Seeing the Sycamore gap tree remnants

Written By Chris Shirley MA FRGS

Image credit: Haus of Hiatus

The Sycamore Gap tree, also known as the ‘Robin Hood tree’, stood proudly beside Hadrian's Wall near Crag Lough in Northumberland, England. Nestled within a striking dip in the landscape, shaped by ancient glacial meltwater, it became a beloved subject for photographers and a symbol of the Northeast of England. Its fame was further cemented by its appearance in the prominent scene of the 1991 film "Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves."

 

This majestic tree earned recognition beyond its cinematic fame, winning the prestigious 2016 England Tree of the Year award. However, its story took a tragic turn on the early morning of September 28, 2023, when it was senselessly felled in what authorities deemed "an act of vandalism," sparking widespread outrage and grief.

 

Going to survey the Haughton Green bothy on the Pennine way meant that I got to see the Sycamore gap remnants up close.

 

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Chris Shirley MA FRGS

About the Author:

Chris is the founder of Hiatus.Design, a strategic branding, design and communications company that works with clients all over the world.

He is a former Royal Marines Commando officer, former risk advisor to the BBC and is a fellow of the Royal Geographical Society (FRGS).

Chris has travelled in over 60 countries, achieved his second Guinness World Record for an Atlantic Ocean rowing expedition, a Marathon des Sables finisher, and has worked with Hollywood actors, world–renowned musical artists and TV personalities.

https://www.hiatus.design
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