It’s been standing tall in Liverpool for 1,000 years but many people in the city are yet to visit the Allerton Oak.
The sprawling tree is so big it has to be propped up with special supports to prevent it from buckling under its own weight.
Just as impressive as its size are the myths and legends that surround the beautiful oak, which was mentioned in William the Conqueror’s Domesday Book of 1086.
Jon Warren, who has been a gardener at Calderstones Park for 48 years, told the ECHO : “The most heartwarming and poignant story I was told when I started here is that back in WW2, an envelope with a leaf from the Allerton Oak would be sent to those fighting on the frontline.
“This was done to give them hope and remind them that Liverpool hadn’t forgotten about them.”
Those who have visited the tree will also know from the plaque that sits beneath it, that it was even once a place where court hearings were held.
“A thousand years ago Allerton didn’t possess a courthouse, so it’s said that sittings were held under the branches,” said Jon, 64.
He added: “The tree has been growing here long before the city of Liverpool was even established and is probably the oldest in the North West of England.
“It’s been growing since medieval times, but funnily enough a lot of people in Liverpool still haven’t seen it and many don’t even know it’s here.”
The tree is now one of 10 in the running to be named England’s Tree of the Year, by The Woodland Trust.
Jon said: “People may think a tree this old needs a lot of care, but in truth it looks after itself. It’s had its share of disease, but always pulls through."
“However the supports need replacing as they haven’t been changed since the 1980s and they’re showing signs of stress. But it’s a job that will cost tens of thousands of pounds.”
To find the tree, enter the park from the main entrance on Menlove Avenue, which leads down to the Mansion House. Then follow either of the second or third pathways on the left (opposite the entrance to the ice cream parlour) and you will come across the tree.
Voting for the Woodland Trust’s Tree of the Year has now closed and the winners will be announced soon. Find out more here .
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