180-year-old Rutland oak that survived a plane crash shortlisted for Tree of the Year
By Grace Kennington 4th Aug 2026
The 180-year-old Rutland 'Bomber Oak' has been shortlisted in the Woodland Trust's Tree of the Year competition.
The English Oak, which grows near Uppingham in Rutland, is 180 years old and has a fascinating history that has attracted a nomination for Tree of the Year.
The oak is on a family farm, looking like any other from a distance.
However, according to the Woodland Trust, 'up close, you can see it has a story to tell with a slight dip in the top of the canopy and twisted, misshapen central branches that have clearly suffered damage.'
It is said that the tree was hit by a crashing Lancaster Bomber in 1945, with the impact slicing the top of the tree off.
After recovering from this, the tree was almost lost decades later when a water company planned to install pipes in the field the tree grows in.
Following objections from the family that owned the farm, as well as locals, the pipes had to go around the field and the Bomber Oak remained standing strong.
To place a vote for the Rutland Bomber Oak, visit the Woodland Trust Tree of the Year website.
CHECK OUT OUR Jobs Section HERE!
oakham vacancies updated hourly!
Click here to see more: oakham jobs
Share: