Funding Secures Future of Clipsham Yew Tree Avenue Topiary Attraction

The long-term viability of a distinctive attraction has been secured through a five-year funding commitment. This attraction, Clipsham Yew Tree Avenue, is a topiary collection situated close to the Rutland village, boasting a history spanning over two centuries. This half-mile-long, complimentary site currently showcases 137 venerable yew trees, meticulously sculpted into various forms, including a rabbit, a Spitfire, and a man on the moon. The Clipsham Yew Tree Avenue Trust, established in 2018 with the mission of protecting this historical location, has received a grant totaling £114,650. This funding is designated for the conservation of the trees and the reinstatement of previously lost topiary patterns. Among the designs slated for restoration are those commemorating the Millennium celebrations, the 1969 Moon landings, Concorde, a Spitfire, a horse, Rutland’s independence in 1997, and multiple designs honoring Queen Elizabeth II’s reign. Dr Patrick Candler, who serves as the charity’s chairman, expressed gratitude to the National Lottery Heritage Fund for their contribution. He stated: “This is absolutely wonderful news for the avenue and means we now have the funding security to continue to keep the site in great condition and also to restore the lost topiary designs for the next five years.” He added: “This really is a ‘yew-nique’ early Christmas present.” The site, which formerly served as the carriage driveway to Clipsham Hall, saw its initial topiary created in 1870 by the head forester of the estate. Subsequently, additional distinct designs were progressively developed over time to commemorate significant national events and notable individuals. However, in 2010, reductions in government funding resulted in the Forestry Commission being unable to sustain the tree trimming operations. Consequently, the avenue became overgrown, leading to the loss of all designs, while some trees contracted diseases, and bank voles disrupted the ground. The trust was established in 2018 with the aim of reinstating the site to its previous splendor, and the recently acquired funding will facilitate continuous upkeep of the location, the restoration of the topiary, and the placement of information boards and outdoor furniture.