Sherwood Forest & Major Oak
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Sherwood Forest & Major Oak

4.6
·2k reviews·Edwinstowe, United Kingdom

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

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful walks

CrowdLow
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Sherwood Forest & Major Oak

Sherwood Forest & Major Oak

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful walks

CrowdLow
Highlights

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.

4.6
(2k reviews)

"A legendary ancient woodland with the iconic Major Oak, steeped in Robin Hood folklore."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Major Oak

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 Trails

Sherwood Forest

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

Robin Hood Visitor Centre

Robin Hood Visitor Centre

Sherwood Forest

Discover the legends of Robin Hood and purchase themed souvenirs. Offers a nice cafe.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit to Sherwood Forest

Sherwood Forest is a popular destination, especially for families and history buffs. To avoid the biggest crowds, consider visiting on weekdays during off-peak hours. Weekends and school holidays can get quite busy, and parking might be a challenge.

Understanding the Major Oak's Condition

The legendary Major Oak, a symbol of Sherwood Forest, is over 1,000 years old and showing its age. While it's supported and cared for, some visitors find its condition a bit underwhelming due to the extensive supports. Appreciate it as a historical landmark.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful walks
Crowd
Low
When
Spring and Autumn
Why
Beautiful foliage, pleasant weather
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The Major Oak in Sherwood Forest is one of Britain’s most famous trees, but it is now at risk of dying. #itvnews #sherwoodforest #robinhood
@itvnews
24K likes • 515.7K views

🚗 Parking Tips

Be prepared for queues, especially on weekends. Arrive early or factor in extra time for parking. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

The forest has lovely trails, so wear comfortable shoes for exploring the woodland paths. Reddit

Major Oak! 🌳 #History #majoroak #sherwoodforest #nottinghamshire
@history_alice
10.8K likes • 136.8K views
finding our own little Sherwood forest 🌲
adam.northwest
25.5K likes • 131.2K views

🌳 Appreciate the History

The Major Oak is ancient and supported. Focus on its historical significance rather than its current appearance. Reddit

☕ Cafe Break

The visitor centre has a nice cafe for refreshments after your walk. Reddit

So much wonderful history to discover in Sherwood Forest! . . . #sherwood #sherwoodforest #robinhood #trees
history_alice
33.6K likes • 604.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking Tips

Be prepared for queues, especially on weekends. Arrive early or factor in extra time for parking. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

The forest has lovely trails, so wear comfortable shoes for exploring the woodland paths. Reddit

🌳 Appreciate the History

The Major Oak is ancient and supported. Focus on its historical significance rather than its current appearance. Reddit

☕ Cafe Break

The visitor centre has a nice cafe for refreshments after your walk. Reddit

📜 Robin Hood Legends

Learn about the folklore of Robin Hood and his merry men sheltering under the Major Oak. TikTok+1

What Travellers Say

4.6
(2k reviews)

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

Ancient woodland walks
Robin Hood legends
Visitor centre cafe

What People Dislike

Major Oak supports
Busy parking

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. TikTok+1

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

📸 📸 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. TikTok+1

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. TikTok+1

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. Instagram

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. TikTok

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. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Sherwood Forest is a fantastic destination for families. The Robin Hood theme is a huge draw for children, bringing the legends to life. The easy-to-navigate trails, especially those leading to the Major Oak, are perfect for little legs. Reddit The Visitor Centre often has interactive displays or activities that engage younger visitors, and the cafe provides a convenient spot for snacks and meals. Don't forget to encourage them to imagine Robin Hood and his Merry Men hiding amongst the trees!

🚶‍♀️ Nature Walkers & Hikers

For those who love to explore on foot, Sherwood Forest offers a network of well-marked trails through its ancient woodland. You can opt for a short, leisurely stroll to the Major Oak or embark on longer hikes that delve deeper into the forest's diverse ecosystems. Keep an eye out for native wildlife and enjoy the changing scenery throughout the seasons. Reddit The forest's historical significance adds an extra layer of interest to your walk.

🌳 History & Folklore Enthusiasts

Sherwood Forest is steeped in history and legend, most famously as the haunt of Robin Hood. Visiting the Major Oak, the supposed hideout of the outlaw and his Merry Men, is a must. TikTok+1 The Visitor Centre provides valuable context about the forest's past and the enduring myths. Exploring the ancient trees and imagining life centuries ago offers a unique historical experience.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legend of the Major Oak

The Major Oak is the undisputed star of Sherwood Forest, a colossal tree estimated to be over 1,000 years old. Its sheer size is awe-inspiring, with a trunk circumference of about 10 meters (33 feet) and branches that spread widely. Legend has it that Robin Hood and his Merry Men used the tree as a shelter, hiding within its massive trunk and camping beneath its boughs. TikTok+1 This folklore has cemented its place in British history and imagination.

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. Reddit Despite this, it remains a powerful symbol of the ancient forest and its enduring myths.

Exploring Sherwood Forest's Ancient Woodland

Beyond the Major Oak, Sherwood Forest is a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a National Nature Reserve, renowned for its ancient oak woodland. The forest floor is carpeted with bluebells in spring, and it's a haven for diverse wildlife, including rare insects and birds. The well-maintained walking trails offer a fantastic way to immerse yourself in this historic landscape. Reddit

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. Reddit 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.

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