We’re excited to announce that having won UK Tree of the Year in 2023, the Wrexham Sweet Chestnut is now through to the European Tree of the Year!
The Wrexham Sweet Chestnut stands proudly in Acton Park and received some well deserved recognition in September 2023 when it competed with 12 other nominees throughout the UK to be crowned UK Tree of the Year. This automatically puts it through to the European stages where it will compete with trees from all over Europe to claim the title.
Its easy to see why the Wrexham Sweet Chestnut is now heading to Europe; standing an impressive 24 metres tall and boasting a 6.1m circumference, this veteran tree is estimated to be approximately 480 years old which means it began growing in 1534, during the times of King Henry VIII. It has withstood many challenges during its half-millennium, from post-war plundering of the park for firewood in the forties to dozens of deadly storms, including that of 2021 when many neighbouring trees lost limbs or were toppled completely.
To celebrate getting into this prestigious competition will be hosting events and educational visits around the Wrexham Sweet Chestnut throughout February.
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We want to celebrate Acton Park and all the visitors that the tree has seen over the years, even our four legged friends! A fun dog show will be held on Sunday 11 February 11.30-4pm around the tree, inviting dogs and their owners to take part in categories such as waggiest tail and scruffiest dog. There will be 11 categories all together to enter and other stalls and activities on hand to entertain all the family throughout the day such as agility shows, dog treats, art and craft and refreshments. .
A Love Your Trees Valentines Special will also take place on Wednesday February 14 1pm-3pm where people can enjoy a self-guided walk around the park looking for all the Valentine themed marker points before coming back the Wrexham sweet Chestnut to collect a Valentines prize and take part in some Valentine themed craft. Come along and share your love of trees this Valentines and bring along all the family to take part in this half term treat.
Voting for the tree begins on Thursday 1 February and ends on Wednesday 21 February and with such a short voting period every vote counts. You can vote for the tree here.
Wrexham’s Sweet Chestnut is a “truly incredible tree”
Cllr Terry Evans, Lead Member for the Environment, said, “This is a truly incredible tree and is a firm favourite of many generations of people in the area.
“Please take the time to cast your vote and to spread the word to ensure it receives the recognition it deserves across Europe.”
