Took a Stroll Through The Iconic Sherwood Forest

We explored the famous Sherwood Forest and found the tree where Robin Hood and his band of merry men, hid from the Sheriff of Nottingham

Ever since I was a little girl, I have always dreamed of wandering through the very mystical and enchanting English woods of Sherwood Forest.

I am a little obsessed when it comes to the story of Robin Hood. Having watched everything associated with the story of Robin Hood. From old black & white television shows to the comical interpretations by Mel Brooks; Men in Tights, and of course my two favourite cinematic versions of the story, Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves with Kevin Costner and most recently Robin Hood with Russell Crowe.

Completely obsessed on the idea of a medieval vigilante fighting against corrupt governments and their leaders, who were forcing heavy taxes and poverty on their people. Robin Hood is a true example of the modern-day hero, we are all looking for today.

Upon driving through the main entrance of the forest, I am struck at how dense; even in winter, this forest is. And although it occupies a large space of land; 1050 acres to be exact, I was surprised to see the entire dense forest doesn’t take up all of this space. Even in medieval times, Sherwood Forest wasn’t a continued swathe of dense forest.

It comprised of; and still does today, a mixture of birch and oak woodlands, interspersed with large areas of open sandy health and rough grasslands. And during the Robin Hood period of the 11^th century, much of this space was also taken up by three Royal deer parks.

Even still, the parts of the forest heavily occupied with dense oak and birch trees is pretty intimidating, and you wouldn’t want to stray too far from the path, in fear of getting lost. It’s no wonder Sherwood Forest was and still is today, the epicentre of many mythical stories and legends in England – particularly when it comes to Robin Hood.

And although the forest wasn’t as leafy as I had imagined, as we were visiting in winter, the forest truly did deliver on enchanting me even more so, than before I had ever visiting this magical place. It was easy to feel inspired by the story of Robin Hood as you wander through the forest.

Or is it a story? In the middle of the forest, there is an ancient oak; which is heavily supported by many beams and cables, to keep it from falling, where locals all believe this was the tree Robin Hood and his band of merry men spent most of their days, and even hiding inside the grand oak tree, when the Sheriff of Nottingham came knocking on the forest doors. On the hunt for Robin Hood and his band of merry men.

Whether the stories of Robin Hood be true or not, the forest is beautiful, exciting and enchanting to visit. I highly recommend anyone passing through the area to take some time out, to take a stroll through the forest.

It’s a peaceful place to contemplate life and enjoy the energy this forest radiates.

Well that’s it – That was the 3rd story in my 3 piece story set of amazing adventures in England. Of course, I have way more to share if you like. Let me know in the comments below if you would like to see more, on the incredible and unique adventures I have experienced in England.

As a thank you for this story, The Sherwood Forest Trust sent across an amazing image of the Great Oak in Sherwood Forest, from the Victorian period in England. The image was provided to them by the Edwinstowe Historical Society, UK.