The best walks and hikes around Sherwood Forest
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Hiking around Sherwood Forest offers exploration through ancient oak woodlands, diverse ecosystems, and heathland areas. The region is characterized by its historic trees, including the Major Oak, which is over 1,000 years old. Hikers can experience varied landscapes with birch and pine trees, providing different visual experiences throughout the seasons. The forest's terrain includes gentle undulations and well-maintained trails suitable for various abilities.
Best hiking trails around Sherwood Forest
- The most popular hiking route is Sherwood Forest Wildwood Trail to the Major Oak — Sherwood Forest National Nature Reserve, a 4.9 miles (7.96 km) trail that takes 2 hours 5 minutes to complete. This moderate route leads directly to the famous Major Oak through ancient woodland.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Medusa Oak (Sherwood Forest) – The Major Oak loop from Sherwood Forest NNR, an easy 4.5 miles (7.27 km) path. This loop explores the National Nature Reserve, passing by ancient trees and historical points of interest.
- Local hikers also love the Car Park – Centre Tree, Sherwood Forest loop from Sherwood Forest National Nature Reserve, a 4.0 miles (6.49 km) trail leading through the heart of the forest, often completed in about 1 hour 41 minutes.
- Hiking around Sherwood Forest is defined by ancient oak woodlands, varied forest types, and heathland areas. The extensive network of trails offers options for different ability levels, from easy strolls to moderate hikes.
- The routes in Sherwood Forest are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.75 stars from over 170 reviews. More than 1500 hikers have used komoot to explore Sherwood Forest's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 2, 2026
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.4
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30
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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66
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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31
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The Hall was built about 1702 on land owned by the Duke of Newcastle. The stables and out-buildings were built after 1740. The hall was modernised in the 1750s and Pevsner scholar of the history of art dated the drawing room ceiling to 1751. The Hall, in 1770, like many other buildings in the area, would have to have paid Window Tax. Some houses in the village blocked up windows to save money. Documents show that the owners of the Hall did not pay the tax, possibly as it was a rented property. At this time a new saying was coined, ‘Daylight Robbery’.
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Very busy, with a lot of dog walkers, for those with nervous dogs aim for a quieter time.
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Shewood forest was looking very dead when I visted
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Looks great and great for a photograph also.
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In 1205 King John paid an annual stipend of 4 shillings to the hermit of Clipstone who sang in St Edwin's Chapel in Birchwude (Birklands Wood). The chapel at that time was part of the landscape of Royal Deer Park and Palace of the King's Houses (now known as King John's Palace) that were the royal heart of Medieval Sherwood Forest. The location of the chapel was marked on the 1630 map of Clipstone made by William Senior of William Cavendish Earl of Newcastle. The location is now marked on the ground by an iron cross erected in 1912 by the Duke of Portland.
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Due to its venerable age, an old legend has manifested itself on this large oak tree: the story of ROBIN HOOD, which has been told over and over again for many centuries - although by no means historically confirmed - and is known and loved from literature and film far beyond the borders of England. This tree is said to have given him and his loyal followers, whose area of activity is located in Sherwood Forest, shelter here. You may want to believe it or not - the main thing is: the myth lives on!
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Ignore the other highlight set as visitors centre this has been removed
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More Information
Walk in the footsteps of royalty
From 1066, the Normans set about creating royal forests, vast areas of land (not always wooded) reserved for the aristocracy to hunt. While much smaller than it originally was, your walks amongst Sherwood Forest’s beautiful, aged trees most certainly saw the hooves of royal horses as well.
Not royal but perhaps more greatly loved, the legendary outlaw of Robin Hood is said to have lived and hidden within the forest as well. The first mentions of this loveable rogue appeared in 15th-century ballads and no historian has ever managed to work out whether the man himself existed or not. Either way, the forest whispers his legends and everyone from young children to the elderly will feel a little buzz of excitement walking where he is said to have walked.
Discover ancient yet living history
Aside from outlaws and royals, the best hiking trails in Sherwood Forest lead you past its phenomenal ancient oaks. Major Oak is by far the most famous with its extensive support system; its giant limbs have needed help since the Victorian era. This behemoth is a short walk from Edwinstowe and the visitor centre, so everyone can reach it regardless of ability.
There are over 900 other examples within the forest, making it Europe’s largest group of ancient oaks. With birch, oak, and pines, the woods take on new colours each season, making it a magical place to explore throughout the year.
