This strange tree that is often described as “fat”, was the victim of a bombing raid during the Second World War.

We are located in Ravenscourt Park, a truly wonderful park in the Hammersmith and Fulham area, whose origins date back to the medieval estate of Palingswick Manor in the 12th century.
The park is home to a centenary plane tree, perhaps a Platanus orientalis, which has misshapen branches and an overgrown trunk and whose diameter measures over 2 metres.
The tree is said to date back to 1812, when the park belonged to George Scott, the builder of St Peter’s Square, a square which is in the vicinity of the park.
According to a Ravenscourt Park keeper, this strange tree, that is often described as fat, was the victim of a bombing raid during the Second World War.
Looks like the bomb fell right at the top of the tree.
Although the tree looked dead, at some point branches started growing from the trunk, giving it its present shape.
Many believe that this unusual story symbolizes rebirth, hope and life after the war.
If you’re curious you can watch the video of the tree on TikTok, Instagram and Twitter!
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