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Outlaw, visionary and bane of the establishment, everyone knows the tale of Nottingham's hero Robin Hood - who stole from the rich to give to the poor. With the majestic Sherwood Forest on our doorstep, and a rich history of rebellion to explore in the city, there is no better place to learn more about the man and legend so for a true outlaw experience, enjoy our Robin Hood itinerary.
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Please note: the second day of this itinerary is recommended for Saturdays during March – October only.
Start your day at the Sherwood Forest Visitor Centre. The centre’s curved form, created by staggered roof beams, reflects the forest environment and the way Robin Hood and his men, according to legend, used the trees as homes and shelter for protection.
Following brekkie, take some time to peruse the new visitor centre – there’s lots to see and learn there, from the wonderful wildlife that makes its home in Sherwood Forest, to the legend of Robin Hood and his infamous merry men. There’s also a fantastic shop to visit, an outdoor amphitheatre and a brand-new play area where little Maid Marians and Little Johns can let off some steam.
It’s now time to head into the heart of Sherwood Forest, home of the famous outlaw himself. Go it alone and discover wonders of the forest yourself or pick up a trail guide from the visitor centre for inspiration. These varied trails give information about the brilliant wildlife, age-old legends and oak trees that fill the forest, so whether you are inspired by the mighty trees or on the hunt for Robin Hood, find the trail that is best for you. Make sure not to miss the famous timeworn beauty The Major Oak, where Robin Hood is said to have hidden in alongside his band of merry men! However you choose to explore, there’s lots to find in this ancient forest.
Feeling a little peckish after all that outlaw exploration? You can have lunch in the café at the Sherwood Forest Visitor Centre. Enjoy delicious pasties, and sweet traybakes in the stunning view of the forest edge. Additionally, the cafe offers delicious triple-certified coffee which is fair trade, organic and bird-friendly.
Once your lunch has settled, it’s time for an adventure in the legendary Sherwood Forest! Have an exciting adventure in the tree tops at Go Ape! - various thrilling experiences are available. You can also jump on board an all-terrain electric Segways and explore the home of Robin Hood in a modern way.
The final stop of your Nottinghamshire Robin Hood itinerary is the historic village of Edwinstowe. On the High Street, you’ll be greeted by a wonderful statue of Robin and Maid Marian, and a short stroll further up into the village, you will find the beautiful medieval church of St Mary’s, where it’s said that Robin Hood married Maid Marian. The church, which in its current guise dates back to around 1175, is often open during the summer months, but visitors are advised to phone in advance if they are coming some distance.
Time for dinner! Your evening meal and abode at which you’ll rest your weary head for the night is at Dukeries Lodge, just a stone's throw from Sherwood Forest/Pines. This is a family-run hotel with a reputation for excellent hospitality. You can enjoy home-cooked style meals at the lodge's pub. The pub uses fresh and local produce and offers a wide range of delicious meals, beers, wines and soft drinks. In addition, the lodge has been fully refurbished, so you can stay in a very comfortable environment with a sense of tradition and history.
Please note that Dukeries Lodge is temporarily closed for a major refurbishment, due to reopen end of August 2024.
Please note: day two of this itinerary is recommended for Saturdays in March – October. If you wish to complete day two of this itinerary on a Sunday or a weekday, please contact Ezekiel Bone regarding the arrangement of a private Robin Hood Town Tour.
Start your day in Nottingham city, which is roughly a 45-minute drive from Edwinstowe. Head over to Escapologic to try out their ambitious and daring Robin Hood themed escape room, Robin of Lockskey. Do you have what it takes to find Robin Hood’s fabled golden arrow and free the Sheriff from a group of ruthless kidnappers?
Spend the rest of your morning meandering through the city centre streets, which were once the stomping ground of Robin Hood, enjoying the variety of independent shops such as Debbie Bryan and cafes like 200 Degrees.
Enjoy lunch at the stunning Pitcher & Piano, which is housed in a grade II listed church in Nottingham's oldest district, The Lace Market. You’ll be amazed by the interior of this relaxed bar and restaurant: beautiful stained-glass windows, exposed brick archways and stylish furniture. Graze on small plates such as lemongrass tempura chicken and beetroot hummus and toasted pitta, or tuck into a main of sesame coated cod loin or a delicious burger.
For 2pm, head to The Cross Keys pub on Byard Lane in the historic Lace Market. From here, Ezekiel Bone’s award-winning Robin Hood Town Tour will commence at 2pm every Saturday from March – October (be sure to contact Ezekial Bone in advance to check availability and book your place, private tours are avilable throughout the year by appointment). Adults and children alike will love this fun adventure around Nottingham, as you follow a trail of historical facts to discover the truth, with Robin Hood himself leading the way. Learn how simple ballads over 700 years old grew into one of the greatest stories ever told! You’ll also see the town's key sites of interest and learn about its history and culture.
The Robin Hood Town Tour will end at Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem, England’s oldest inn, dating back to 1189, where if you wish to, you can enjoy a pint of ale or two with Robin. This legendary pub is nestled beneath the cliff on which Nottingham's historic castle* stands, and was once a well-known pit stop for crusader knights and outlaws such as our very own Robin Hood. Here you can indulge in a hearty evening meal – there’s loads of traditional pub classics to pick from, as well as some truly unique options such as jerk duck nachos.
To conclude your outlaw adventure, take a short walk up Castle Road for a fantastic photo opportunity. You'll find our famous Robin Hood Statue standing outside Nottingham Castle, the point of his arrow aimed at the gatehouse and the establishment within.
Item |
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Sherwood Forest Visitor Centre & National Nature Reserve |
Ollerton Watermill & Teashop |
Edwinstowe |
St Mary's Church Edwinstowe |
Escapologic Escape Rooms |
Robin Hood Town Tour |
Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem |
Edwinstowe
Mansfield
Nottingham
Fletcher Gate, Nottingham
Nottingham
From | To | Distance * (metric) |
---|---|---|
Sherwood Forest Visitor Centre & National Nature Reserve (53.20295,-1.06399) | Ollerton Watermill & Teashop (53.19847,-1.02237) | 2.54 |
Ollerton Watermill & Teashop (53.19847,-1.02237) | Edwinstowe (53.19625,-1.06636) | 2.65 |
Edwinstowe (53.19625,-1.06636) | St Mary's Church Edwinstowe (53.19521,-1.06437) | 0.16 |
St Mary's Church Edwinstowe (53.19521,-1.06437) | Escapologic Escape Rooms (52.95099,-1.15026) | 25.01 |
Escapologic Escape Rooms (52.95099,-1.15026) | Robin Hood Town Tour (52.95212,-1.14654) | 0.25 |
Robin Hood Town Tour (52.95212,-1.14654) | Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem (52.94863,-1.15156) | 0.46 |
Total Distance * | 31.07 miles | |
Estimated Journey Time | 60 minutes |
* Approximate distance by road