One Tree Hill

One Tree Hill: a famous landmark that connects us emotionally and confounds us archaeologically.

Otherwise known as Crookbarrow Hill or Whittington Tump it's instantly recognisable to anyone driving near junction 7 of the M5, the exit for Worcester. For generations this distinctive hill, with a solitary tree on top, has become a symbol of homecoming, an emotional way-marker. But ask around and nobody seems to know much about it. It's a Scheduled Monument, on private land inaccessible to the public, and it's never been excavated. However there are enough clues to warrant some educated speculation. So, for Open Country, Karen Gregor climbs the Tump with three local experts to pick their brains. She also speaks to Henry Berkeley who owns the Spetchley Estate on which the hill stands, and to locals who have personal stories to tell about it.

Scroll down to the Related Links section to click through to these interviewees' organisations.

Adam Mindykowski - Historic Environment Advisor for Worcestershire Archive and Archaeology Service. Wendy Carter and Harry Green - Worcestershire Wildlife Trust Henry Berkeley - Spetchley Park Gardens and Estate

The music in the programme: Chris Flegg - A Hill So High The Stands - I Will Journey Home Oysterband - One Green Hill

Produced by Karen Gregor