Beech trees ‘Fagus sylvatica’ are known as ancient from 250 years (a yew is only thought ancient from 800 -900 years +). Beech will live longer if managed as a pollard. This Althorp Park specimen was part of a planting programme in the late 18th century. © Photo and caption from Adey Greeno, Conservation Manager at Althorp #Althorp #Althorphouse #Spencerfamily #althorppark #heritage #northamptonshire #englishhistory #conservation