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If you haven’t heard the tales of Robin Hood, chances are you’ve at least seen the Disney movie. But do you know where the tales began? Is it fiction or fact? We’ll help you uncover the truth and tell you where you can go to visit the legend of Robin Hood in real life!
Staring 700 years ago, tales (or really, we should say ballads) of an outlaw from Nottinghamshire who robbed the rich to give to the poor began to circulate around England. Legend has it that Robin Hood emerged in the 14th century when the feudal system was dividing England’s socioeconomic classes. Robin Hood was said to be living in Sherwood Forest with his merry men and always seemed to be on the run from the Sheriff of Nottingham. Whether Robin Hood is from this time or not, the various legends always seemed to pop up during times of economic unrest.
Don’t worry we haven’t forgotten about Robin Hood’s companions. The beloved Little John from the Disney movie often appears in historical records of the legend. And as for the lovely Maid Marian… was she really a love interest of Robin Hood? Some tales say yes! Although historians, show Maid Marian was absent from most of the various legends until many decades later.
While no definite evidence of Robin Hood’s existence has been discovered the places in the legend are very much real and ready for you to visit! Check out some of these stops to put on your Robin Hood trail!
Nottingham Castle
A maze of caves and tunnels, this historical castle will delight and intrigue you! There are many passageways to explore as tour guides deliver tales of murder, intrigue and other dark happenings. Don’t forget to stop out on the lawn to see the statue of Robin Hood himself!
©Chee-Onn Leong
Sherwood Forest
Gnarly trees with knotted limbs, low hanging skies, gardenesque paths and all the things forests in fairy tales are made of, this is Sherwood forest. Walk the paths Robin Hood was said to have walked and be sure to check out the Major Oak, one of Britain’s largest trees which is estimated to be over 1,000 years old.
©Chee-Onn Leong
Edwinstowe
In the village of Edwinstowe stands another statue of Robin Hood and his lady love, Maid Marian. The statue is strategically placed outside the church where legend has it the pair were married. If you plan your visit for August, you can partake in the annual Robin Hood Festival and really see the legend come to life.
The legend may be more fiction than fact, but let your imagination run wild as you explore the tales of Robin Hood!
