Wattle Hurdle Demonstration

Hurdle making is the rural craft of making woven wattle fences. Hurdle panels are traditionally made in six-foot panels using coppiced hazel and willow. The willow is coppiced annually whilst the hazel is cut on a seven-year cycle from sustainably managed ancient woodlands.

Wattle fencing has been used for many different purposes over the years, from animal enclosures, fencing, screening, windbreaks, to the walls of houses using wattle and daub. Once in position, hurdles blend immediately into the landscape and can also provide decorative support for climbing plants and shade in the garden. Their permeable barrier allows air to pass through them, ensuring they remain upright even in harsh winds.