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Creating Beautiful Gardens 

Alistair J. Burley

With over 30 years’ experience in garden design, planting and landscaping, Alistair helps clients create gardens that are both practical and beautiful. He has built gardens at RHS Chelsea Flower Show and Malvern Spring, where his work received a Silver Gilt. Trained at Writtle College of Agriculture, his designs have also been featured on television and in the media.

Serving Herefordshire, Gloucestershire, Monmouthshire and Worcestershire.

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What I Can Offer

1 / Professional Experience

Over 30 years’ hands-on experience running a successful design and build landscaping company, delivering projects of all sizes from concept through to completion.

2 / Teaching and Mentoring

10 years dedicated to teaching horticulture and garden design at a range of colleges and universities, supporting the next generation of designers and horticulturists.

3 / Plant Expertise

Exceptional knowledge of plants, with an in-depth understanding of how to combine species for structure, colour, texture and year-round interest in any setting.

4 / Practical Approach

Clear and practical advice, built on a deep knowledge of plants, materials and construction techniques, ensuring every design is both creative and achievable.

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Garden Design

From concept sketches to detailed layouts, every design reflects your vision and budget.

I offer designs for all or part of your garden, whether it is a new space or an existing garden that needs structure, perspective, scale and proportion.
Services range from simple concept plans through to full detailed plans drawn to scale, with associated planting plans where needed.

If required, I can also provide fully illustrated colour drawings, although in most cases these are more of a luxury than a necessity to achieve the best results.

Planting Plans

​I can create detailed planting plans tailored to your space and budget.

Each plan is designed to suit your garden’s specific environment and soil conditions, ensuring plants not only thrive but also provide year-round interest.


The focus is on creating structure, balance and seasonal variety through thoughtful planting combinations that enhance both the beauty and the longevity of your garden.

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Supply & Plant

We also offer a full supply and plant service, taking the guesswork out of how best to position and establish your new plants.

 

By carefully setting them out according to the design, we ensure they are planted in the right place, at the right depth, and in the right conditions.

 

This approach helps your garden flourish more quickly, with healthier growth and fewer losses, giving you confidence that your investment will thrive.

Garden Consultation

This service is ideal for established gardens and offers a cost-effective way to explore ideas and gain expert advice without committing to a full design.

By simply walking through the garden together, I can provide clear, practical guidance on design challenges, layout improvements and plant care, helping you make confident decisions.

A consultation can also lead to tailored planting plans or suggestions for suitable materials and structures to enhance your space.

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Specifications

Specification & Costs

Successful projects are built on clear specifications and realistic budgets.

I prepare detailed documents that cover both hard and soft landscaping, including materials and planting.

With accurate costings and construction specifications, you can plan with confidence, avoid unexpected costs and ensure a smooth journey from concept through to completion.

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“Alistair designed a garden that perfectly balances beauty and practicality, giving us a space that truly serves so many purposes. His pricing was accurate and transparent, and his choice of layout and planting was exceptional – everything has thrived. The end result is a haven we enjoy every day.”

A. Jones, Herefordshire

How We Work

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