
Sherwood Forest & Major Oak
Explore Sherwood Forest, home to the legendary Major Oak, once the hideout of Robin Hood and his Merry Men. Discover ancient woodland and rich folklor...

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful walks

Sherwood Forest & Major Oak
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful walks

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Sherwood Forest, home to the legendary Major Oak, once the hideout of Robin Hood and his Merry Men. Discover ancient woodland and rich folklore.
"A legendary ancient woodland with the iconic Major Oak, steeped in Robin Hood folklore."

🚗 Parking Tips
Be prepared for queues, especially on weekends. Arrive early or factor in extra time for parking.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
The forest has lovely trails, so wear comfortable shoes for exploring the woodland paths.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Major Oak
Sherwood Forest
Legendary 1,000-year-old oak, said to be Robin Hood's shelter. A truly ancient and iconic tree.

Sherwood Forest Trails
Sherwood Forest
Explore ancient woodland with well-maintained paths, perfect for leisurely walks and nature spotting.

Robin Hood Visitor Centre
Sherwood Forest
Discover the legends of Robin Hood and purchase themed souvenirs. Offers a nice cafe.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Sherwood Forest
Understanding the Major Oak's Condition
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Tips
Be prepared for queues, especially on weekends. Arrive early or factor in extra time for parking.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
The forest has lovely trails, so wear comfortable shoes for exploring the woodland paths.
🌳 Appreciate the History
The Major Oak is ancient and supported. Focus on its historical significance rather than its current appearance.
☕ Cafe Break
The visitor centre has a nice cafe for refreshments after your walk.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Tips
Be prepared for queues, especially on weekends. Arrive early or factor in extra time for parking.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
The forest has lovely trails, so wear comfortable shoes for exploring the woodland paths.
🌳 Appreciate the History
The Major Oak is ancient and supported. Focus on its historical significance rather than its current appearance.
☕ Cafe Break
The visitor centre has a nice cafe for refreshments after your walk.
📜 Robin Hood Legends
Learn about the folklore of Robin Hood and his merry men sheltering under the Major Oak.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often praise the historical significance and the beauty of Sherwood Forest's ancient woodland, with many enjoying the walks and the Robin Hood theme. However, some find the heavily supported Major Oak a bit underwhelming, while others appreciate the efforts to preserve it. Parking can also be a point of contention during busy periods.
"Not been here since I was a kid so it was great going back. Theres some great walks to do and a superb visitors centre for all your Robin Hood themed things to buy amongst other things."
Rob Aindow
"Lovely walks, plenty of places to sit on route. Nice cafe at the visitors centre. Have some great Robin Hood festivals which are well worth visiting. There can be a queue for the car park so factor that into your visit."
Ruth Roddison
"Nice walks around Sherwood forest, including the Major Oak. At over a 1000 years old it's looking it's age with lots of supports and tlc but then again I'd need some help pushing old age! Nice coffee shop before you enter the venue."
Delbotty
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sherwood Forest is located in Nottinghamshire, UK. It's accessible by car, with signposts from major roads. Public transport options include buses that run to nearby towns, from where you might need a taxi or a further bus connection. Check local bus timetables for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, there is a car park at the Sherwood Forest Visitor Centre. However, it can get very busy, especially on weekends and during peak seasons. Arriving early is recommended to secure a spot.
Cycling is a great way to explore the area. There are cycle paths within Sherwood Forest, and you can often cycle to the forest itself depending on your starting point. Bike racks are usually available near the visitor centre.
Many of the main paths within Sherwood Forest are well-maintained and suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs, particularly around the Major Oak. However, some of the more natural trails might be uneven.
The nearest major train stations are in Nottingham and Mansfield. From these stations, you would typically need to take a bus or taxi to reach Sherwood Forest.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Sherwood Forest itself is generally free, allowing you to explore the woodland and see the Major Oak. There may be charges for parking, and specific events or attractions within the visitor centre might have separate fees.
Sherwood Forest is typically open year-round, with access to the woodland from dawn till dusk. The Visitor Centre and cafe will have specific opening hours, which can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Sherwood Forest website for the most current times.
No, viewing the Major Oak is part of the free access to Sherwood Forest. There is no separate ticket required to see the tree itself.
Yes, if Sherwood Forest is hosting Robin Hood festivals or other special events, tickets are usually available for purchase in advance through their official website or ticketing partners.
Discounts may be available for group bookings or specific membership schemes. Parking fees are standard, but it's worth checking the visitor centre's website for any potential offers or concessions.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Sherwood Forest offers extensive walking trails through ancient woodland, opportunities for wildlife spotting, and the Robin Hood Visitor Centre with its cafe and shop. There are also often educational displays about the forest's history and ecology.
The walk to the Major Oak from the Visitor Centre is relatively short, usually around 15-20 minutes on well-marked paths. You can extend your visit by exploring other trails in the forest.
Guided walks and tours focusing on the history, folklore, and nature of Sherwood Forest are often available, especially during peak seasons or for special events. Check with the Visitor Centre for schedules.
The Visitor Centre typically includes a cafe, gift shop, restrooms, and information points. It's a good place to start your visit and gather maps or advice.
Yes, Sherwood Forest is very family-friendly. The trails are generally easy to navigate, and the Robin Hood theme is engaging for children. The Visitor Centre often has activities or exhibits geared towards younger visitors.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe located at the Sherwood Forest Visitor Centre that serves a range of refreshments, including snacks, light meals, and drinks.
Picnicking is generally permitted in designated areas of Sherwood Forest. It's a great way to enjoy the natural surroundings. Remember to take all your litter with you.
The cafe typically offers a selection of hot and cold food, such as sandwiches, cakes, pastries, and hot meals. They also serve coffee, tea, and other beverages.
Yes, there are several pubs and restaurants in the villages surrounding Sherwood Forest, offering a wider variety of dining options. These are usually a short drive away.
Absolutely! Bringing your own food and drinks is a good option, especially if you plan to spend a longer time exploring the forest or want to save money. There are plenty of scenic spots for a picnic.
📸 📸 Photography
The Major Oak itself is a prime photo opportunity, especially with its impressive size and historical context. The ancient woodland, dappled sunlight through the trees, and winding paths also make for beautiful shots.
Yes, while the tree has many supports, its sheer scale and age are photogenic. Try different angles to capture its grandeur. Early morning or late afternoon light can add a magical quality to your photos.
A standard digital camera or smartphone is perfectly adequate. If you enjoy nature photography, a camera with a good zoom lens can be useful for capturing wildlife. A wide-angle lens can help capture the vastness of the forest.
Generally, personal photography for non-commercial use is allowed throughout Sherwood Forest and around the Major Oak. Always be mindful of other visitors and avoid intrusive photography.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a warmer glow. Midday sun can be harsh and create strong contrasts.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Nature Walkers & Hikers
🌳 History & Folklore Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of the Major Oak
However, the tree's immense age and popularity have taken their toll. It is now heavily supported by a system of props and cables to prevent further damage and ensure its survival. While this preservation effort is crucial, some visitors find the extensive supports detract from the tree's natural beauty, leading to mixed reactions. Despite this, it remains a powerful symbol of the ancient forest and its enduring myths.
Exploring Sherwood Forest's Ancient Woodland
Visitors can choose from various routes, ranging from short, accessible paths to longer, more challenging hikes. These trails wind through majestic oak trees, some of which are centuries old, creating a truly atmospheric experience. The Robin Hood Visitor Centre provides maps and information to help you navigate the forest and discover its hidden gems. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, the ancient woodland of Sherwood Forest offers a captivating journey.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit