Many trees have important cultural or historical significance whereas others have been the source of countless traditions or folk tales.

The City of Edinburgh Council has compiled a list of its heritage trees. This involved a lengthy process of background research and public consultation, which provided a list of nearly 100 potential candidates. From this original list an inventory of 52 trees have been identified as notable and exceptional for a number of reasons, whether this is due to great age, size or historical and cultural significance. These trees are uniquely special or valuable within the context of the City. This list is by no means set in stone and is likely to be supplemented as more ‘heritage trees’ are discovered.

The Council now wants to celebrate the legacy of these heritage trees to promote them to the people of Edinburgh and visitors. The treemap below, courtesy of the City of Edinburgh Council, shows 16 of the 52 heritage trees. For more information about the individual trees, their location and access, click the small pictures on the treemap.