Working alongside such a magnificent tree got us wondering about other ancient trees in England, so we have looked into the following.
What’s the Oldest Living Tree in the UK?
It is pretty difficult to work out how old the oldest tree is, as they are normally hollow leaving no chance to count the rings! According to the ‘Woodland Trust’ the oldest Yew in the United Kingdom is said to be Fortingall yew in Perthshire. It is estimated to be between 2,000 and 3,000 years old, although some believe it could be 5,000 years old. In 1769 the girth was recorded at 17 meters. It is now smaller but continuing to thrive and grow new shoots. Another contender is The Ankerwycke Yew in Runnymede which is thought to be another of the oldest trees at 2,500 years old.
What is the Oldest Forest in England?
Hatfield Forest is one of England’s oldest Forests and the only remaining intact ‘Royal Hunting Forest’ dating back to the Normans. It has seen many owners from Kings to commoners but is now owned and managed by the National Trust.
Hatfield Forest is 1,000 acres and home to over 3,500 species of wildlife, including some that are rare and threatened. The ancient trees, some that are now over 1000 years old provide the perfect habitat or the rare insects and fungi.
The Norman Kings and Lords would enjoy deer hunting and chasing, whilst now it’s the perfect place for quiet reflection whilst the children run off steam. With miles of path to explore Hatfield Forest is a perfect place for exploring and walking your dog.
Where is the Oldest Oak Tree in the UK?
Bowthorpe Oak is considered England’s oldest Oak Tree. Based in Manthorpe, Lincolnshire. It is estimated to be over 1,000 years old. The girth of the tree is 40ft and 4 inches. The record girth is over 12 meters and its hollow trunk has rumoured to, at one point have 39 people standing within it!
Why is Bowthorpe Oak so Important?
Bowthorpe Oak is an important tree as not only is it steeped in history but attracts visitors all year round who come to see the magnificent tree in its wonderful landscape. Naturally hollow it is used by animals for sheltering and can be hired as a venue for meetings and parties.
The Oldest and Ancient Trees in the UK
Some of England’s oldest trees have been part of history from Tolpuddle Martyrs’ Tree which the first trade union was formed to the The Major Oak in Sherwood Forest, Nottinghamshire. The hollow trunk was supposedly used as a hideout by Robin Hood’s merry men.
The Ankerwycke Yew near Runnymede is thought to be one of the oldest trees that the National Trust look after has been said to have witnessed the stealing of the Magna Carta in 1215. It is over eight metres in circumference, with a giant hollows inside the trunk.
One of the oldest Yew trees is Crowhurst in Surrey. Like so many yews this one sits on a churchyard. Alleged to be 4000 years old, it is famous for having a door attached to it. Some time after 1820 villagers hollowed out the bole of the tree and found a cannonball which was believed to be embedded in the English Civil War.
Is the English Oak the UKs Most Common Tree?
With over 70 species of trees found across the UK we can’t help wonder what is the most common? According to the Woodland Trust the English Oak tree is the second most common tree with large numbers in Southern and Central England. With its distinctive leaves it can grow up to 40m tall.
The Ash tree is said to be the third most common trees and can live to the grand age of 400 years old.
So what is the most common?
It is the Sycamore Tree, these broadleaf trees can grow to 35m and live for 400 years old. Native to Central Eastern and Southern Europe it is thought to have been introduced to the UK in the Tudor era. The seed is extremely fertile so the Sycamore has spread quickly across the UK and colonised many woodlands.
How do I Report Old Trees?
If you spot a veteran or ancient tree you can log your sighting on the Woodland Trust’s Ancient Tree Inventory.
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