Sherwood Forest, Rufford Country Park (13 Miles, Moderately Easy)

I'd like to think that Robin Hood and his Merry Men had a bit of the Marauder spirit in them, so I'm sure we'll feel right at home retracing the legendary outlaw's footsteps through Sherwood Forest and the surrounding countryside.

As we traverse the famous Nottinghamshire woodlands, keep your eyes peeled for several ancient oaks, between 800 and 1,000 years old, including the Major Oak, Robin of Loxley's supposed hideout, now propped up with dozens of supports.

We'll also pass through Sherwood Pines, another expansive woodland, home to both Centre Parks and Forest Holidays sites.

Additionally we'll visit the resplendent Rufford Abbey and Gardens, where we may or may not steal from the rich and give to the less well-off hikers.

Not a hill to be seen on this one, hence the moderately easy rating. Lots of places for a coffee and a loo break too if that's a concern.

Meeting point

9:45 AM at Sherwood Forest Visitor Centre.

Parking

Sherwood Forest Main Car Park, which is £5 all day or free for RSPB members:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/drvC4bcQkz8ZLRsy9

Or you might be able to find some free on-street parking in Edwinstowe.

Public transport

The 8:20am Sherwood Arrow bus from Nottingham gets to Sherwood Forest in plenty of time for the walk.

The nearest train station is Mansfield. Shout up if you need a lift.

Dogs

Well behaved dogs are welcome on the walk and in the pub afterwards.

What to bring

Please bring a packed lunch, water and appropriate clothing/footwear for the weather and terrain.

DISCLAIMER

Please acknowledge the following:
• The walk is entirely free of charge. You only arrange for your own travel and pub expenses.
• Understand our terms and conditions below (the "IMPORTANT" part).
• Understand how to stay safe outdoors, as you will be responsible for yourself.
• Walk distances can be up to 15 miles or more and we can be out for as long as 5-7 hours.
• We usually stop for a packed lunch and pop in to a country pub for a post or mid-hike drink.

Feel free to ask any questions in the comments section!

Here's a guide to the difficult rating:

• Easy - Short distance, less than ten miles and mostly flat. Suitable for anyone capable of a brisk stroll.

• Moderately Easy - Shortish distance, around ten miles, some gentle hills. For those who walk regularly but don't have too much hiking experience.

• Moderate - Between ten and twelve miles, a few decent hills with potentially steep sections. For those with some hiking experience.

• Moderately Challenging - Longer distance, twelve miles or over with lots of hills. Suitable for hikers who enjoy being out for most of the day.

• Challenging - Around fifteen miles or more, with hills, mountains and maybe the odd scramble. For experienced hikers who like pushing themselves.

• Hard - Long distance, sometimes over twenty miles, with mountains and difficult terrain. Only suitable for fit, experienced hikers.

IMPORTANT
Please bear in mind this is a free of charge, self-guided trip with a hobby group. It is not organised by a business nor any entity with commercial purposes. Any trip details, travel advice, route planning, instructions and other content in our group merely represent our shared personal knowledge, research and suggestions as outdoor enthusiasts. As this is not a business, there is no "product", "service" or "package" and also no "tour guide", "operator" or "walk leader". Each participant is responsible for their own safety. Even if some of us are very experienced walking outdoors, nobody assumes responsibility for any kind of injury, damage or loss that may happen. Our experienced members volunteer their time and effort to shape a pleasant and quality adventure for everyone. By participating you acknowledge and agree with this disclaimer.