
Sherwood Forest and Major Oak
Step into legend at Sherwood Forest, home to the ancient Major Oak and the mythical Robin Hood. Explore ancient woodlands and feel the magic of histor...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Sherwood Forest and Major Oak
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into legend at Sherwood Forest, home to the ancient Major Oak and the mythical Robin Hood. Explore ancient woodlands and feel the magic of history.
"A lovely place for nature and stepping into history for you to discover."

Tick Protection is Key
Be vigilant about ticks! Use deterrents and check thoroughly after your walk, especially for dogs. :bug:
Parking Options
Paid parking available on-site (£6/day). Free parking in Edwinstowe village is also an option. :car:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Major Oak
Sherwood Forest
A legendary giant, this ancient oak is believed to be around 1,000 years old and a former hiding place for Robin Hood.

Ancient Woodland Trails
Sherwood Forest
Wander through diverse and ancient trees, following well-marked paths that offer a peaceful escape into nature.

Robin Hood's Legacy
Sherwood Forest
Feel the magic of the legendary outlaw's home. Imagine the tales of Robin Hood and his Merry Men in this historic setting.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Legend
Tick Awareness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Tick Protection is Key
Be vigilant about ticks! Use deterrents and check thoroughly after your walk, especially for dogs. :bug:
Parking Options
Paid parking available on-site (£6/day). Free parking in Edwinstowe village is also an option. :car:
Explore the Trails
Well-marked trails for all abilities. The Giants Trail is recommended for seeing more large oaks. :hiking_boot:
Family Fun
Kids enjoy adventure playgrounds and open spaces. Ice cream vans are available but can be pricey. :icecream:
Tips
from all over the internet
Tick Protection is Key
Be vigilant about ticks! Use deterrents and check thoroughly after your walk, especially for dogs. :bug:
Parking Options
Paid parking available on-site (£6/day). Free parking in Edwinstowe village is also an option. :car:
Explore the Trails
Well-marked trails for all abilities. The Giants Trail is recommended for seeing more large oaks. :hiking_boot:
Family Fun
Kids enjoy adventure playgrounds and open spaces. Ice cream vans are available but can be pricey. :icecream:
Visitor Centre & Shops
A decent visitor centre and unique shops precede the forest entrance. :shopping_bags:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Sherwood Forest for its natural beauty, ancient trees, and the legendary presence of the Major Oak. It's considered a lovely place for walks, offering a sense of history and peace, though some note a significant tick problem and can find on-site amenities like ice cream pricey.
"Had another lovely walk here. Such a lovely place for nature. And Such a beautiful place to visit. Stepped in history for you to discover. I guarantee a great day come rain or shine."
Shaun
"As you would expect from such a famous and legendary place, this forestland is very well kept and quite a sight to behold because of the diversity and age of the trees. There are several trails varying in length to explore, a very decent visitor's centre, good parking (only £6 for the day), some activities for children to partake in and the odd medieval festival. A small square of shops preceeds the way to the forest with some unique ones among them.
Note that very near the forest is Edwinstowe with some lovely shops, inns, pubs and historical church (where, according to legend, Robin and Marian were wed)."
Jeroen van Drongelen
"Always enjoy our trips here! great walks and wonderful for the dog to walk too, Kids always enjoy it. I feel a few more bits scattered about for kids would be good but otherwise makes for a nice peaceful day out!"
James Rose
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sherwood Forest is located in Nottinghamshire. The nearest village is Edwinstowe, which offers free parking and a pleasant walk to the forest entrance. Paid parking is available directly at the forest site for around £6 for the day.
While specific bus routes can vary, checking local Nottinghamshire bus services will provide the most up-to-date information for public transport access to the Edwinstowe area, which is close to the forest.
The forest has well-marked trails, including the popular Giants Trail, which guides you through areas with significant oak trees. Maps are usually available at the visitor centre.
Yes, dogs are welcome in Sherwood Forest and the gift shop. However, be extremely mindful of the significant tick problem and take all necessary precautions.
Yes, there is paid parking available on-site, typically costing around £6 for the day. Alternatively, you can find free parking in the nearby village of Edwinstowe.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Sherwood Forest itself is generally free. There is a charge for parking on the main site, but you can find free parking in Edwinstowe village.
Sherwood Forest is typically open daily, but it's always a good idea to check the official Sherwood Forest website for the most current opening hours, especially for the visitor centre and shops.
No, the Major Oak is a natural feature within Sherwood Forest, and there is no separate fee to see it. Access is included with your entry to the forest.
Sherwood Forest occasionally hosts medieval festivals and other events. It's worth checking their official schedule for any upcoming activities during your planned visit.
As entry to the forest is free, advance booking is not typically required. Parking fees are usually payable on arrival or via an app.
🎫 🌳 Onsite Experience
Sherwood Forest offers numerous ancient trees, well-maintained walking trails like the Giants Trail, adventure playgrounds for children, and a visitor centre with shops.
Absolutely! Families can enjoy the adventure playgrounds, open spaces for running around, and the general sense of magic and history.
You can expect to see various woodland birds, insects, and potentially small mammals. The ancient trees themselves are a major attraction.
A few hours is usually sufficient for a good walk and to see the Major Oak. If you plan to explore multiple trails or enjoy the visitor centre, you might spend half a day or more.
Yes, the village of Edwinstowe, near Sherwood Forest, features St. Mary's Church, which is historically significant and believed to be where Robin Hood and Maid Marian were wed.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There is a visitor centre with facilities, and ice cream vans are often present on site, though they can be expensive. The nearby village of Edwinstowe offers cafes, pubs, and inns.
Yes, picnicking is a great option. There are open spaces where you can enjoy your own food amidst the beautiful woodland scenery.
Edwinstowe village has several charming pubs, cafes, and inns offering a range of food options, from light lunches to more substantial meals.
While specific menus vary, most cafes and pubs in Edwinstowe are likely to offer vegetarian options. It's best to check with individual establishments for vegan choices.
Ice cream vans on-site can be pricey. Dining in Edwinstowe offers a range of price points, with pubs and cafes generally being more affordable than high-end restaurants.
📸 📸 Photography
The Major Oak itself is a must-photograph. Also, capture the ancient trees, dappled sunlight through the canopy, and the winding forest paths for atmospheric shots.
Yes, the Major Oak is a striking subject. Try different angles to capture its immense size and gnarled branches. Early morning or late afternoon light can be particularly beautiful.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the magical atmosphere of the forest. Golden hour can be stunning.
Drone usage is typically restricted in protected natural areas like Sherwood Forest to preserve the environment and wildlife. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
Use a wider aperture for portraits of trees to get a good depth of field. For landscapes, a smaller aperture can ensure sharpness throughout. Consider a polarizing filter to enhance colors and reduce glare.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers
📚 History & Folklore Buffs
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Majestic Major Oak
Recent efforts have focused on its preservation, including artistic and scientific collaborations to study and protect it. The tree's resilience, even after past vandalism, highlights its importance and the community's dedication to its survival.
Exploring Sherwood Forest's Ancient Woodlands
Visitors often describe the forest as feeling like stepping into a storybook, with its stillness and ancient roots evoking a sense of wonder and imagination. The RSPB manages parts of the forest, ensuring its conservation and providing opportunities for visitors to learn about its ecology. Whether you're on a leisurely stroll or a more vigorous hike, the ancient woodland provides a serene and captivating environment for all.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit