Shoots of hope: New pictures show Sycamore Gap tree in recovery, three years after it was felled
- Published:
- 28 September 2026
Three years on from the illegal felling of the Sycamore Gap tree, which shocked and saddened many, new aerial images reveal how the stump is flourishing, a sure sign that the tree is in recovery.
The stump which is located adjacent to Hadrian’s Wall in Northumberland has grown a thick ring of new shoots which are two – three feet tall.
Andrew Poad, General Manager for the National Trust at Hadrian’s Wall said: “These flourishing shoots are really encouraging and show that the special measures we’ve taken - including reducing soil compaction around the roots and limiting human disturbance – are paying off.
“We’re grateful to all the visitors who, through the care they are taking, are supporting our efforts to protect the tree and give it the best possible chance to thrive.”
As the tree regrows, the conservation charity continues to work with partners and local communities to celebrate the tree’s legacy.
Projects include Heartwood, a series of artworks by artist Shona Branigan inspired by the tree's unique fingerprint, and the Trees of Hope initiative, which saw 49 saplings distributed to communities across the UK. More recently, Helix Arts and George King Architects were selected to create The People's Tree, a new commission using wood from the felled tree that celebrates the connections, memories and stories it inspired.
Andrew continued: “We’re monitoring the tree closely and, over time, our rangers will manage it depending on how it develops. But for now, we’re filled with hope by the way nature is taking its course.”