England’s 1,200-year-old Major Oak in Sherwood Forest dies
Why it matters: The Robin Hood-linked tree drew millions of visitors and had become one of Britain’s best-known ancient oaks.
The Major Oak, a roughly 1,200-year-old tree in Sherwood Forest long tied to the legend of Robin Hood, has died after years of visible decline. The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds said the oak failed to leaf out this spring despite efforts to improve its health and extend its life. Experts cited a mix of poor soil, past human intervention, a weakened root system, and soil compaction from heavy foot traffic. The group also said recent heat waves and droughts linked to climate change worsened the damage. The tree will remain in Nottingham’s Sherwood Forest as a natural monument, while saplings grown from its acorns and cuttings preserve its lineage.