Seeking out the forest’s inhabitants
You’ll have plenty of company for spring and summer walks in Sherwood Forest in particular, thanks to the area’s abundance of birds and wildlife. Listen for the hollow knocks of woodpeckers, see nuthatches and treecreepers watching you from tree trunks and keep an ear out for chiffchaffs chortling.
A nature reserve, you won’t be surprised to hear that the forest has many important habitats for a variety of creatures. Glow worms, cardinal beetles, foxes, bats, lizards and butterflies all have prime real estate here.
Roe and red deer reside in the woodlands; for the best chance to see them, walk early in the morning when the car parks are empty and the forest is only just waking up. For a different landscape within Sherwood, hike to Budby South Forest, conveniently in the north of Sherwood. This is an open heathland with small pockets of trees and is a beautiful place to stroll.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Sherwood Forest?
Sherwood Forest offers over 50 hiking routes, catering to various abilities. You'll find a wide selection of trails, from easy strolls to more moderate hikes, allowing you to explore the ancient woodlands and diverse landscapes.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while hiking in Sherwood Forest?
You'll primarily experience ancient oak woodlands, including some trees over 1,000 years old like the famous Major Oak. The forest also features diverse ecosystems with birch and pine trees, which change color seasonally, and heathland areas such as Budby South Forest, offering varied scenery.
Are there any famous landmarks or points of interest to look out for?
Absolutely. The most iconic landmark is The Major Oak, a world-famous tree associated with Robin Hood. You can also discover other ancient trees like the Medusa Oak, and explore areas like Budby Heath, where you might spot English Longhorn Cattle.
Are the trails in Sherwood Forest suitable for families with children?
Yes, Sherwood Forest has many family-friendly options. There are short, easy strolls, some even suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs, like the one-mile Dragonfly Trail mentioned in regional information. Many komoot routes are rated as 'easy', making them ideal for families.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails in Sherwood Forest?
Sherwood Forest is generally dog-friendly, with many trails welcoming well-behaved dogs. It's always best to keep dogs on a lead, especially in areas with wildlife or livestock, and to follow any local signage regarding dog access.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Sherwood Forest?
Sherwood Forest offers a unique experience in every season. Spring brings wildflowers, summer provides lush greenery, and autumn transforms the forest with vibrant foliage. Winter walks can be serene, showcasing the ancient trees in a different light. The diverse tree types ensure visual interest year-round.
Are there options for circular walks in Sherwood Forest?
Yes, many of the trails in Sherwood Forest are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Medusa Oak (Sherwood Forest) – The Major Oak loop is an easy 4.5-mile circular path, and the Car Park – Centre Tree, Sherwood Forest loop is another popular circular option.
Where can I park when visiting Sherwood Forest for a hike?
There are designated car parks available at Sherwood Forest, including the main visitor centre car park. These facilities provide convenient access to the trail network. Specific parking details for individual routes can often be found on the komoot tour pages.
Is public transport available to reach Sherwood Forest?
Yes, Sherwood Forest is accessible by public transport. You can find information on bus routes and schedules to the area by checking local transport provider websites or the official tourism sites for Nottinghamshire, such as Visit Nottinghamshire.
What wildlife might I encounter during a hike?
Sherwood Forest is a rich habitat for various wildlife. Keep an eye out for creatures such as glow worms, cardinal beetles, foxes, bats, lizards, and a variety of butterflies. You might also spot roe and red deer, especially in quieter areas or during early morning and late evening hikes.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Sherwood Forest?
The komoot community highly rates the trails in Sherwood Forest, with an average score of 4.75 stars. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained paths, the historical significance of the ancient oak woodlands, and the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of Robin Hood. The diverse scenery and peaceful atmosphere are also frequently highlighted.
Are there any longer, more challenging routes for experienced hikers?
While many trails are easy to moderate, more ambitious hikers can explore sections of the 105-mile Robin Hood Way, which traverses parks, forests, and beauty spots of Nottinghamshire. There are also 14 circular routes that branch off this main path, offering focused explorations.
Are there guided walks available in Sherwood Forest?
Yes, guided nature walks are available in Sherwood Forest. These walks can enhance your knowledge of the diverse ferns, flowering plants, and trees within the forest's ecosystem, and provide excellent opportunities for birdwatching. Check the official Sherwood Forest website for schedules.
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