National Hedgerow Week

May 2026

What is National Hedgerow Week?

National Hedgerow Week is an annual event in the UK dedicated to celebrating the beauty, biodiversity, and ecological importance of hedgerows across the country. National Hedgerow Week is coordinated by The Tree Council and brought to you by the Hedgelink coalition, a partnership of organisations and individuals working together in the interests of the UK’s hedgerows. 

When is it?  

In 2026, National Hedgerow Week will run from May 4- 10.  

Why it matters:

Hedgerows support a wide range of species, from birds and mammals to insects and plants. They act as natural carbon capture, helping to combat climate change. They aid water management as they can reduce soil erosion and improve water retention, which is crucial in the fight against flooding and drought.  

Click here for more details on this week: National Hedgerow Week 

10 things you can do to get involved! 

  1. Join the movement: Help spread the word and contribute to the UK’s hedgerow conservation efforts. 

  1. Volunteer with local groups: Many environmental organisations and wildlife trusts organise community planting and maintenance events. Check with your local Wildlife Trust or Countryside Stewardship scheme for events in your area. 

  1. Create a wildflower or native hedgerow at home: If you have the space, plant a new hedgerow with native species like hawthorn, blackthorn, etc... Many local garden centers or conservation charities sell hedgerow starter packs. 

  1. Join a hedgerow walk: Participate in or organise a local nature walk focusing on hedgerows. Some events will have guides who explain the history, wildlife, and ecological importance of hedgerows. 

  1. Host or attend educational talks: Get involved in events that provide talks or workshops on hedgerow conservation. You might learn about their role in providing habitats for wildlife, like birds, insects, and small mammals.  

  1. Take part in a hedgerow survey: You can participate in this by recording the plant and animal species you see along a hedgerow, helping with conservation data collection. The Peoples Trust for Endangered Species are hosting a survey, find out more here: The Great British Hedgerow Survey.  

  1. DIY survey: Grab a notebook and head out to a local hedgerow. Use an app like iNaturalist or seek to identify plants and wildlife and contribute to national databases. 

  1. Hedgerow photography: Head out with a camera or smartphone and capture the beauty of hedgerows. You can then share your work on social media with hashtags like #NationalHedgerowWeek or #HedgerowsMatter to raise awareness. 

  1. Social media engagement: Share posts about National Hedgerow Week on your social media, showing support for hedgerow conservation and raising awareness of their importance. Share facts, photos, and links to resources or events. 

  1. Host a community event: If you're involved in a local community, organise a hedgerow-themed event, such as a “Hedgerow Picnic” or a “Hedgerow Art Exhibit,” where people can come together to enjoy nature and discuss the importance of hedgerows. 

 

South West Lakes trust has completed some hedgerow management during Winter 2025. As part of the Biodiversity Performance Commitment for South West Water, we have been improving hedgerows across the lakes.  

Meldon Reservoir:  

Gapping up hedgerows to improve the nature corridor at Meldon Reservoir. A team of three volunteers and two Conservation Officers tackled the gapping up. They planted 100 whips of Hawthorn and Hazel. 

Stithians Reservoir:  

Hedge laying to improve the long-term quality of the hedgerow. It involves partially cutting down young trees so they can lie at an angle while still growing from the base. This allows the hedges to become thicker and healthier, making better livestock barriers and creating habitat for wildlife. 

 

To get involved in more SWLT event keep up to date head to: Whats on at South West Lakes 

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