The iconic Dark Hedges in County Antrim, Northern Ireland – a scenic beech tree avenue made famous by HBO’s Game of Thrones – is “coming to the end of its natural lives,” according to the Causeway Coast and Glens Heritage Trust (CCGHT).
Recently taking over management from the Dark Hedges Preservation Trust, the organization will develop a comprehensive plan to preserve the historic site. Thirteen trees have already been lost since November 2023, with recent storms Isha and Eowyn causing significant damage to the centuries-old beech trees.
The tree-lined road, which became a global tourist attraction after featuring in the popular fantasy series, is approaching its 250th anniversary. CCGHT chief executive Graham Thompson acknowledged the site’s delicate nature, emphasizing the need for a “considered approach to protect their natural beauty.”
As an initial regeneration step, local schoolchildren will plant young saplings grown from the original Dark Hedges seed stock on Tuesday. The trust plans to develop a “Dark Hedges Masterplan” addressing site management, tree maintenance, safety, community impact, and tourism benefits.
Causeway Coast and Glens councillor Mervyn Storey called for broader stakeholder involvement, urging organizations like Tourism NI, Tourism Ireland, and DFI Roads to support the site’s preservation.
Thompson noted the site’s significance, stating, “We take on this work with open eyes and a clear understanding that the trees are coming to the end of their natural lives. Let’s all work together to make sure this very special place stays that way as long as we possibly can.”