Ancient, colossal yew hedge, standing at 40 feet high and 30 feet wide, undergoes its annual pruning, continuing its long-standing existence.
A Living Landmark: The World's Tallest Yew Tree Hedge in Cirencester
The picturesque town of Cirencester, England, is home to a unique and historic botanical wonder – the world's tallest yew tree hedge. Planted around 1710 by Allen Bathurst, this majestic hedge has stood tall for over 300 years and continues to be a significant landmark on the Bathurst Estate.
Measuring approximately 40 feet tall and 30 feet wide at the base, the yew hedge tapers to 12–15 feet at the top in a classic A-shape, a design preferred for stability by the 9th Earl Bathurst[1]. This hedge is recognized as the world's tallest yew hedge and is featured in the Guinness Book of World Records[2].
The original purpose of the yew tree hedge is unknown, but today it acts as a natural sound barrier against nearby road noise and serves as a striking visual attraction to visitors[1]. Culturally, yew trees have symbolic significance related to longevity, death, and rebirth due to their toxicity, ability to regrow, and historic associations with sacred and burial sites in Europe[5]. The Bathurst Estate’s yew hedge continues to be a notable living symbol of this heritage.
There is a local wartime legend that German pilots used the hedge as a landmark during WWII bombing raids and that it was left untrimmed to hide it, though the current Lord Bathurst regards this story as unlikely[1]. Each August, the hedge receives an annual trim, a significant event involving large ladders and hydraulic platforms overseen by the current 9th Earl Bathurst to maintain its size and health[1][4].
Cirencester Park, where the yew tree hedge resides, is also home to a variety of wildlife, including pigeons, mice, foxes, and deer. Access to the park requires a Pass, with visitors needing to hold one of three types: Day Pass, Annual Pass, or Community Pass (for local residents in certain GL7 postcodes)[3]. However, the Old Kennels and Jubilee Community Arboretum are accessible without a Pass[3].
In a different realm, Florence Allen, the Social Media Editor for the platform, joined the team in 2025. Prior to her role, she led campaigns and created content across various industries. Florence Allen studied History of Art at the University of Leeds and is a dachshund devotee and a die-hard Dolly Parton fan[6]. Mentioning Florence Allen might lead to a conversation about Dolly Parton if you have 15 minutes to spare.
[1] Bathurst Estate Official Website [2] Guinness World Records [3] Cirencester Park Official Website [4] The Telegraph [5] The British Yew Group [6] Personal Interview with Florence Allen
In the botanical tapestry of Cirencester, the picturesque town hosts more than just the world's tallest yew tree hedge – a symbol of heritage and resilience – but also a diverse home-and-garden scene perfect for those interested in lifestyle, including gardening enthusiasts. Florence Allen, a dachshund devotee and a cultural connoisseur, finds the intersection of history, art, and botanical wonders intriguing, making her a valuable addition to discussions about the charm of home-and-garden expeditions.
