Ancient Yew at Britain’s First Monastery Crowned Tree of the Year
Waverley Abbey Yew Wins Top Honour
The mighty Waverley Abbey Yew has been crowned Tree of the Year. Its gnarled roots clutch the ruins of Britain’s very first Cistercian monastery, Waverley Abbey, founded 900 years ago. The tree itself is believed to be around 500 years old—meaning it stood tall when Henry VIII dissolved the monasteries in the 1530s.
Now, this ancient marvel will represent the UK in the prestigious European Tree of the Year contest.
Beating the Competition
The Waverley Abbey Yew secured 16% of the public vote, narrowly beating Scotland’s “Portal Tree” in Midlothian, which took 11%. The Portal Tree is a Rowan located on the grounds of one of Scotland’s top historic houses. In third place was Derbyshire’s striking Layering Sweet Chestnut, earning 10%.
Living Witness to History
Tom Reed from the Woodland Trust’s Ancient Tree Inventory said: “Visitors come with respect and appreciation for the abbey’s 900-year history. It’s brilliant this magnificent tree has been recognised. Its roots clutching the abbey ruins symbolise how ancient trees are entwined with our cultural heritage.”
He added, “We’re urging better protection for these living legends, so they are cared for like historic buildings. These trees have witnessed some of our most pivotal moments in history.”
English Heritage’s Dr Michael Carter said: “The yew has watched over the abbey grounds since shortly after the Dissolution in 1536. It has seen the monastery morph from a thriving religious community into a beautiful ruin. This tree is a spectacular reminder of history and time’s passage—a very worthy Tree of the Year winner.”
What’s the Tree of the Year Contest?
Now in its eighth year, the Woodland Trust’s Tree of the Year contest celebrates the UK’s favourite and most iconic trees. It highlights their vital role in fighting climate change and preserving nature, heritage, and history for generations to come.
