Sherwood Forest

Sherwood Forest is an ancient royal forest in Nottinghamshire, England. It once covered a vast area but now remains as a protected nature reserve of 424.75 hectares. The forest is famous for its connection to the Robin Hood legend and contains the highest concentration of ancient trees in Europe. More than a thousand oaks are over 500 years old, with the Major Oak believed to be twice that age. The forest sits around the village of Edwinstowe and the site of Thoresby Hall. The forest has a long history dating back to at least 958 AD when it was called Sciryuda. It was declared a royal hunting ground by William the Conqueror in 1066 and recorded in the Domesday Book. Sherwood Forest was a favourite of medieval kings like John and Edward I, who used it for hunting. Later, parts of the forest supplied oak for St Paul’s Cathedral and Nelson’s fleet. Today, the forest is managed by Nottinghamshire County Council and Forestry England. Visitors walk through paths lined with ancient oaks and wood pasture. The Major Oak, supported by scaffolding, is a major attraction. The forest also includes the River Idle, formed from several streams. A visitor centre run by the RSPB offers a shop and café. Each August, a Robin Hood Festival brings medieval re-enactments, jousting and strolling players to the forest.