As the vibrant hues of autumn sweep across Wiltshire, one majestic oak tree in the grounds of Longleat House is garnering special attention.
Standing tall for 235 years, the tree is said to have been planted by none other than King George III during his visit to the estate in 1789. This half-term, visitors to Longleat will have the opportunity to admire the grand tree as part of the Great British Autumn event.
In 1789, while the world was witnessing pivotal moments such as George Washington’s inauguration and the French Revolution, the British monarch embarked on a visit to Longleat with Queen Charlotte and their daughters. Accompanied by 45 attendants, the royal entourage was hosted by the 1st Marquess of Bath, a distant ancestor of the current Lord Bath.
The visit was nothing short of ceremonial splendour. Contemporary records describe the dining table adorned with flower-festooned arches, while James Gunter, a famous confectioner from London, created sugar sculptures that added an extra touch of grandeur. The royal family dined in what is now known as the Green Library, seated on crimson and gold chairs that are still proudly displayed in the Great Hall.
During their stay, King George was so moved by Longleat’s beauty that he even took to the roof of the house to greet an enthusiastic crowd. Queen Charlotte noted in a letter that nearly 17,000 people had gathered in the park to catch a glimpse of the royal family, though other reports suggest the number was closer to 30,000. King George himself remarked that the estate exceeded all expectations, saying, “It far exceeds any idea which I could possibly have formed of it.”
Although records from the time of the visit do not explicitly mention the tree planting, 19th-century documents confirm that King George and Queen Charlotte each planted an oak in the gardens to the north of Longleat House. While the Queen’s tree was felled in 1925 to make way for a tennis court, the King’s oak continues to thrive and remains a key feature of the estate’s landscape.
According to Longleat archivist Emma Challinor, early garden plans from 1869 depict two similarly sized oak trees in the area, affirming their presence. “The fact that the oak was retained when the formal gardens were created in the early 19th century suggests it held a special significance,” she notes.
This autumn, visitors can admire the oak in all its golden glory as part of the Great British Autumn event, which runs from 26th October to 3rd November. In addition to the tree, the family-friendly event includes a range of seasonal activities, from live performances to a haybale slide. Visitors can also enjoy a scarecrow trail, which passes by the King George III oak, connecting today’s visitors with the long-standing history of the estate.
Whether you’re a history buff or simply looking for a fun-filled family day out, Longleat’s autumn celebration promises something for everyone, come rain or shine.
