One of the first things visitors to Horton Heath notice is the number and variety of trees we have growing around the chapel and across the grounds. We have our Victorian forebears to thank for this who, when the chapel was opened in 1877, planted around twenty different species of deciduous and evergreen trees, including elders, junipers, silver birch, copper beech, oak, yew, horse chestnut and monkey puzzle. Other trees such as rhododendron, and flowering cherry add a splash of colour in the spring and summer.

Sadly, some of the trees have been lost over the years but others have replaced them. Some to commemorate special events, such as the Coronation Tree, a Norway Spruce, planted in 1953 shown below. Others in memory of those who were dear to us.

The benefits of having so many mature and such a variety of trees are two-fold. Firstly, no matter from which aspect the trees of Horton Heath are viewed, or what time of year, we cannot but be impressed by the beauty, colour and range of God’s creation. Secondly, to be among those restful trees is to find a place perfect for reflection on the one who created them.