NHER 9504 (Monument record) - Hethel Thorn

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Summary

A hawthorn tree, first mentioned in the 13th century when it was in use as a boundary marker. The tree is now over 700 years old, and was reputedly a meeting place for rebels in the reign of King John.

Protected Status/Designation

  • None recorded

Location

Map sheet TG10SE
Civil Parish BRACON ASH, SOUTH NORFOLK, NORFOLK

Map

Hawthorn tree.
Mentioned as a boundary mark in 13th century.
Legend says was a meeting place of rebels in the time of King John.
Used as a supply of mistletoe.
This hawthorn bush remains, about 2m high, in a field with a notice board.
E. Rose (NAU) 9 November 1978.

The notice board also states that it was a tradition for local children to count the props holding up the branches after dancing round the maypole.
The tree is now only a shadow of what it was when 18th and 19th century engravings were made.
E. Rose (NLA) 5 October 1998.

  • --- Newspaper Article: Eastern Daily Press. 1991. Thorn is star of open day. 12 June.
  • --- Record Card: Clarke, R. R. and NCM Staff. 1933-1973. Norwich Castle Museum Record Card - Miscellaneous. Bracon Ash.
  • --- Record Card: NAU Staff. 1974-1988. Norfolk Archaeological Index Primary Record Card.
  • --- Record Card: Ordnance Survey Staff. 1933-1979?. Ordnance Survey Record Cards. TG 01 SE 1 [3].
  • --- Secondary File: Secondary File.
  • <S1> Newspaper Article: Eastern Daily Press. 1984. Gale warning for the Old Thorn. 15 November.

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Related NHER Records (0)

Record last edited

Jan 27 2026 11:01AM

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