Sycamore Gap legacy takes root at Carew Castle
A sapling grown from the original Sycamore Gap tree was planted at Carew Castle on Thursday 2 April, as the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park joined the 14 other UK National Parks in giving new life to one of the country’s most powerful natural symbols.
The young tree is a descendant of the original sycamore, which stood for more than 150 years at Hadrian’s Wall. Cuttings and seeds salvaged after the tree was felled in 2023 were nurtured by the National Trust at its Plant Conservation Centre. Now, those cuttings have been distributed to every National Park in the UK, creating a living thread that connects the nation’s most protected landscapes.
The planting was attended by the Park Authority Chair Dr Madeleine Havard and Vice Chair Councillor Claire George, along with Park Authority Member and local County Councillor Vanessa Thomas. Also present was Chief Executive Tegryn Jones, Director of Nature and Tourism James Parkin, along with local children.
The planting highlighted a shared responsibility for caring for special places and passing that legacy to future generations.
Dr Madeleine Havard said: “The Sycamore Gap tree was a powerful symbol of our connection to nature and heritage. While we cannot replace the landmark that was lost, planting this sapling at Carew Castle ensures its legacy grows here in Pembrokeshire. It serves as a living reminder of our role as guardians of these landscapes and our commitment to the generations who will enjoy them in the years to come.”
National Parks are working landscapes built on partnership and collaboration. The site at Carew Castle was chosen to reflect the deep history of the area and the ongoing work to protect it for the future.
Each of the 15 saplings will be cared for by local teams, standing as a symbol of resilience and the enduring power of nature in the UK’s most treasured spaces.
