Dunadry’s ‘Tree of Peace and Unity’ shortlisted for UK Tree of the Year

Malachy McCollum, Operations Manager and David Thompson, Head Gardener at the Dunadry Hotel and Gardens infront of the 165m+ Tree of Peace and Unity

A historic tree in County Antrim, which played a symbolic role in the Good Friday Agreement and has been a backdrop to countless local weddings, is in the running to be crowned UK Tree of the Year.

The iconic Tree of Peace and Unity, located in the grounds of the Dunadry Hotel and Gardens, is one of just ten trees shortlisted nationwide by the Woodland Trust.

The public are being urged to cast their vote before the deadline of 11:59pm on 19 September 2025.

Planted more than a century ago, two lime trees grew side by side until their trunks fused together to form one united landmark. Now towering at over 165 metres, the tree has become an enduring symbol of heritage, resilience and unity in Northern Ireland.

Its legacy was cemented during the Good Friday Agreement negotiations in 1998, when then Prime Minister Tony Blair, David Trimble and John Hume met beneath its branches while awaiting the outcome of the referendum.

For generations, the tree has also provided the setting for weddings, family milestones and community celebrations – rooting it firmly in the shared culture of the region.

David Thompson, Head Gardener, Eddie McKeever, Managing Director and Malachy McCollum, Operations Manager at the Dunadry Hotel and Gardens recreating the iconic Good Friday Agreement image underneath the Tree of Peace and Unity

Malachy McCollum, Operations Manager at the Dunadry Hotel and Gardens, reflected on the tree’s significance:

“This tree has seen it all. I’ve been here for more than 40 years, and I remember vividly that very tense day back in 1998. People always naturally gravitate towards the tree - and that day was no different.

“The political parties had come out of their various meetings into the gardens and the three leaders sat together under its branches. It was such a pivotal moment, flanked with the symbolism of peace and unity.

“Generations of couples have also started their married life beneath our tree; it’s been part of countless family milestones from christenings and communions to anniversaries. For us, it’s more than just a tree – it’s part of the fabric of the Dunadry, as well as the culture and shared history of the people of Northern Ireland.”

David Thompson, Head Gardener at the Dunadry Hotel and Gardens, said caring for the tree is a privilege:

“It’s a great honour to care for this tree and I’m proud to help it to stand tall. I like to think it will be here long after we’re gone – still telling its story to future generations. Guests often stop to admire it, not just for its magnitude and beauty, but for the sense of legacy it carries.”

He also highlighted the lime tree’s place in folklore:

“At over 100 years old, the tree also carries echoes of older traditions. Centuries ago, people placed linden branches around their houses and wore leaves for protection and peace.”

Calling on the public to show their support, Malachy added:

“The Dunadry has long been a place where history, heritage and hospitality meet, and this tree is at the heart of that story. Its nomination for UK Tree of the Year is a celebration of our culture, not just in terms of what it has witnessed, but what it continues to mean to people today and in years to come. We encourage everyone to show their support by casting their vote.”

Voting is open now via the Woodland Trust website at woodlandtrust.org.uk/tree-of-the-year.

The winner will be announced on 26 September 2025.