Haakon VII

The Norwegian government and its Royal Family, including King Haakon VII, were forced into exile in London and thousands of Norwegian people followed in fishing boats and other small vessels, crossing the North Sea to seek refuge in the UK.

This year marks the 76th anniversary of King Haakon VII sending the first spruce to London.

This year marks the 76th anniversary since King Haakon VII sent the first spruce to London.

King Haakon VII sent the first tree as a token of his gratitude after he was forced to flee Norway and seek sanctuary in Britain when Nazi Germany invaded his homeland.

During World War Two, when Carbisdale was under different ownership, King Haakon VII of Norway and Crown Prince Olav were given sanctuary at the castle during the Nazi occupation of Norway.