A New Chapter for Sycamore Gap

For years, the iconic tree at Sycamore Gap stood as one of the most photographed natural landmarks in the UK. Nestled along Hadrian’s Wall in Northumberland, the solitary sycamore, believed to be planted in the 1800s, captured the hearts of walkers, photographers, and visitors. When it was tragically felled in 2023, the emotion was felt far and wide, including here at our campsite, just a short distance away. We loved the tree so much we even included it in the logo for our 5-star campsite and named one of our Running Water Wigwam cabins Sycamore Gap.

Now it leaves behind a single stump, fenced off from the public.

But there’s now a glimmer of hope on the horizon. A new trial is underway, giving visitors a new reason to return, and we’re here to welcome you when you do.

A new chapter for Sycamore Gap

There are signs of regrowth with new shoots growing from the Sycamore Gap tree stump, just 10 months after it was felled.

There are also saplings from the tree that are being grown and will be planted at sites across the UK, with the first already gifted to King Charles for planting in Windsor Great Park this winter.

While the famous silhouette is gone, the Northumberland landscape remains as powerful as ever. Many visitors are still making the journey to experience the scenery, remember the tree, and witness the beginnings of what could be a meaningful renewal.

To learn more about the new growth, Northumberland National Park has shared updates on their official website here.

Why it’s still worth visiting

Though the tree is no longer standing, Sycamore Gap and the surrounding walk along Hadrian’s Wall continue to offer some of the most breathtaking views in Northern England. Guests at Herding Hill Farm still enjoy the walk along Hadrian’s Wall from Cawfields Quarry to Steel Rigg and beyond to the tree. With refreshments at The Sill and Twice Brewed Inn many guests prefer to stop for lunch and then take the AD122 Hadrian’s Wall bus back to the campsite. The signature real ale at the Twice Brewed Inn is named Sycamore Gap.

A symbol of pride for Hadrian’s Wall, Northumberland and the North East, Sycamore Gap was a testament to nature’s resilience and a beloved part of many lives, from marriage proposals to the scattering of ashes. Today, visitors stop not only to remember the tree but to be part of its story as it enters a new chapter. Whether you’re a history lover or a keen walker, this iconic stretch of Hadrian’s Wall still has plenty to offer.

If you are planning to visit the Sycamore Gap Tree Memorial, we would love to welcome you to our Northumberland campsite.

Check availability and book your stay today.

How to reach Sycamore Gap from our site

From Herding Hill Farm:

• Driving: A 5-minute drive to The Sill or Steel Rigg car park, followed by a scenic walk.
• Walking: Approximately a 1.5-hour walk straight from the site West to East staring at Cawfields Quarry with some great sections of Hadrian’s Wall and stunning views of the Northumberland landscape clearly visible along the way. 
  
  

FAQs

Can you still visit the Sycamore Gap tree? 

Yes, while the original tree was felled in 2023, the original site is still open to visitors and forms part of a beautiful walk along Hadrian’s Wall. Discussions are underway in respect of a permanent memorial.

The tree itself was removed by the National Trust in large pieces and its seeds collected so they could be propagated in its rare plant nursery. The largest section of the trunk was displayed at The Sill National Landscape in late 2024 and consultation underway as to its final use.

Why was the Sycamore Gap tree so famous?

As well as being an iconic national landmark the tree became famous after featuring in the 1991 film Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves starring Kevin Costner. Afterwards it gained the nickname the Robin Hood Tree - although in reality it was some 170 miles from Sherwood Forest. The Northumberland thriller author LJ Ross also named her second novel Sycamore Gap.

Where can I stay near Sycamore Gap? 

Herding Hill Farm is a 5-star campsite just 3.5 miles from Sycamore Gap. We have lots of accommodation choices at our campsite, including a Wigwam cabin called Sycamore Gap! Our Wigwam cabins are named after famous Hadrian’s Wall landmarks and our luxury en-suite Castle Pods after Northumberland castles.