Historic England has revealed that the world-famous Sycamore Gap tree, illegally felled in September 2023, was more than a hundred years old.
Scientists from Historic England’s Investigative Science team carried out the first detailed analysis of the tree’s age, using dendrochronology (tree-ring counting). Their study found between 100 and 120 growth rings across the two main stems, confirming the sycamore had stood in Northumberland National Park for over a century.
The tree’s wood was found to be in good condition, indicating it was thriving at the time it was cut down. Based on the results, experts believe the Sycamore Gap tree was likely planted in the late 19th century, long before it became one of Britain’s most photographed landmarks along Hadrian’s Wall.
More stories about the Sycamore Gap
- "Cutting down the Sycamore Gap tree was an act of spite". Did “resentful cynicism” drive the guilty two or was it for "bragging rights and trophy-hunting”?
- Sycamore Gap tree: 'Astonishing' new shoots emerge from stump
- 64 per cent of BBC Countryfile Magazine readers disagree with the Sycamore Gap tree sentencing – for a surprising reason
