Framlingham - Saint Michael's Church (Suffolk)

Giant Redwood - September 2026

It is just over twenty years since our first visit to Framlingham and the Wellingtonia in Saint Michael's Churchyard. Back in 2004 it measured 4.7 metres in girth and by 2026 it had grown to 5.8 metres. A very fine example of its type.

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Thanks to Duane for these photographs of the same tree taken in April 2019

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Giant Redwood - November 2004

One of the nicest examples of Wellingtonia can be found in the grounds of the church of Saint Michael in Framlingham. Just a short walk from the market square, this historic church holds many interesting features, including the ornate tombs of notable people going back through many centuries. The oldest is that of Thomas Howard, 3rd duke of Norfolk. Thomas died in 1554, a year after the chancel was rebuilt. He was a rather fortunate man, since although in 1547 king Henry VIII had ordered that he was to be executed, the king died the night before the event was due and so Thomas managed to hang on to his head for another seven years. Coincidence? Perhaps not... The most notable feature of the church, however, is the Giant Redwood in the graveyard. This fine example has a nice shape, and although quite close to a Yew, is not cramped by the surrounding trees. If you are passing, and have time, we can recommend a wander round the market square, then a visit to the church and the tree, followed by a walk to the ruins of Framlingham castle. This tree added .18m (7inches) to its girth in four years, comparing the two measurements in 2004 and 2008.

Common Names and Latin Name	Latitude and Longitude		OS National Grid	Elevation (above sea-level)	Height	Girth	Date Measured
	WGS84	OSGB36
Giant Redwood, Wellingtonia Sequoiadendron giganteum	N52.22213 E1.34428	N52.22166 E1.34605	TM 28518 63482	112ft (34.15m)	30.8m 30.3m 28.5m 26.9m -- --	5.8m 5.53m -- 5.18m 4.95m 4.7m	September 2026 September 2020 October 2014 April 2012 November 2008 November 2004
Girth was measured at 1.5m from ground.