What inspired the Crabapple Cottage in Brambly Hedge?

A 300-year-old crab apple tree in Epping Forest inspired the Crabapple Cottage in Jill Barklem's Brambly Hedge series.

Where was the Brambly Hedge inspiration tree found?

The inspiration tree for Brambly Hedge was found in Epping Forest, a favorite sketching spot for author Jill Barklem.

How many copies has the Brambly Hedge series sold?

The Brambly Hedge series, featuring a community of mice, has sold over seven million copies worldwide.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Brambly Hedge Tree Found in Epping Forest

Brambly Hedge Tree Found in Epping Forest

23 Apr

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Summary

A 300-year-old crab apple tree inspired Brambly Hedge.
The tree's location in Epping Forest was confirmed by author's children.
Jill Barklem's popular children's series sold over seven million copies.

Brambly Hedge Tree Found in Epping Forest

An ancient, over 300-year-old crab apple tree in Epping Forest has been identified as the inspiration for Crabapple Cottage in Jill Barklem's "Brambly Hedge" series. This unique pollarded tree, located near Barn Hoppitt and Warren Pond, was a favored sketching spot for the author.

Barklem's son and daughter recently visited the tree and confirmed its shape, setting, and surrounding landscape perfectly matched their mother's original inspiration. They noted the tree's continued thriving as a testament to her accurate illustrations, created nearly 50 years ago.