But our relationship with Michael didn’t start here - it stretches back more than a quarter of a century, born from a shared dream of seeing our towns and cities filled with trees. 

Michael knows all too well the importance of urban nature in cities. He’s lived in North London for over 40 years, where millions of people enjoy local green spaces, from Hampstead Heath to Primrose Hill. But take a short walk from these parks to some nearby neighbourhoods, and tree canopy cover can fall as low as 6%. This nature gap is why urban trees matter – and why Michael has been a key part of Trees for Cities’ story. 

Where it all began 

In 1998, when we were still known as Trees for London, Michael joined us for one of our early community tree planting celebrations, helping to open the Gospel Oak Community Woodland. 

Michael’s support for green spaces continued with supporting the fundraising and the launch of an Edible Playground at Carlton Primary School in 2015, created by Trees for Cities to give children the chance to grow their own food and connect with nature outside of the classroom. He planted herbs alongside the pupils, joined in their celebrations, and spoke about the value of outdoor learning - from discovering plant life cycles to experiencing the simple joy of growing and tasting fresh food. 

Marking a milestone 

Fast forward to 2019, we celebrated a massive milestone: one million urban trees planted across UK towns and cities. To mark the moment, we invited Michael to help us plant our millionth tree on the grounds of St Thomas’ Hospital, London 

The disease-resistant elm, still thriving beside one of the capital’s busiest roads, stands as a symbol of hope and resilience today. It represents the power of communities coming together, the tens of thousands of volunteers who planted the 999,999 trees before it, and our shared belief that greener cities are healthier, happier places to live. 

The here and now 

This year, Michael is once again standing alongside us - this time by lending his voice to our BBC Radio 4 Appeal, (which is live right now!).  

In the appeal, he tells the story of St George’s Estate in Tower Hamlets, one of the most densely populated areas in the country. When we first visited in 2013, the only green space available to thousands of residents was unloved and unused. Working with the community, we transformed it into a welcoming, vibrant place for children and families - a space to breathe, play, and connect.  

Michael’s message is simple: when you support Trees for Cities, you bring these kinds of transformations to life and help us plant trees and hope, where they’re needed most.

Be part of this story  

Michael Palin has been part of our journey for more than 25 years. Now, he’s inviting you to be part of the next chapter. If you can, please support our BBC Radio 4 Appeal - your donation will help us bring trees, nature, and hope to communities across the UK.