Sherwood Forest and the Major Oak Circular
Nottinghamshire
Sherwood Forest is managed by the RSPB as a National Nature Reserve, protecting one of the largest concentrations of ancient oak trees in Europe. The Major Oak, the legendary tree said to have sheltered Robin Hood, is the headline attraction, its massive canopy supported by scaffolding and surrounded by a protective fence. But the wider forest, explored by the 4-mile Wildwood Trail, reveals heathland, birch groves and areas of newer planting alongside the veteran oaks, some of which are over 800 years old. The shorter 1.5-mile Major Oak Trail is the most popular route. The paths are surfaced and well maintained throughout.
Dogs must be kept on leads throughout the forest to protect ground flora and invertebrates, which makes this dog friendly walk better suited to dogs comfortable with steady, controlled walking rather than off-lead running. The ancient woodland floor carries rich, complex scent from centuries of leaf litter, fungi and the particular earthy smell of old oak forest, and the heathland sections add variety with lighter, more open terrain. Livestock risk is negligible. The RSPB visitor centre has a café, shop and good facilities, all welcoming dogs outside. Parking is available at the main car park. The forest is best visited on weekday mornings to avoid the busier weekend crowds. A historically significant walk in genuinely ancient woodland.
At a Glance
- Distance
- 2.4 km (1.5 miles)
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Duration
- 1 hr
- Walk Type
- Moorland, Woodland
- Route Type
- Circular
- Off Lead Potential
- Moderate
- Livestock Risk
- Low
- Facilities
- Visitor centre, Cafe, Toilets, Shop
- Parking
- Sherwood Forest visitor centre car park - charged
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Sherwood Forest and the Major Oak Circular dog friendly?
Sherwood Forest is a welcoming destination for dogs, earning a 7/10 dog friendly rating. The RSPB visitor centre, café and shop all welcome dogs outside, and the paths are well surfaced and maintained throughout, making for comfortable walking underfoot.
Can dogs be off lead at Sherwood Forest and the Major Oak Circular?
Dogs must be kept on leads throughout the forest at all times, as the rules are in place to protect the ground flora and invertebrates of this National Nature Reserve. This makes it best suited to dogs who are comfortable with steady, on-lead walking rather than those who need a good run around.
What should I know before visiting Sherwood Forest and the Major Oak Circular with my dog?
There are two main route options , the shorter 1.5-mile Major Oak Trail and the longer 4-mile Wildwood Trail, which takes in heathland and birch groves alongside the ancient oaks. Parking is available at the main visitor centre car park, though a charge applies, and weekday mornings are the quietest time to visit if you want to avoid the crowds.
Visitor Reviews
No reviews yet. Be the first to share your experience.
What’s Nearby?
Walk1.1 mi awayRufford Abbey and Sherwood Heath Circular
Nottinghamshire
A country park loop through the grounds of Rufford Abbey with lake views and woodland trails in the heart of Nottinghamshire.
Walk4.5 mi awayClumber Park Lime Tree Avenue and Thoresby Border Circuit
South Yorkshire
A National Trust estate walk along the 3-mile lime tree avenue and through the parkland surrounding Clumber Lake.
Walk7 mi awayCreswell Crags Limestone Gorge and Robin Hood Way
South Yorkshire
A short but fascinating gorge walk past Ice Age caves with prehistoric cave art and a good visitor centre.
Walk8.9 mi awayNewstead Abbey Parkland and Japanese Garden Circuit
Nottinghamshire
A parkland circuit around the former abbey home of Lord Byron, with Japanese gardens and lake views throughout.
Walk13.7 mi awayRother Valley Country Park Circular
South Yorkshire
An easy lakeside loop through a family-friendly country park, with flat, well-surfaced paths and plenty of wildlife.
Walk14.4 mi awayBestwood Country Park Former Colliery Circuit
Nottinghamshire
A reclaimed colliery landscape on Nottingham's doorstep with woodland and open views from the former headstock.
