An ancient oak tree dating back to 2894 BC has been uncovered during peatland restoration efforts in Cambridgeshire, offering an extraordinary window into prehistoric Britain.
Archaeologists working on a major peatland restoration project at Wicken Fen, England’s oldest nature reserve, have discovered a remarkably preserved oak tree estimated to be nearly 5,000 years old — predating the construction of Stonehenge’s iconic stone circle.
The tree, which took root around 2894 BC and lived for over two centuries, was found buried deep in the peat at Spinney Bank, part of the wider Wicken Fen National Nature Reserve in eastern England.
A Glimpse into Late Neolithic Landscapes
Experts say the discovery provides a rare insight into Britain’s Neolithic environment. According to archaeologist Mark Knight of the Cambridge Archaeological Unit, the site reflects a time when the region was a dry, wooded landscape.
“This is a powerful reminder of the deep, layered history that lies hidden beneath peatlands,” Knight noted. “The preservation is so pristine that the tree rings still tell their story in perfect chronological order.”
Nature’s Time Capsule Preserved in Peat
The oak remained exceptionally intact due to the waterlogged, oxygen-free conditions of the fen — conditions that also make peatlands vital for carbon storage and climate resilience.
Ellis Selway, who manages the peatland project for the National Trust, described the find as humbling: “Peatlands don’t just hold carbon — they hold memory. To uncover a tree that grew 5,000 years ago reminds us just how rich and ancient these landscapes truly are.”
Older Than Stonehenge’s Stones
While the earliest parts of Stonehenge date to roughly 3000 BC, the iconic stone arrangements were erected around 2500 BC — centuries after this ancient tree began growing. The discovery not only redefines the environmental context of prehistoric Britain but also highlights the importance of conserving peatland areas.
Restoring the Past, Protecting the Future
Wicken Fen’s restoration project spans 590 acres and aims to rehydrate degraded peatlands, improve biodiversity, and enhance the land’s ability to sequester carbon. The discovery of the oak tree underscores how ecological restoration can also yield remarkable archaeological and historical insights.
Cover Image Credit: 5,000 Year Old Oak Tree Discovered in England. National Trust
