Tucked away near a derelict nunnery lies a 2,500-year-old tree that Henry VIII proposed to Anne Boleyn under. Completely steeped in history, the Ankerwycke Yew can be found along the River Thames just south of Wraysbury.

The tree – which has a girth of about eight metres – is at least 1,400 years old, while the National Trust said it could date back to the Iron Age. Just across the Thames sit the meadows of Runnymede at which the signing of the Magna Carta took place in 1215.

The agreement between the unpopular King John and a group of rebel barons established the rule of law. This essentially means that no one is above the law, and has become a staple for modern democracies around the world.

A few centuries later the Ankerwycke Yew is believed to be the exact site where Henry VIII courted Anne Boleyn before even proposing to her in its shadow.

While this may appear romantic, this feeling clearly didn’t last long as three years later she was beheaded.

Ruins of Ankerwycke Priory

Along with the historical tree which offers incredible views of Berkshire countryside, you’ll also get the chance to explore the ruins of Ankerwycke Priory. It was first established in 1160 and was home to Benedictine nuns for centuries until it was dissolved in 1550.

While it was patched up over the centuries, ever since the 1800s the building has been falling into disrepair, leaving the few remaining walls that we can see today.

The surrounding Runnymede area is stunning

Along with its yew tree, the Ankerwycke area is also home to one of Berkshire’s most aesthetically pleasing beauty spots.

An avenue of silver birch trees can be found on the northerly approach, so don’t miss your chance to grab some extra pictures when you visit.

Berkshire Live