Thieves have stolen a sapling grown from the famous Sycamore Gap tree, which was illegally felled in September 2023. The sapling was taken from the National Trust-run Wray Parkland and Castle on the west shore of Lake Windermere. Staff announced the theft on Thursday, expressing shock and sadness, and are working with Cumbria Police to investigate.
Sapling Symbol of Hope and Resilience
The sapling was grown from acorns of the iconic tree at Hadrian's Wall and was one of fifteen planted across UK National Parks as a symbol of hope and resilience. It was planted at Wray in April 2026 and also launched 'Branches of Care', a wellbeing initiative by the National Trust and St Mary's Hospice in Ulverston supporting people through illness, dementia, and bereavement.
Police Investigation Underway
Laura Lee, general manager for the National Trust in the area, 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 2026 has been stolen. Grown from seeds gathered from the much-loved tree at Hadrian's Wall, which was illegally felled in 2023, it was one of fifteen saplings planted across the UK's National Parks as a symbol of hope and resilience among our most protected landscapes.”
Ms Lee urged those responsible to “do the right thing” and return the sapling. She added: “This tree symbolised resilience and renewal, and its loss will be deeply felt. We are working with Cumbria Police and ask anyone with information to come forward. While this is a setback, it does not undermine the spirit the tree represents. Acts of care, restoration, and community support remain far stronger. We urge those involved to do the right thing, return the sapling, or come forward. The tree belongs to everyone.”
Background on Sycamore Gap Felling
In July 2025, Daniel Graham and Adam Carruthers were jailed for more than four years for cutting down the Sycamore Gap tree in what was described as a “moronic act”. The theft of the sapling comes as a further blow, but National Trust staff remain committed to the tree's legacy.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Cumbria Police quoting crime reference number CRI10053058, via their website or by calling 101. Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.
