skills Centre.
Led by NHLS-accredited hedgelaying contractor and instructor Graeme Walker, this free introductory course will give you the opportunity to develop valuable rural skills while helping to create healthy, long-lasting hedgerows that benefit wildlife, farming, and the wider landscape.
Throughout the day, you'll discover why hedges are laid, explore the many benefits they provide, and learn how to work safely and confidently with traditional hedgelaying tools. Following expert demonstrations of hedge preparation, pleaching, and laying using a billhook and axe, you'll work alongside a partner to lay your own six-metre section of hedge in the traditional South of England style.
In the afternoon, you'll learn the techniques of staking and binding before completing your hedge, with plenty of guidance and support from Graeme throughout the session.
This workshop is ideal for beginners and anyone interested in traditional rural crafts, conservation, or practical land-based skills. By the end of the day, you'll have gained first-hand experience of a time-honoured technique that continues to play a vital role in countryside management.
Event details
- Dates: Tuesday 16th and Wednesday 17th September (book one date only)
- Time: 9am until 4.30pm each day.
- Venue: The MacRobert Farming and Rural Skills Centre
- Address: Dumfries House, Cumnock, KA18 2NJ
- Eligibility: Participants must be aged 18+
Spaces are limited, so early booking is recommended. If you have any further enquiries regarding this workshop before booking, please contact farm.education@kings-foundation.org