The Horticultural Trades Association has announced that comedian and broadcaster Ed Byrne will be the evening host and after-dinner speaker at Horticulture, The Conference 2026, which will take place on Thursday, 24 September 2026, at the iconic Barbican Centre, London. The event is one of the industry’s flagship annual gatherings, with planning well underway.

Byrne will also host this year’s prestigious Grower of the Year Awards, which celebrate excellence, innovation and achievement across UK environmental horticulture, recognising growers and businesses helping to shape the industry's future.

In a fitting connection to the sector, Byrne originally studied horticulture in Glasgow before becoming one of the UK’s most recognisable stand-up comedians and television personalities.

Known for his sharp observational humour and engaging presentation style, Byrne will bring wit and warmth to the annual dinner, which follows a day of expert discussions, strategic insight and valuable networking opportunities for professionals from across the environmental horticulture industry.

Ed has filmed this short video to accompany the announcement:

Fran Barnes, Chief Executive of the HTA, said: “We are delighted to welcome Ed Byrne as our after-dinner speaker and host of the Grower of the Year Awards at Horticulture, The Conference 2026. Ed’s intelligence, humour and stage presence make him a brilliant fit for what is always one of the event's standout moments.

“Horticulture, The Conference brings together experts from across and beyond the industry for a day of insight, strategy and connection, and we hope that everyone leaves feeling informed, supported in their professional journey, confident in the future of the sector, and inspired to take action and grow.

“Then in the evening, not only are we set for a fun speech from Ed, but the Grower of the Year Awards are a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the innovation, professionalism and resilience we see across UK horticulture, and we’re looking forward to a memorable evening.”

With early-bird bookings now open for the full Conference and more speakers still to be revealed, Byrne’s announcement marks the start of what promises to be a standout event for 2026.

Secure your place at Horticulture, The Conference now

HTA members can take advantage of an early bird booking rate by securing their place now at hta.org.uk/conference

Find out more about the Grower of the Year Awards at hta.org.uk/goty