The Sycamore Gap tree, a beloved landmark along Hadrian's Wall, was cut down in 2023, inciting global outrage and highlighting its historical significance.
Men Sentenced for Felling Iconic Sycamore Gap Tree in UK
Men Sentenced for Felling Iconic Sycamore Gap Tree in UK
Two men face prison time for the illegal destruction of a cherished tree in northern England.
In a poignant ruling on July 15, 2025, two men were sentenced for their involvement in the illegal felling of the Sycamore Gap tree, a historic and cherished landmark nestled along Hadrian’s Wall in northern England. The defendants, Daniel Graham, 39, and Adam Carruthers, 32, received prison sentences of four years and three months each for their “criminal damage” act that sparked widespread grief globally.
Judge Christina Lambert emphasized the profound impact of their crime, stating it caused a "sense of loss and confusion across the world.” While the legal minimum for such an offense could see sentences as light as six months, the judge highlighted the tree's unique cultural and emotional significance to many, ensuring a stiffer penalty was enforced.
The Sycamore Gap tree, planted in the 1800s, had become an emblematic feature of Northumberland's countryside and a focal point for personal milestones, such as marriage proposals and memorials. Judge Lambert lamented the intentional targeting of this tranquil sanctuary, which had provided solace to visitors year after year.
Discovered felled in September 2023, the tree's destruction marked a stark reminder of the fragility of nature’s treasures and the importance of environmental preservation.
