Two Men Sentenced Over Destruction of Sycamore Gap Tree

In a ruling that’s stirred emotion across the UK, two men have been sentenced to four years and three months in prison after being found guilty of chopping down the iconic Sycamore Gap tree—a deeply loved natural monument near Hadrian’s Wall.

The Sycamore Gap Tree

Daniel Graham, 39, and Adam Carruthers, 32, both from Carlisle, were convicted in May of two counts of criminal damage—one for the felling of the Sycamore Gap tree and another for damaging the ancient Roman wall. The act, carried out in September 2023, was described as a “moronic mission” that sparked nationwide outrage.

A “Mindless Act of Vandalism”

During sentencing at Newcastle Crown Court on July 15, prosecutors emphasized the calculated nature of the crime. Despite initial denials and attempts to avoid responsibility, Judge Justice Lambert concluded that the felling showed a “high degree of planning and preparation.” Though Carruthers wielded the saw, Graham filmed the act, making them equally culpable in the judge’s eyes.

While the defense team argued it was an act of “drunken stupidity,” the court was unmoved by their lack of remorse. Their unwillingness to come clean early on was noted as a factor that likely prolonged their sentence.

A Tree That Meant the World

The Sycamore Gap tree wasn’t just any tree. Perched beside Hadrian’s Wall in Northumberland, it had stood tall for over a century, becoming a popular photo spot, a film location, and a symbolic space for reflection. It appeared in films like Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves and more recently, Danny Boyle’s 28 Years Later.

A statement read in court by National Trust barrister Rebecca Brown reflected the gravity of the loss. “This iconic tree can never be replaced,” it read. “It was a totemic symbol…a calming, reflective space that people came to year after year.”

The tree was felled in under three minutes, and a wedge of it was reportedly taken as a “trophy”—a piece that has never been recovered.

Public Outcry for the Sycamore Gab Tree and Final Sentence

The crime’s impact was so significant that both men had been held in custody for their own safety since the May verdict. In addition to their main sentence, both received an extra six months for the damage to Hadrian’s Wall, which will be served concurrently.

The outpouring of grief from across the UK and beyond shows just how much one tree can symbolize. The Sycamore Gap tree may be gone, but its absence now speaks louder than ever.

You might also want to read: What Is Tea Tree Oil and Why Should You Use It?