Lambing time: Please keep dogs on leads. 🐑

Sherwood Forest and Budby South

Difficulty: Easy

Length: 10.27 miles

Fancy going in search of Robin Hood? this could be your perfect walk.

Parking in the main Sherwood Forest visitors centre car park (pay at meter). The walk crosses the road to the visitors centre itself where you will find the gift shop, cafe and toilets. You now enter the infamous Sherwood Forest, the walk passes the Major Oak heading towards the village of Budby. The walk then heads north to Hazel Gap before starting the journey back to the start.

The walk is mostly on good forest tracks although some were a little muddy in places. There were a few benches on the route. There were no stiles and the walk itself is pretty flat.

It is a perfect walk for well behaved dogs.

Further Information

Deep in the Heart of Sherwood: A Journey to the Major Oak and Edwinstowe

Sherwood Forest, a name that conjures images of greenwood glades, outlaw heroes, and towering oaks, beckons travelers with its rich tapestry of history and legend. And at the heart of this verdant realm lies the undisputed king of trees – the awe-inspiring Major Oak.

The Whispering Giant:

Estimated to be around 800-1,000 years old, the Major Oak is a leviathan among trees. Its gnarled branches stretch out like protective arms, casting shade over a moss-carpeted clearing. Its trunk, a weathered masterpiece, boasts a circumference of 33 feet and an estimated weight of 23 tons.

Legend whispers that this magnificent oak was Robin Hood's haven, a leafy fortress where he and his Merry Men sheltered from the Sheriff of Nottingham's prying eyes. While history may not conclusively confirm this, the oak's character undeniably evokes the spirit of the legendary outlaw.

A Walk Through Time:

A visit to the Major Oak is a journey through time itself. As you stand beneath its canopy, imagine the generations who have sought its shade, from ancient Britons to medieval outlaws to modern-day adventurers. The rustling leaves seem to echo with whispers of tales untold, battles fought, and secrets kept.

Edwinstowe: Gateway to Sherwood:

Nestled near the edge of Sherwood Forest lies the charming village of Edwinstowe. Its quaint streets, lined with stone cottages and pubs with crackling fires, offer a glimpse into a bygone era. From here, you can embark on your journey to the Major Oak, following winding paths through ancient woodlands and breathing in the invigorating scent of pine needles and damp earth.

More Than Just a Tree:

The Major Oak is not just a magnificent specimen of nature; it is a symbol of resilience, hope, and the enduring power of legend. It serves as a reminder of our connection to the natural world and the stories that bind us to it.

Planning Your Sherwood Adventure:

Whether you're a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or simply seeking a dose of magical escapism, Sherwood Forest and the Major Oak offer an unforgettable experience. Here are some tips for planning your visit:

Getting there: Edwinstowe is easily accessible by car or train. From Nottingham, it's a short drive or train journey.
Best time to visit: Spring and autumn offer the most pleasant weather, but the forest is beautiful in all seasons.
Activities: Hiking, biking, and horse riding are popular ways to explore the forest. You can also visit Sherwood Forest Visitor Centre for exhibits and information.
Local eats: Edwinstowe boasts several pubs and restaurants serving up hearty meals and local delicacies.

So, why not lace up your walking boots and embark on your own Sherwood adventure? Let the whispering leaves guide you, the sun dapple through the ancient oaks, and discover the magic that lies within the heart of this legendary forest.

I hope this article has piqued your interest in Sherwood Forest, the Major Oak, and the charming village of Edwinstowe. Remember, the greatest adventures often begin with a single step into the unknown. So, take that step, breathe in the forest air, and let the legend of Sherwood unfold before you.

The Dukes of Newcastle were a British noble family who were prominent in the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries. The title was created in 1665 for William Cavendish, a close friend and advisor of King Charles II. The Cavendish family had been prominent landowners in Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire for centuries, and the Dukes of Newcastle were among the wealthiest and most powerful members of the British aristocracy.

The most notable member of the family was probably the first Duke of Newcastle, William Cavendish, who served as a Member of Parliament, a Privy Councillor, and a Secretary of State under Charles II. He also served as Lord Lieutenant of Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire. He was also a patron of the arts and sciences and one of the leading figures of the Royal Society.

The family's seat was at Clumber Park in Nottinghamshire, which was designed by the famous landscape architect Capability Brown. The park and palace were a popular destination for the elite and the Dukes of Newcastle were known for their lavish entertaining.

The last Duke of Newcastle, Henry Pelham-Clinton-Hope, died in 1888, and the title became extinct. The Clumber Park was passed to the National Trust.