Looking for something to do in Nottinghamshire? Then make sure to explore the wonderful nature and fascinating history amongst the ancient trees of Sherwood Forest. Walk in the footsteps of kings, dukes and of course outlaws! Sherwood Forest is the legendary home of Robin Hood and his outlaw band and visitors have plenty of opportunities to discover their former haunts. There are also award winning culinary venues, unique nature reserves and unmissable parkland, so read on to discover the things to do in Sherwood Forest you cannot afford to miss! We will also recommend our favourite campsites in and near Sherwood Forest to ensure that you get the most out of your stay.
The Legends of Robin Hood
Famously stealing from the rich to give to the poor, the legendary Robin Hood and his outlaw band made their home in the depths of Sherwood Forest. The royal woods provided shelter and protection, their mighty boughs providing plenty hiding spots to help Robin and his men evade the notorious Sheriff of Nottingham! They also provided the perfect cover for robbing the rich along the forest road… Visitors looking to experience the legends should head to the annual Robin Hood Sherwood Forest Festival. You can take part in a variety of activities from archery to mock battles with Robin and his men, listen to medieval music and take part in family challenges to discover the local nature. If you cannot make the festival then make sure to head to the Major Oak. This enormous English oak tree is 800 to 1000 years old and so legend has it, Robin and his outlaws slept beneath it! There is now a fence around it to protect its vulnerable roots, but you can marvel at this giant of nature with its 10 metre girth and 23 tonne weight. If you want to see more locations associated with this legendary hero then you can follow the Robin Hood Way. While the 105 mile route between Nottingham Castle and Edwinstowe may be a bit long, it is well worth planning some short excursions along it.
Woodland Walks
A woodland walk should be at the top of your list of things to do in Sherwood Forest, with many unique memories to be made amongst the trees. There are a range of options for all abilities, so whether you are looking for a leisurely circular route or a route suitable for a pram or wheelchair you are sure to find something for you. The best place to start is the Sherwood Forest Visitor Centre, which can provide you with all you need for your special day out in the woods. Here you can pick up free guides, book a walking tour and even hire special backpack adventures for the little ones! There are many great walks for all interests including the Robin Hood themed Merrie Tale of Sherwood Forest route, the Priories and Snowdrops route for some knightly tales or you can always choose your own route with well sign posted trails through the forest.
Award Winning Artisan Food
If you are a fan of good food and drink then you are headed to the right place! Recognised as one of the best places in the UK for artisan food, the Welbeck Estate offers a host of foodie activities and delicious locally made treats. The Welbeck Farm Shop is the place to head to during your stay in the region for local produce of a high quality with low food miles and an international reputation. Here you can buy raw milk, which is also used to make the local Stichelton cheese, fresh and cured meat from rare breed livestock, as well as a host of other specialties. If you fancy trying your hand at some artisan cooking then you are in luck! Book yourself onto a course at the School of Artisan Food and learn how to bake, butcher or make cheese on courses of varying lengths. Head to Sherwood Forest and return a master cook!
Great Estates
As a royal hunting forest, Sherwood was an attractive location for the aristocracy over the centuries and they have left an enduring mark on the region. The Dukeries area of the forest is where four ducal estates, Wellbeck, Clumber, Worksop and Thoresby intersect and where you can experience unique landscapes and architecture. Clumber Park is the former home of the Dukes of Newcastle and although its mansion has been demolished the National Trust site has so much left to discover. It has Europe’s longest avenue of lime trees at 2 miles and a beautiful kitchen garden with notable Victorian glasshouses. Thoresby Park is another great thing to do in Sherwood Forest with free access all year round. Make sure to check out the Victorian Courtyard while you are there to watch local crafts people at work, grab a cup of tea and visit the acclaimed gallery space.
Campsites
Now that you know your options for things to do, it is time to explore the options for campsites near Sherwood Forest! Finding the ideal campsite for your trip can be difficult, so in this section we will show you some of our favourites in the area to help you make your decision.
Kelham Hall Campsite
Situated in the grounds of the spectacular Kelham Hall, a George Gilbert Scott designed gem, this campsite offers a unique experience in its beautiful surroundings. Whether you are planning a family holiday or a quiet break away, Kelham Hall Campsite has everything you could need for a fantastic motorhome or campervan stay. As well as lovely toilet and shower facilities, there is an adventure playground for the kids, easy access to many local woodland walks and access to the bar and cafe in the hall. You can fish on the river Trent in the grounds, marvel at the hall’s state rooms or relax in the meadows. It is one of the best campsites near Sherwood Forest and only a short drive to Newark-on-Trent and Lincoln providing an excellent location for exploring Robin Hood country.
Prices start from: £20 per night
Main Rd, Kelham, Newark NG23 5QX, UK
53.089673, -0.849040
Orchard Park Touring Caravan and Camping Park
Just outside the historic town of Tuxford, you will find Orchard Park, a lovely campsite set amongst mature fruit trees in an unspoilt rural area. The campsite is open all year with hardstanding pitches and offers the perfect location for access to Sherwood Forest, the Dukeries, Clumber Park and the A1. Nature lovers can make the most of the many local cycling and walking routes and enjoy the abundant flora and fauna in this award winning conservation site. Guests will have access to the free shower and toilet facilities, electric hookups are available, there are well distributed water mains taps throughout the site and you can buy your food essentials at the reception. What more could you need?
Prices start from: £19 per night
Marnham Rd, Tuxford, Newark NG22 0PY, UK
53.229705, -0.869579
Clumber Park Caravan Club Site
This large 20 acre site is situated within the Clumber Park estate and offers plenty of space and opportunities to explore the 4000 acres of parkland. Visitors love the woodland atmosphere, the easy access to many local sites and the walking, cycling and riding opportunities in the stunning parkland. The Sherwood Forest Visitor Centre is just 10 miles away! Non Caravan Club members are welcome at the site, which is open all year and has 188 pitches. Facilities are excellent and along side the high standard toilet and shower facilities, include a family washroom, children’s play area, WiFi, laundry facilities and a motorhome service point.
Price starts from: £10.40 per night
Clumber Park, Limetree Ave, Worksop S80 3AE, UK
53.282485, -1.061656
You are almost all set for your trip with some of the best sites to head for and our favourite campsites near Sherwood Forest. You just need to find the perfect campervan or motorhome! Goboony makes this easy for you with plenty of helpful filters to narrow down your choice and many passionate owners ready to offer you advice. So what are you waiting for? Make wonderful memories with Goboony!
