Sherwood Forest
Walk Highlights
- Location:
- Mansfield
- Postcode:
- NG21 9QB
- Parking:
Large pay and display car park at RSPB Visitor Centre (free for RSPB members). Can be very busy. Excellent facilities.
- Distance:
- 4.30 miles
- Time:
- 2.00 hours
- Difficulty:
- Moderate
- Terrain:
Terrain: A network of generally well-maintained paths through ancient oak woodland and newer mixed woodland. Main paths (e.g., to the Major Oak) are often wide, surfaced (compacted stone/gravel), and relatively flat, making them accessible for pushchairs and some wheelchairs. Smaller, less formal paths are earthier, can be uneven with tree roots, and may become muddy after rain. The terrain is mostly gently undulating.
- Facilities:
- Toilets, Cafe
- Get Directions:
-
Get driving directions to the starting point:
Dog-Centric Details
- Stile-Free Walk:
- Yes
- Poo Bins Available:
- Yes
- Secure/Fenced Area:
- No
- Dog Water Source:
- No
- Dog Notes:
Dog Considerations:
- Leads: Sherwood Forest is a very popular destination and an SSSI. Dogs are very welcome but **must be kept on leads on all main paths, around the Visitor Centre, near the Major Oak, and in any areas where signage indicates**. This is to protect the ancient trees (soil compaction around roots), sensitive ground flora, wildlife (including rare invertebrates and birds), and for the comfort and safety of all visitors on often busy paths. Some quieter, less formal paths deeper in the wider forest *might* offer opportunities for very well-controlled dogs off-lead if no one else is around and away from sensitive areas, but the general expectation is on-lead for most of a typical visit.
- Water: Natural water sources are limited and may not be suitable. Carry fresh water for your dog. Water bowls are often provided outside the Visitor Centre cafe.
- Wildlife: The forest is rich in ancient trees and supports a huge diversity of invertebrates, fungi, birds (woodpeckers, nuthatches), and some mammals. It is vital that dogs do not disturb this fragile ecosystem. Deer may also be present in wider areas.
- Dog Bins: Plentifully available around the Visitor Centre, car parks, and along the main paths leading to the Major Oak.
- Hazards: The Major Oak is protected by fencing to prevent root compaction – do not allow dogs (or people) inside the fenced area. Uneven paths, tree roots. Can be very busy with people. Ticks are present. Falling branches from ancient trees are a natural hazard (heed any warning signs).
- EV Charger Nearby:
- No
- Fuel Station Nearby:
- No
- Livestock Information:
- Off-Leash Policy:
- On-Leash Only
- Dog Traffic:
- Moderate
- Seasonal Advice:
- Height Restriction:
- No
- Printable Version:
- PLUS Feature
A circular dog friendly walk through Sherwood Forest, in Nottinghamshire. This walk is marked as the Wildwood Trail and will allow you to experience the different habitats, landscapes and wildlife in Sherwood Forest. Sherwood Forest itself is famous for its historic association with the legend of Robin Hood.
How to get there
The Sherwood Forest Visitor Centre is just outside the pretty village of Edwinstowe on the B6034, between the A6075 and A616. Visitors using a satnav can use the postcode for the Sherwood Forest Visitor Centre: NG21 9RN. However, please note the Visitor Car Park is on the opposite side of Swinecote Road (B6034) to the Visitor Centre and is signposted upon approach.
Travelling from the South
From the south via the M1, take junction 21a and then the A46 towards Newark, before heading north on the A6097, then A614 and B6034 to Edwinstowe.
Travelling from the North
From the north via the M1, take junction 31 and follow the A57 to Worksop, then the B6034 heading south.
Starting Point: Sherwood Forest Visitor Centre, Edwinstowe, Nottinghamshire (Postcode: NG21 9RN).
Approximate Distance: 1.5 - 4 miles (2.4 - 6.4 km) or more, with several well-waymarked trails of varying lengths focusing on different aspects of this legendary forest.
Estimated Time: 1 - 2.5 hours, depending on the chosen trail and time spent at the Major Oak or Visitor Centre.
Walk Description:
1. From the Sherwood Forest Visitor Centre: Start your walk from the modern RSPB-managed Visitor Centre, which has information, a shop, cafe, and toilets. Pick up a trail map here.
2. The Major Oak Trail (Main Route): The most popular walk is the well-signposted trail leading to the legendary Major Oak, said to be Robin Hood's principal hideout. This iconic tree is estimated to be 800-1000 years old. The path is generally wide and accessible.
3. Exploring Other Waymarked Trails: Several other waymarked trails of varying lengths (e.g., Giants Trail, Greenwood Trail) allow you to explore different parts of the ancient oak woodland and see other veteran trees, as well as areas of birch, pine, and newer planting.
4. Ancient Woodland Atmosphere: As you walk, appreciate the unique atmosphere created by the ancient, gnarled oak trees, many of which are several centuries old and support a vast array of life.
5. Nature Reserve Exploration: Sherwood Forest is a National Nature Reserve (NNR). Information boards often highlight the special wildlife and conservation efforts taking place.
Highlights:
- Visiting the legendary Major Oak, one of Britain's most famous trees.
- Walking through a significant area of ancient oak woodland, a rare and precious habitat.
- Excellent, modern RSPB Visitor Centre with good facilities.
- Well-maintained and often accessible paths suitable for families.
- The rich folklore and history associated with Robin Hood.
- Opportunities to spot diverse woodland wildlife, especially invertebrates and birds.
Tips for Your Walk:
- RSPB Sherwood Forest Website: Check for the latest visitor information, opening times, trail maps, parking charges, and any events.
- Parking Charges: Parking at the official Visitor Centre car park is usually pay and display (or free for RSPB members), with proceeds supporting the forest's conservation.
- Respect the Ancient Trees: Do not climb on the Major Oak or other veteran trees, and stay outside protective fences to prevent damage to their delicate root systems.
- Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes are fine for main paths. Waterproof footwear better for smaller trails after rain.
- Events: Sherwood Forest hosts many events, including the popular Robin Hood Festival in summer, which can make it very busy.
A walk in Sherwood Forest offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature, history, and legend, best enjoyed with dogs responsibly on leads to protect this special environment.
Grid Reference: SK 626 670
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Information Accuracy
Conditions can change. Please verify critical information locally. Your safety is your responsibility.
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