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Visit Nottinghamshire's world-famous Major Oak - the 1,000 year old hideout of Robin Hood.
 

The Major Oak, known throughout the world as the secret hiding place of Nottinghamshire's outlaw hero Robin Hood, is located in historic Sherwood Forest, a 450-hectare national nature reserve.

How old is Major Oak?

The Major Oak is the biggest oak tree in Britain and is thought to be between 800 and 1,000 years old. The world-famous tree weighs an estimated 23 tonnes, has a girth of 10 metres (33ft) and boasts an impressive canopy that reaches a whopping 28 metres (92ft). Legend has it that the mighty oak not only provided Robin Hood with shelter, it was also the place where he and his Merry Men hid and camped on their adventures.

Where is the Major Oak in Sherwood Forest? 

The Major Oak is just a 15 minute walk through the woods from the Sherwood Forest Visitor Centre. Follow the Major Oak trail to see a range of ancient oak trees that neighbour the Major Oak, alongside a range of resident wildlife that also call the forest their home. Keep an eye out for beetles, fungi, squirrels, spiders and bats amongst much more.

The RSPB’s work in the forest continues to protect the Major Oak and it’s surrounding woodland. The organisation is focused on helping raise the next generation of ancient oak trees which will guarantee the future of Sherwood Forest. Today, there is a fence around the famous tree in order to prevent visitors’ feet from compressing the ground over the tree’s roots. This will ensure that the tree stays healthy for many years to come, and visitors worldwide can enjoy the legend of Robin Hood!

For details about visiting the Major Oak, including parking and opening times, please visit the Sherwood Forest Visitor Centre page.