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Sherwood Forest is world famous as the legendary home of Robin Hood, outlaw hero whose adventures have enthralled generations, but whose true origins lies shrouded in the mists of time (Link Nottinghamshire County Council, Robin Hood history) . Today, Sherwood Forest is much valued for its unique ecological importance. Broadleaf woodland was once very common in the British Isles, but is now a threatened habitat.

For centuries ancient oaks and the natural sandy heathland of the forest have evolved in a distinct and fascinating ecosystem. The natural decay of fallen timber means the woodland teems with insect life and fungi, which in turn provide food for varied species of birds and bats. Sherwood Forest National Nature Reserve contains some of the oldest trees in Europe, veteran oaks five centuries old and the world-famous Major Oak, still producing acorns after standing at the heart of the forest for an estimated 800 years.

The 450 acre country park is part of the Sherwood Forest National Nature Reserve, designated in 2002 by Natural England (website: Link the Government agency responsible for safeguarding our natural environment.

The site is managed by Nottinghamshire County Council and maintained by our country park rangers, working to a woodland management plan drawn up in partnership with English Nature. Each year Sherwood Forest Visitor Centre, which is located near the village of Edwinstowe, welcomes around 350,000 visitors.

Link Sherwood forest Country Park (Nottinghamshire County Council).