There are now less than three weeks left to vote for a small, much-photographed birch tree at the edge of Llyn Padarn in Llanberis to be crowned the Woodland Trust’s UK Tree of the Year 2025.
Set against the dramatic backdrop of Eryri and perched over lakeside pebbles, the Lonely Tree of Llanberis has become a cherished North Wales landmark and a favourite of walkers and photographers alike. Its striking silhouette in mirror-like reflections on the lake have made it one of the most photographed trees in Wales.
This year’s competition celebrates trees that are ‘Rooted in Culture’, spotlighting how they inspire art, photography and storytelling, and how they shape the character of places. The Llanberis birch – often described as small in size but mighty in spirit – is one of the youngest trees on the shortlist but has survived against the odds to become a beloved local icon; it is also the only tree on the shortlist based in Wales.
Public voting is open now and closes at 11:59pm on 19th September 2025. The winner will then be announced on 26th September and will go on to represent the UK in the European Tree of the Year contest.
Kylie Jones Mattock, director of Coed Cadw, the Woodland Trust in Wales, said: “The Lonely Tree is a perfect example of how even the smallest tree can inspire awe, creativity and pride. It is woven into the cultural identity of Llanberis. With just one month to go, we’d love to see people across the nation get behind this little birch with a big personality – and vote to help it bring the Tree of the Year title home to Wales again.”
Cast your vote for The Lonely Tree of Llanberis by 19 September 2025 at www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/treeoftheyear.
Wales last lifted the Tree of the Year title in 2023, when Wrexham’s 490-year-old Sweet Chestnut in Acton Park won the competition. Campaigners for the Lonely Tree are hoping to repeat that success and bring the award back to Wales for the second time in three years.
