Short answer
One 2026 UK cost guide puts hedge trimming at roughly £30 to £260+, depending on the size and condition of the hedge and the area (higher in London). Most gardeners charge by the hour, so a small, tidy hedge is cheap and a big overgrown one is not.
Prices below are indicative figures from a Housekeep cost guide dated October 2026 (inc. VAT). Always get at least three quotes: costs vary by area and supplier.
| Hedge | Typical time | Outside London | London |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small and well maintained | 1-2 hours | £30-£70 | £40-£90 |
| Medium or moderately overgrown | 2-4 hours | £60-£120 | £90-£180 |
| Large or heavily overgrown | 4-6+ hours | £120-£190+ | £180-£260+ |
What raises the price
- Weekends, bank holidays and peak season.
- Tall hedges or awkward access.
- Garden waste disposal.
- Heavily overgrown hedges.
- Larger companies versus self-employed gardeners.
- London and some larger cities.
DIY vs hire a gardener
If you only need a hedge cut every year or two, paying a gardener may be cheaper than buying a trimmer. If you trim regularly, buying pays back: see hire vs buy. Always check for nests before cutting, or ask your gardener to: see nesting season guide.
Questions to ask a gardener
- Is the price per hour or per job?
- Does it include waste removal?
- Do they check for nesting birds?
- Are they insured?
Related guides
Sources
- Housekeep: How much does hedge trimming cost? (October 2026)