What Is a Hurdle Fence?
A hurdle fence is a traditional British form of portable, woven fencing made from hazel rods and posts. Used for centuries by farmers and smallholders, hurdles are lightweight, strong, and entirely natural — ideal for garden dividers, livestock pens, or decorative rural fencing.
What You'll Need
- Hazel uprights (sails): Sturdy posts, typically 38mm diameter, sharpened at the base to push into the ground
- Hazel rods (rods): Flexible rods, 25mm diameter, 120–240cm long for weaving
- A mallet for driving uprights
- Secateurs or loppers for trimming
Step 1: Set Your Uprights
Drive your hazel uprights into the ground at even intervals of 20–30cm. For a standard hurdle panel, use 9–11 uprights across a 180cm width. Use 38mm hazel posts for the best strength.
Step 2: Start Weaving
Take a fresh hazel rod and weave it in and out of the uprights, alternating over and under each one. Use the butt (thicker) end first. Fresh-cut rods are far easier to work with — they're supple and flexible before they dry out.
Step 3: Work Up the Panel
Add rods row by row, alternating the starting side each time so the weave locks together. Push each rod down firmly as you go. Aim for a tight, even weave. Our 60cm and 120cm hazel rods are ideal for smaller garden hurdles.
Step 4: Finish the Edges
Trim any protruding rod ends neatly with secateurs. For a traditional look, leave a slight overhang of 2–3cm. You can also twist a thicker rod around the top to create a neat border.
Tips for Best Results
- Always use fresh-cut hazel — dried rods will snap when bent
- Soak older rods overnight if they've had time to dry
- Work outdoors or in a well-ventilated space
- A hurdle panel typically takes 2–4 hours for a beginner
Where to Buy Hazel Rods and Posts
We supply hand-cut, fresh hazel rods and posts directly from our coppiced woodland in the UK. Browse our Woodland Craft range for everything you need to get started.