Ancient guardians on Wenlock Edge

The red glow of sunset lights up the branches and twisted roots of a majestic yew tree on Wenlock Edge.

Ancient guardians on Wenlock Edge

Yews are known for their longevity, and this particular tree is part of a group that is thought to be about 600 years old.

It's fascinating to think how long it has been standing guard along this path - and what sights it must have witnessed. 

Just a little further along I spotted another gnarled veteran clinging on to a near-vertical slope above the path.

I’ve photographed many of Shropshire’s ancient yew trees over the years, and they keep drawing me in.

Interestingly, if a yew’s branches touch the ground they will eventually take root and the tree will ‘walk’ - very slowly! - across the landscape.

Published by Shropshire and Beyond on

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2020
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