‘Tree of Hope’ from Sycamore Gap planted at Wray, Windermere
A sapling from the iconic Sycamore Gap tree that was illegally felled in September 2023 has been planted in the grounds of Wray Castle as part of a partnership between the Lake District National Park Authority, the National Trust and St Mary’s Hospice in Ulverston.
The legacy of the Sycamore Gap tree, which was a natural landmark in Northumberland National Park that held meaning for people throughout the world, will now continue to grow and commemorate the resilience of nature across the UK. Saplings from the original tree have been gifted to each of the country’s 15 National Parks.
Representatives from the Lake District National Park, the National Trust and St Mary’s Hospice were present at the planting as part of a celebration of the next chapter for the beloved sycamore tree.
Gavin Capstick, CEO of the Lake District National Park Authority, said:
“The Sycamore Gap was an important symbol of the UK’s valuable natural and cultural heritage. We are delighted to have received a sapling and to continue its legacy here in the Lake District National Park, and to see the community come together over a shared support for nature at the beautiful Wray estate.”
The planting of the sapling at Wray coincided with the start of a new relationship between St Mary’s Hospice and the National Trust through the Branches of Care project.
Branches of Care is a shared wellbeing initiative that brings together St Mary’s Hospice’s expertise in supporting people through illness, dementia and bereavement with the National Trust’s restorative natural spaces. Through a series of gentle, inclusive, nature‑based activities at Wray, it will create opportunities for connection, reflection and wellbeing that nurture both people and place.
St Mary’s Hospice invited a service user to plant the sapling beside the shoreline of Windermere on 28 April to symbolise the beginning of a meaningful exchange between the organisations.
Seonag Porter, Community, Participation and Volunteering Manager at the National Trust, said:
“We are honoured that this Sycamore Gap sapling has been planted here at Wray. The Tree of Hope is a special addition to the estate and a living landmark that reflects our growing relationship with St Mary’s Hospice. Our places are for everyone, and we believe deeply in the restorative power of access to nature, beauty and heritage. As the sapling grows, it reflects our shared commitment to nurturing support and helping more people feel rooted in the places that matter to them.”
Lynsey Lawson, Head of Community Services at St Mary’s Hospice said:
“The planting of this sapling is a powerful symbol of renewal, remembrance and hope. Grown from the Sycamore Gap tree, it carries with it a deep sense of connection—to place, to people, and to the stories that shape us. As we begin our work here at St Mary’s with the National Trust, this moment reflects what our workshops aim to offer: a safe space for people to come together, to share, to heal, and to find strength in community. We are honoured to be part of something that will grow and support wellbeing for generations to come.”
Branches of Care will be delivered through a programme of guided activities and facilitated group sessions. Further information on session dates, referrals, and how to take part will be available through St Mary’s Hospice.
