Legacy Of The Iconic Sycamore Gap Tree – Historical Landmark At Hadrian’s Wall

Jan Bartek – AncientPages.com – When news about the deliberate destruction of the iconic Sycamore Gap Tree, an unmistakable landmark at Hadrian’s Wall and Housesteads Fort, reached the world, people were shocked, angry, and sad.

The beautiful Sycamore Gap tree became a victim of vandalism. Credit: Adobe Stock – Alexandra

According to the National Trust, the Sycamore Gap tree, also known as the Robin Hood tree, located near Crag Lough in Northumberland, England, was planted by John Clayton (1792–1890), a lawyer from Newcastle who owned the land back in the late 19th century. Coming from a wealthy family and having inherited the Roman fort of Chesters, Clayton had a deep fascination for Hadrian’s Wall.

He dedicated nearly half a century to its excavation and preservation. His concern grew as he saw people damaging it by removing dressed stones for their construction projects. By his death, he had acquired five forts and approximately 20 miles of Hadrian’s Wall under his ownership – all in an effort to safeguard these historical sites.

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