Become a Hedge Hero
COURSE
Intro to Hedgelaying
“Laying the Way Forward” is more than a motto—it’s a mission—to pass on the vital skills of traditional countryside management. In an age where rural heritage is increasingly under threat, learning hedgelaying is a way to reconnect with the land and help preserve its future.
By taking Intro to Hedgelaying, Paul aims to equip you with the knowledge and confidence to become a true hedge hero.
His beginner-friendly day course, set in the stunning coastal landscape of Gower, South Wales, offers a fully hands-on introduction to the art of hedgelaying. Participants spend the day learning every step of the process—from preparing the hedge line to properly using traditional tools to “pleach” stems, driving in stakes, and weaving binding rods to create a strong and lasting structure. Tea and coffee are provided throughout the day, along with a hearty winter soup to warm you mid-task.
Courses run during the autumn and winter seasons, whatever the weather—so participants must come prepared for manual work in all conditions. It’s a practical, rewarding day in the heart of the Welsh countryside—an opportunity to learn from a master and help lay the way forward.
To ensure personalised, hands-on guidance, each course is limited to just 4 participants—offering an in-depth learning experience you won’t find in larger groups.
Once booked, places are non-refundable and cannot be rescheduled.
Course Location
Based on the beautiful Gower Peninsula, Paul’s courses are run from Cliff Acre in South Wales.
Courses at Cliff Acre offer a truly immersive experience in a stunning, secluded setting overlooking Pwlldu Bay—an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This unique venue combines a peaceful, nature-rich environment with a dedicated community space for workshops, shared learning, and outdoor craft. Surrounded by wildlife and shaped by sustainable land practices, Cliff Acre is a working example of conservation and traditional countryside management in action. With on-site accommodation available and Paul’s iconic wagon as a permanent fixture, the space invites visitors to slow down, connect with the land, and fully engage in the heritage skills being taught.
Accommodation
Cliff Acre can provide:
One double bedroom, en-suite self catered unit for £150 per night.
Two rooms available in a shared two-bedroom home, for £75 per night per room; or £100 per night for single occupancy.
All stays include towels, bed linen and tea/coffee facilities.
Bookings will be on a first-come-first-served basis and availability cannot be guaranteed. Use the contact form if you would like further information or to book accommodation, and let us know the date of the course you are attending. Accommodation can only be booked in conjunction with a course.
Course FAQs
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Courses are run throughout the autumn/winter season. The hedgelaying season runs between September & March.
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No. The courses are an introduction to the craft and are designed for all ages and abilities.
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No. Courses are organised months in advance and WILL carry on regardless of weather conditions.
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Attendees should bring stout footwear, warm and waterproof clothing and a packed lunch. Tea & Coffee are supplied alongside a warming soup in the afternoons to keep us going!
All tools are supplied. -
Yes. Courses are also run in other rural skills including; Charcoal making, Hurdle making & wattle fencing. These are advertised on the website when they become available.
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The courses are based on the Cliff Acre smallholding located in The Gower Peninsular of South Wales, United Kingdom.
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Yes, although we have limited availability on site which will be on a first-come-first-served basis. Our accommodation can be booked directly with us, just use the contact form and we will get back to you with availabilty. We can also provide a list of other local accommodation.