An English oak tree, Leicestershire
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The oak has always been seen as the national tree of England. Its great height, age and strength made it the king of the English forest, and a symbol of endurance.
The oak's sturdy timber was used to build the frames of houses, barns and halls, and the ships of Francis Drake and Horatio Nelson - the "heart of oak" celebrated in the official march of the British Navy. The tree was also sacred to the Druids and the Anglo-Saxons, and it sheltered an English king, Charles II, when he was on the run from his enemies.
Biography
Who lives in a tree like this? Find out all about the wildlife that inhabits England's mightiest tree, and explore a little of the biology of the oak itself
Features
Learn what oak timber was used for in times gone by, and come with us as we investigate the mystery of Seahenge and the ancient symbolism of the oak. And how come so many pubs are named the Royal Oak?
