Kett's Oak is an ancient English oak tree located beside the B1172 road between Hethersett and Wymondham in Norfolk. The tree is closely associated with Kett's Rebellion of 1549, one of the most significant popular uprisings in Tudor England. According to local tradition, it was here that Robert Kett and his brother William gathered supporters and addressed local people who were angry about the enclosure of common land and the rising cost of living. Their protest grew into a major rebellion involving thousands of followers who later marched on Norwich.
The rebellion challenged the actions of wealthy landowners who were fencing off common land that ordinary people depended upon for grazing animals and earning a living. Although Kett's forces successfully occupied Norwich for a short period, the uprising was eventually crushed by government troops. Robert Kett was captured and executed, but his rebellion remains an important symbol of resistance to social injustice and inequality in Norfolk's history.
Today, Kett's Oak is recognised as one of Britain's most important historic trees and is listed among the 50 Great British Trees. Despite its age and poor condition, conservation work has helped preserve the oak for future generations. The tree continues to stand as a powerful reminder of the events of 1549 and the struggle of ordinary people to defend their rights and common lands.