A day out in Sherwood

By the Just Nottinghamshire Dating editors · Checked 8 November 2026 · 2 min read

In shortStart at the RSPB visitor centre in Edwinstowe and walk to the Major Oak, which is thought to be over 1,000 years old. If you want to ride, Sherwood Pines has trails and bike hire, and Clumber Park has a lakeside loop and cycle hire too.

Key facts

Sherwood Forest National Nature Reserve	450 acres of veteran oaks
Major Oak	Thought to be over 1,000 years old
Sherwood Pines	Over 3,300 acres, free entry, bike hire
Clumber Park lakeside walk	6 miles, 3 to 5 hours

Sherwood is a proper day out, so it suits a second or third date more than a first. Plan where you will park and eat before you go. Here are three ways to spend the day.

The Major Oak and the reserve

Sherwood Forest National Nature Reserve covers 450 acres of veteran oaks, including the Major Oak. Parking at the visitor centre is charged, and RSPB members park free.

Source: Visit Nottinghamshire: Free days out, checked 8 November 2026

Ride the trails at Sherwood Pines

Sherwood Pines covers more than 3,300 acres, with free entry, trails and bike hire. Riding side by side is a good way to relax if you are both a bit nervous.

Source: Visit Nottinghamshire: Free days out, checked 8 November 2026

After-dark walks with the RSPB

The RSPB runs guided bat and glow-worm walks in Sherwood Forest after nightfall. A guide means you are not alone in the woods in the dark, which is the safer way to do it.

Source: RSPB: Sherwood Forest Visitor Centre and Nature Reserve, checked 8 November 2026

Questions

Is Sherwood Forest free?

Walking in the reserve is free, but parking at the visitor centre is charged. RSPB members park for free.

Is the visitor centre open every day?

Most days, but it closes on 25 December. Check the RSPB opening times page before you travel.

Is it safe to walk in the forest after dark?

Stick to daylight for walks on your own. If you want the forest at night, book one of the RSPB's guided bat or glow-worm walks.