A sapling grown from the Sycamore Gap tree, which was illegally felled in September 2023, has been stolen from the grounds of Wray Castle in Cumbria, just months after it was planted. Cumbria police and the National Trust are appealing for information.
Details of the Theft
The sapling was one of 49 salvaged from the original tree, which stood on Hadrian's Wall in Northumberland and was at least 100 years old. It was planted at Wray Castle in April 2025 as part of a National Trust initiative to distribute saplings across the UK as symbols of hope. Staff believe the theft was deliberate, as the sapling was removed carefully. Jez Westgarth, National Trust assistant director for Cumbria and Lancashire, told the BBC: “It hasn’t just been pulled up recklessly – somebody’s thought about what they’re doing.” The theft is believed to have occurred between 9 and 16 June 2025.
Background of the Sycamore Gap Tree
The original Sycamore Gap tree was one of the UK's most iconic trees, featured in the 1991 film Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves. It was felled on a stormy night in September 2023. In July 2024, Daniel Graham and Adam Carruthers were found guilty of the illegal felling and sentenced to over four years in prison.
Distribution of Saplings
The National Trust collected seeds from the felled tree, successfully growing 49 saplings. Fifteen were planted across UK national parks, including at Wray Castle. Other locations include a site commemorating the Minnie Pit mining disaster in Staffordshire, the Tree Sanctuary in Coventry, Coton Orchard in Cambridgeshire, and a site in Strabane, Northern Ireland, affected by the Troubles. The saplings were intended to spread a message of resilience and hope.
Appeals for Information
Laura Lee, National Trust general manager for the Lake District, said: “We are shocked and saddened that a sapling from the Sycamore Gap tree that was gifted to the Lake District national park and planted at Wray in April 2025 has been stolen.” She added that the sapling had helped raise awareness for a dementia and bereavement initiative. Cumbria police are urging anyone who visited Wray Castle between 9 and 16 June to come forward. Lee appealed: “We urge those involved to do the right thing, return the sapling, or come forward. The tree belongs to everyone.”
