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Your guide to the best Sherwood Forest walks
Sherwood Forest, famed for being the main stomping ground of outlaw hero Robin Hood, is a legendary woodland in Nottinghamshire. Aside from it’s many iconic storybook spots, it is known as one of the most history-rich and stunning areas of natural beauty in the UK. This makes it one of the best locations to spend your next getaway, where you can enjoy some of the best Sherwood Forest walks and trails.
When you venture down to Nottinghamshire, you’ll have fun exploring the vast range of Sherwood Forest walks on offer, no matter how you choose to approach your trip. You may want some adventure on your getaway, or maybe a slower-paced, more relaxing time with the family instead. Either way, walks around Sherwood Forest are a must!
In this guide, we'll take you through some of the best Sherwood Forest walks and trails, both within the forest and its surrounding areas, from the Major Oak Trail to the Ranger's path at Sherwood Pines. So, get ready to explore the best Walks in Sherwood Forest…
Walks in Sherwood Forest
If you want to get right into the heart of Sherwood Forest, there are plenty of walks that will take you through the area and showcase the natural beauty within.
On top of that, you can make your experience even better by staying in one of the nearby Clumber Park Lodges – only around 15 minutes away from Sherwood Forest by car – so you can explore as many walks and trails as you want over your stay, with ease.
Here are the top walks in Sherwood Forest to try on your trip:
Greenwood Trail
The Greenwood Trail is a fantastic place to start on our list of Sherwood Forest walks, as this 2-mile circular route takes you through the heart of Sherwood Forest.
Find out moreThis walk is ideal for families and nature lovers alike, offering a chance for you to immerse yourself in the forest's enchanting atmosphere as you stroll along the trail. Some of the things you'll encounter include the ancient oak and birch trees, along with the wonderful wildlife that call this forest home – including the cuckoo with its distinctive sound.
Major Oak Trail
The next walk in Sherwood Forest to experience is the Major Oak Trail. This is a shorter 1.5-mile walk that revolves around the iconic Major Oak tree.
Find out moreYou’ll definitely want to take your time to admire the massive oak tree, which is estimated to be between 800 and 1,000 years old, and rumoured to be where the famed Robin Hood hid from the Sheriff. This true marvel of nature is a must-see for anyone visiting Sherwood Forest.
Among the different walks in Sherwood Forest, this trail is perfect for those with limited time or mobility, as it's relatively flat and easy to navigate.
Giants Trail
The Giants Trail is the shortest among the Sherwood Forest walks, being less than a mile in length. That being said, there’s still so much beauty and intrigue to be found along the trail.
Find out moreThe walk takes you through some of the most stunning areas of the forest, including the large, ancient trees – hence why the trail refers to the ‘Giants’ of the forest. Also, if you visit the forest during different seasons, you’ll see various colours and stages of plant life.
The beautiful views of the forest are just waiting for you to walk through!
Wildwood Trail
The Wildwood Trail is a 4-mile Sherwood Forest walk, being the longest of all four on the list. This makes it ideal for families and nature enthusiasts who want a more active time outdoors.
Find out moreTaking you through a mix of woodland and open areas, this trail provides ample opportunities to see the different landscapes in the area. Also, keep your eyes peeled for the various habitats and wildlife that are protected by The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB).
And of course, no trail in Sherwood Forest would be complete without you and the family trying to walk in the footprints of the famous Robin Hood on your walk.
The best walks around Sherwood Forest
Now that we’ve covered the walks in Sherwood Forest, let’s look at the range of fantastic walks around Sherwood Forest too. Mixing these walks into your adventure holiday allows you to see the beauty within and around Sherwood Forest, all in one.
Most of these walks are sections of the Robin Hood Way walk, which is a 105-mile-long trail in Clumber Park. But these walks are simple sections of this wider walk, which are still worth it for an easier day out near Sherwood Forest. Here are our top picks:
Elkesley to Duncanwood Lodge
This 7.5-mile walk takes you from the charming village of Elkesley to the historic Duncanwood Lodge. Along the way, you’ll pass through the beautiful countryside of Nottinghamshire, taking in the stunning views of Sherwood Forest in the distance.
Find out moreYou'll also get the chance to encounter picturesque farmland, ancient woodlands, and perhaps even catch a glimpse of the local wildlife.
Plus, you’ll only be around 15 minutes away from the start of the walk at Elkesley if you’re staying at Clumber Park Lodges.
Papplewick Moor to Blidworth
This roughly 7-mile route is a true gem for those seeking to see even more of the beauty around Sherwood Forest.
Find out moreStarting at Papplewick Moor, you'll make your way through the picturesque Burntstump Park before reaching the village of Blidworth. This trail offers a diverse range of landscapes, and you’ll get to see things from the Papplewick Pumping Station to riding stables and more.
River Maun near Edwinstowe to Norton
Follow the gentle flow of the River Maun on this 8.5-mile Sherwood Forest Walk and see the tranquil settings of Nottinghamshire up close.
Find out moreStarting in the charming village of Edwinstowe and ending in Norton, this route is perfect for those seeking a peaceful hike with stunning views of the rivers and countryside. Keep your eyes peeled for the different wildlife in the river, including kingfishers, herons, and more.
Creswell Crags or The Harley Gallery
For those seeking a longer adventure, this 7-mile Sherwood Forest walk offers a unique experience. Starting at either Creswell Crags or The Harley Gallery, you'll make your way through the stunning Clumber Park.
Find out moreThis beautiful estate has a rich history and impressive landscapes, which you and the family will definitely want to explore along your walk.
Even better, you can stay right near Clumber Park on your holiday – which is only about a 5-minute walk away from the holiday park. You’ll have the perfect base to both start or finish your Sherwood Forest walks.
Ranger's path at Sherwood Pines
The Ranger's Path at Sherwood Pines is a 5-mile Sherwood Forest walk that will give you a unique perspective on the iconic woodland.
Find out moreAs the name suggests, this trail takes you through areas that are typically off-limits to the general public, allowing you to experience the forest in a way that few others can.
You'll learn about the forest's history from knowledgeable guides and see how professionals manage the area as a working forest.
Nightjar trail
As the sun sets over Sherwood Forest, embark on the Nightjar Trail, a 2.5-mile Sherwood Forest walk that offers a rare chance to experience the forest at night.
Find out moreThis guided walk takes place during the summer months when the elusive nightjar bird can be heard and, if you're lucky, seen.
Along the way, you'll learn about the various nocturnal wildlife that calls this forest home and experience the magic of Sherwood Forest under the stars.
This walk is only £7.50 per person, so it’s certainly something to consider if you’re looking for cheap holidays and great deals for your break.
Sherwood Forest walks FAQs
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions surrounding Sherwood Forest walks, to help you be even more prepared for your next break away:
Are Sherwood Pines and Sherwood Forest the same place?
No, Sherwood Pines and Sherwood Forest are not the same place but two distinct locations. They are, however, located in close proximity to each other. Sherwood Forest is an ancient woodland and Sherwood Pines is a more modern forest plantation that was established in the 20th century.
Do you have to pay to get into Sherwood Forest?
You don’t have to pay for access to the majority of Sherwood Forest to see things such as the famous Major Oak and parts of the Birklands area, but there are fees for parking and entry to some more specified locations, such as the Ranger’s Path walking trail.
Is it worth visiting Sherwood Forest?
It is absolutely worth visiting Sherwood Forest, as it’s a true gem of Nottinghamshire and a must-visit destination in the UK. For anyone interested in history, nature, and outdoor adventures, you’ll be blown away by the forest’s ancient oak trees, rich folklore, and stunning landscapes.