Master Thatcher, Ashurst, Eling, and Totton SO40
Steven Hewlett and his brothers are fourth-generation master thatchersCall Steve today on 01980 611 880 or 07790 020 917
Member of the National Society of Master Thatchers
Traditional Thatching in Ashurst, Eling & Totton SO40
On the outskirts of the city of Southampton, the villages of Ashurst, Eling & Totton (known as the “largest village in England”) are the gateway to the picturesque New Forest, where native ponies roam freely on the heathland, bog, grassland and wood-pasture, traditionally watched over by the local forester “commoners”.
This area is awash with tradition – and one of the most endemic is the thatched roofs that adorn the quaint cottages and inns of the New Forest. There may not be as many thatched roofs in Ashurst, Eling or Totton as there were in days or yore, but enough still remain to keep master thatcher Steven Hewlett and his band of brothers very busy with repairs and maintenance.
We spend a great deal of time thatching in Ashurst, Eling & Totton, taking great pleasure in retaining the historic character of the local thatched roofs. Where possible we use the same methods and materials as our forebears, although due to a lack of suitable thatching water reed we now generally use combed wheat reed for thatching repairs or re-thatching in the SO40 area.
Call us today on 01980 611 880 or 07790 020 917. Alternatively, leave us a message on our contact us form and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.


Thatch repair service
Thatched roofs offer outstanding insulation, waterproofing and sustainability. In recent years, building regulations and new methods mean that thatched roofs are more robust, often lasting 50 years before needing repairs or replacement thatch.
Steven is always on-hand to provide this maintenance, whether that’s a regular visit, roof cleans and inspections. However, like any roofs there comes a point where your thatch roof may need repairs. Effects from weather conditions, wildlife degradation, and general wear over time can lead to thatched roof decay. At Steven Hewlett Thatchers, we recommend an annual inspection for any warning signs of wear, tear, divots, or damage, which may save you from needing a full thatch replacement. We can offer you advice and guidance for your thatched roof, to help you make a thought out decision for your thatched roof.
Maintaining Thatched Roofs in Ashurst, Eling & Totton
We have noticed recently a resurgence of interest in having new thatched roofs installed across Ashurst, Eling and Totton, as homeowners realise that not only is the art of thatching indigenous to this area, but also it is a sustainable, environmentally friendly and thermally efficient roofing option with great aesthetic appeal. A properly installed and well-maintained thatched roof can last up to 50 years, which also adds to the appeal of thatched roofs in and around Totton, Ashurst and Eling.
Mostly, though, we are engaged in renovating, refurbishing, patching and re-thatching in Ashurst, Eling and Totton to effectively extend the life of the local thatched roofs.
We’re pleased to be able to play a role in preserving the architectural heritage of Ashurst and the surrounding area of the New Forest with our knowledge of the detailing and features of the thatch that historically characterise this region.
We are well-versed in the traditional decorative patterns of the spars and liggers and the block-cut styles used to trim the ridges, eaves and window surrounds of thatched roofs in the Ashurst, Eling and Totton part of the New Forest.
Master Thatcher in Ashurst, Eling & Totton
Our thatching company covering Ashurst, Eling and Totton is rather unique in that it was started in 1925, and is today run by the fourth generation of the same family, who are brothers and qualified Master Thatchers.
We are passionate about keeping the thatched roofs in the Ashurst area weatherproof, watertight, fire retardant and pest free. We are also renowned for being reliable, tidy workers who set a great deal of store in being professional, friendly and courteous in their dealings with clients.
We don’t just install and repair thatch in Ashurst, Eling, Totton and surrounding areas, we are also available for thatching anywhere across the North Hampshire area. We offer a specialised thatching services including thatching repairs and commercial thatching. If you would like to discuss how Steven Hewlett can help you manage and maintain your thatched roof in Dorset, Somerset, Wiltshire, Hampshire (including Winchester, the New Forest, Romsey, Fordingbridge, Stockbridge and Marlborough, call us today on 01980 611 880 or 07790 020917. Alternatively, leave us a message on our contact us form and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.
