What Do The Coming Home Trees Mean?

The Story Behind the Trees

Standing proudly at the top of a hill near the A30, on the Devon and Cornwall border, are a circle of trees that have become a recognisable natural landmark. For many people over the years, they symbolise being 'almost home' or 'nearly there' back home to Cornwall.

There are approximately 100 beech trees that have been growing for decades on Lifton hill, also known as Cooksworthy Knapp. They stand out as you're travelling along the dual carriageway into Cornwall, as they are alone in a field and appear to be positioned in a perfect circular shape.

The Trees Go by a Few Different Names

• Cornishmans Welcome
• Nearly home Trees
• Almost there Trees
• Almost home Trees
• Unicorn Woods
• Trees on the Hill
• Circle of Trees
• Grandad's Trees
• Fairy Woods

Why Are They Called the Coming Home Trees?

The reasoning behind the iconic trees isn't fully known, but some have speculated:

Some say they were planted after WWI to remember those who had fallen, and more were added after WWII.

Others say they marked a location for travellers to see a water source.

Nearly There Large Travel Print

The Truth About Their Origins

The actual story behind the trees is that they were originally planted in the early 1900s by the Lifton Park Estate as cover for game animals. There was an area of beech trees in the centre, surrounded by fern and bushes planted at the bottom to create undergrowth. But all that survives now are the beech trees.

Despite the reasoning behind their fabulous existence, they have been the focal point of many photographs and influenced artists from all over the world.

You can explore our Coming Home Trees collection to see how these trees have been captured in art, from the Coming Home Large Art Print and Medium Art Print to the popular Arched Lino Tea Towel. If you're drawn to travel-themed artwork, browse our full Travel Art Print collection for more scenic inspiration.