Thieves Wood and Fountaindale

As the name implies, Thieves Wood was a haunt for outlaws through the years. The king’s highway ran through the wood and it was here that many a traveller met with an unfortunate fate.

A short distance away is Fountaindale, the legendary place where Robin Hood first met Friar Tuck. You can take a waymarked route between the two sites. More about the legend can be found on our audio trail In the Footsteps of Robin Hood which tells you about these places and others.

Haywood Oaks and Blidworth Woods

Haywood Oaks is a small wood with hidden treasures. Mature oak trees, which are several hundred years old, can still be seen throughout the wood and provide a snapshot of the Sherwood from times gone by. At the nearby town of Blidworth you’ll also find Will Scarlett's burial place at St Mary’s Church.

At the southern section of Sherwood Forest is Blidworth Woods, a great location for walkers and particularly popular for horse riding. Set in arable farmland, the woods are welcome cover for a transient deer population and even adders have been seen there.

Reclaiming the land

Since the closure of many coal mines in the late 80s and early 90s, there’s been a great opportunity to expand upon areas around Sherwood Forest. Although these are generally community areas of fairly new woodland, they still offer excellent reference points for Sherwood Forest whilst helping it expand into the future. In particular, at Ollerton Pit Wood and Rotary Wood there's excellent vantage points to enjoy views of Sherwood Forest and the surrounding area.

At Vicar Water Country Park you’ll find a popular fishing lake and spectacular views of Derbyshire and Lincolnshire within the shadows of the headstocks of Clipstone Colliery. Nearby in Kings Clipstone, are the remains of a former royal hunting lodge which was used by King John himself. Look out for the Dog and Duck pub for excellent views of King John's Palace.

There’s a full map of Nottinghamshire, attractions, places to stay and what’s on in the Nottinghamshire essential guide. You can order your FREE copy online.