Life expectancy 300-600 years, there are currently 117 oaks living in England aged between 800 and 1000 years. Max height 20m+, spread 20m+ slow growing tree.
In England, the oak is a national symbol of strength. With a long history of symbolism, the towering oak tree has deep roots within the realms of strength, wisdom and healing. The embodiment of beauty and power. Those in the presence of the oak tree understood that it is to be respected and honoured.
In ancient Celtic time, the oak was often referred to as “The Fathers of the Woods” where he ruled the lands with his Beech Queen.
Oak trees are an ecosystem within themselves they provide food, shelter and life for many species of wildlife. The acorns from the oak tree provide nutritious food source for many kinds of wildlife.
The oak is very symbolic for Glastonbury. In ancient times an avenue of oaks marked the way to the Tor for pilgrims to follow. Today two of these sacred trees “Gog and Magog” can still be seen standing near the Tor. (Although one has sadly died.)
In Glastonbury legend King Arthur and Lady Guinevere were both laid to rest in a coffin carved out the trunk of an oak tree. Their burial site was uncovered within Glastonbury Abbey during the late 12th century.
To honour Glastonbury’s past, we at Yastonbury plan to plant an avenue of oak trees from our Meadow labyrinth to the edge of our site in direct line with the Glastonbury Tor. The first two oaks within this avenue forming the entrance will be named “Arthur and Guinevere.” We plan to plant two avenues of oak, one avenue named Michael and one avenue named Mary, after the St Michael and Mary Ley Lines which run through our sacred field.
Oak Tree
Photos are for example only. Size, trunk and habitat will vary. All trees supplied are between 1.75 and 2.75m (not precise height.) Please feel free to contact us to discuss.