History

Hillier and Sons Landscape Department was formed in 1864 from staff seconded from the nursery to what is now a dynamic landscape company headed by Richard Barnard who has been part of the Hillier enterprise for the last 45 years. In 1996 with the backing of the Hillier family a management buy-out gave Richard the opportunity to form his own company.

Richard has been instrumental in the company’s achievements to date.  He is a member of industry and education boards and continues to support the industry as a Judge for the Association of Professional Landscapers Awards.  He has also judged for the British Association of Landscape Industries Awards and the Royal Horticultural Society.  He was awarded the RHS Associate of Honour in 2011 for the advancement of Landscape Practice through education and association work.

Richard was supported by his wife Lynda, who has worked for Hillier Landscapes for over 20 years and between them with the support of their loyal staff are proud to be one of the country’s most respected and successful landscape and garden design companies.

The company now enters a new era. Following the resignation of our Chairman Robert Hillier and our Director Lynda the trading name of Hillier Landscapes is also retiring.  From 1 January 2023 the company will be known as Kings Oak Landscapes.

Richard will continue on the Board as Chairman and Shareholder.  The new Board of Directors has been formed from existing members of senior staff.

Hillier Landscapes were renowned for plantsmanship and the creation of both private and commercial landscape schemes and building on this reputation will work as Kings Oak Landscapes with existing and new clients. 

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