Do you really know? Why does Norway offer a Christmas tree to London every year?
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Dec 15, 2025 Discover the heartwarming tradition of Norway gifting a Christmas tree to London since 1947, a gesture of gratitude for British support during WWII. Learn about King Håkon VII's daring escape to London and his pivotal role in organizing resistance efforts. Uncover the fascinating process of selecting the perfect spruce and how it’s transported to Trafalgar Square, including a special felling ceremony. This rich history behind a beloved holiday symbol will leave you with a new appreciation for this annual gift.
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Annual Gift Symbolises Wartime Gratitude
- Norway gifts a large spruce to London annually as a thank-you for British support in WWII.
- The tradition began with a 1947 donation that symbolises ongoing gratitude and wartime solidarity.
Exile Leadership Cemented UK–Norway Bonds
- King Håkon VII fled to London and led Norway's resistance from exile, boosting morale and coordination.
- Norwegian merchant seamen and vessels materially supported the Allies and strengthened UK–Norway ties.
The First Tree Came During Wartime
- In 1943 a soldier cut down a tree to present to King Håkon VII while delivering radio equipment.
- George VI admired that tree, prompting Håkon to gift future trees to Londoners as a symbolic gesture.