One of UK’s most iconic trees, the Major Oak, has failed to come into leaf this summer, marking the end of its long story.
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This gigantic tree had loomed large over the landscape for up to 1,200 years. The Major Oak, also known as the Robin Hood tree, is a large English oak (Quercus robur) located in Sherwood Forest in Nottinghamshire, England.
From 2022, the Major Oak suffered from heatwaves and produced fewer leaves every year. In 2025, it was reported it looked particularly poor, and efforts were taken to mitigate the effects of heat on the ancient tree.
The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB), which runs the nature reserve in which the tree stands, delivered 3,000 litres (660 gallons) of water to the tree’s roots last year.
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Unfortunately, this year’s heatwaves – as well as a myriad of other factors – proved to be fatal for the ancient oak, as it’s failed to produce leaves and is believed to be dead.
According to the RSPB, the efforts to preserve the tree’s iconic shape with the help of metal bracing, props, concrete and coverings might have contributed to its demise, preventing it from aging naturally. The surrounding soil was also poor, making it harder for water, nutrients and oxygen to reach the tree.
Despite the end of its story as a living tree, the Major Oak will remain standing. It’ll stay part of its landscape and refuge for wildlife, and the knowledge gained in the efforts to save it will help to preserve other ancient oaks in the UK.
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Top image: Ancient oak tree in Sherwood Forest. Credit: Charles Sainsbury-Plaice/Getty Images
