A 450-year-old oak tree, one of London’s most significant and ancient natural landmarks, has been mysteriously felled in Whitewebbs Park, Enfield — sparking outrage from environmental groups, local residents, and tree conservationists.
The Whitewebbs Oak, dubbed the “Guy Fawkes Tree” for having potentially stood during the infamous 1605 Gunpowder Plot, was found severed and surrounded by its fallen limbs last week. An emergency Tree Preservation Order (TPO) has now been imposed on the stump, as authorities scramble to determine who carried out the unauthorised felling and why.
With a girth of 6.1 metres, the tree ranked among the top 100 oak trees in London, of over 600,000. Experts say it may have supported over 2,300 species, making it more ecologically valuable than even the renowned Sycamore Gap tree, felled in Northumberland in 2023.
Woodland Trust: “Devastating Loss”
The Woodland Trust, the UK’s largest woodland conservation charity, expressed deep concern. Adam Cormack, Head of Campaigning, said:
“This depressing sight is a reminder that not every ancient tree is in a safe place. The Whitewebbs Oak’s loss is devastating — a living witness to centuries of history. We urge anyone with information to report it to police.”
Cormack also noted the tree’s historical significance:
“Whitewebbs House is where the Gunpowder Plot was planned. It’s just possible the tree overheard Guy Fawkes and his co-conspirators.”
Call for Greater Legal Protection
The felling comes as the Tree Council releases a report urging stronger protections for England’s most culturally and environmentally important trees.
The Woodland Trust’s “Living Legends” petition, backed by 100,000 signatures and a proposed Heritage Trees Bill introduced by Baroness Young, would create a national list of protected trees. Many European countries already have legal systems in place to shield such trees from destruction.
Local Campaigners Demand Justice
Residents and members of the Guardians of Whitewebbs have expressed heartbreak and outrage.
“The tree belonged to Enfield and our national heritage,” said Benny Hawksbee, local biologist and wildlife gardener. “We want answers, and we want guarantees that the other trees here are being properly protected.”
Sam Gracie Tillbrook, 18, a local artist and committee member, added:
“This ancient oak was monumental. An entire ecosystem has been wiped out. I feel overwhelmingly sad, angry, and scared for what may come next.”
Investigation Underway
Enfield Council confirmed that it is supporting an ongoing investigation and has implemented the emergency TPO to prevent further harm. Authorities have yet to identify those responsible, and police are urging witnesses to come forward.
Environmentalists warn that unless laws are updated, more heritage trees could face the same fate.
How You Can Help
The Woodland Trust continues to campaign for legal change and is encouraging the public to write to their MPs and support the Heritage Trees Bill. Anyone with information about the felling of the Whitewebbs Oak should contact local authorities or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
