Hidden in the woods, Old Palm is steeped in legend. It is said that a tunnel reached from Mapledurham House to the statue as an escape route for the Blout family, who were Roman Catholics during the time of Catholic persecution. Others say that if you walk round the statue three times, the devil will appear. Still more say that Old Palm climbs down from his plinth every Christmas Eve to share good cheer.

Jennifer smith

September 15, 2025

The trees have now hidden it very well!!

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Elevation 80 m

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Today

Monday 27 October

13°C

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Max wind speed: 25.0 km/h

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Take Me There

Location: Mapledurham, South Oxfordshire, Oxfordshire, South East England, England, United Kingdom

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Old Palm Statue

1. Caversham Heath & Chazey Wood loop from Caversham — Chiltern Hills

2. Old Palm and Chazey Wood loop from Caversham Heights — Chiltern Hills

3. Caversham & Mapledurham loop from Reading

Other Popular Places to Check Out

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