Historic trees have been protected in the Peak District National Park

Work has taken place to protect an historic avenue of trees in the Peak District National Park which will ensure the public can enjoy them for years to come.

The avenue of lime trees is a well-known feature on the southern approach to the historic village of Tissington.

The avenue consists of 71 small-leaved lime trees (Tilia cordata). These were planted in 1969 by the Peak District National Park Authority to ensure continuity of the landscape feature of a much older avenue that was getting towards the end of its life. Now over fifty years old, the trees required some further attention.

The work to protect the trees has been completed by the National Park Authority in conjunction with the landowner – Sir Richard FitzHerbert of Tissington Estate, and a local contractor – Hope Valley Tree Care.

This has involved removing old iron tree guards, which will be reused to protect other young trees on the Estate in the future, pruning to raise the crowns of the trees, enhancing the shape of individual trees and removing any dead wood.

National Park woodlands manager Richard Claxon explained: “The lime tree avenue is a unique feature at Tissington. It’s an important part of the village’s historic environment and landscape character which adds to people’s enjoyment of the National Park. The trees provide shade and shelter to livestock grazing the fields, are home to birdlife, as well as beautifying the driveway.”

The records and maps in the archive at Tissington Hall show there has been an avenue leading to the village since the 1800s.

Sir Richard FitzHerbert, of Tissington Estate, said: “This lime avenue is a wonderful successor to the original avenue that was planted by previous members of the family who have lived at Tissington since 1500. I’m delighted that the Peak District National Park Authority has been able to achieve work that will protect the trees for the next fifty years and more, for us all to enjoy.”

Local contractors Hope Valley Tree Care worked safely at all times and complied with government guidance to ensure their employees were protected from coronavirus.

Photo credit: Sir Richard FitzHerbert.