Darren Hawkes to speak at the APL Awards 2026
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Award-winning garden designer Darren Hawkes
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The Horticultural Trades Association (HTA) has announced that award-winning garden designer Darren Hawkes will be among the headline speakers at the Association of Professional Landscapers (APL) Awards 2026, set to take place on Friday, 13 March 2026, at The Brewery, London.
A multi–Chelsea Flower Show medal winner, Darren is known for his innovative and thought-provoking designs, including the 2023 ‘Samaritans Listening Garden’, which captured widespread acclaim. As the creative lead at Darren Hawkes Landscape and Garden Design, based in Cornwall, and a visiting tutor at the London College of Garden Design, he brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to his craft. His influence extends beyond the garden, too, with his popular podcast, The Garden Design Confessional, where he delves into design stories and creative processes with other leading names in landscape architecture.
APL General Manager Phil Tremayne expressed his delight at welcoming Darren to the 2026 ceremony, saying: “As a leading designer with years of experience and many notable gardens to his name, I know his expertise, creativity and award-winning projects will be an inspiration to our finalists and everyone attending on the day.”
The APL Awards, organised by the HTA, stand as one of the industry’s most prestigious celebrations of landscape design excellence. Recognising the outstanding achievements of professional landscapers and garden designers across the UK, the event highlights projects that combine artistry, technical mastery, and environmental sensitivity.
This year’s awards feature 123 finalists across 22 categories, including two exciting new additions for 2026 — Outdoor Living and Waterfalls & Pond Features. The event is proudly partnered with Country Supplies, Decking Network, Makita, and Steintec, reaffirming its status as a key date in the horticultural calendar.
For those wishing to attend and celebrate the very best in landscaping talent, booking is now open via hta.org.uk/apl-awards/visitor-booking-form. The APL Awards 2026 promise an inspiring day of creativity, craftsmanship, and recognition for the designers shaping the future of Britain’s gardens.
The APL Awards 2026
- There are 123 finalists across 22 categories. For a full list of finalists, visit: hta.org.uk/apl-awards/finalist
- There are two new categories for 2026: Outdoor Living and Waterfalls & Pond Features.
- The APL Awards 2026 are in partnership with: Country Supplies, Decking Network, Makita and Steintec.
- To book your place, visit: hta.org.uk/apl-awards/visitor-booking-form