Robin Hood Festival 2026 – Edwinstowe, United Kingdom
Overview
The Robin Hood Festival 2026 is a month-long celebration of England’s most legendary outlaw, set deep within the ancient and atmospheric Sherwood Forest. Throughout the entire month of August, the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) transforms the forest into a vibrant medieval encampment where history and folklore collide. Visitors can walk beneath the canopy of centuries-old oaks while encountering a colorful cast of characters, including the heroic Robin Hood, Maid Marian, and the bumbling Sheriff of Nottingham.
This year’s edition is designed to be more immersive than ever, blending theatrical performances with traditional woodland crafts and conservation education. As the festival spans thirty-one days, the schedule is packed with rotating events that ensure no two visits are exactly alike. From spectacular horseback jousting displays to quiet storytelling sessions under the Major Oak, the festival captures the spirit of rebellion and camaraderie that has defined the legend of Robin Hood for generations.
Event Highlights
- Legendary Performance: Professional re-enactment groups bring the forest to life with live combat displays and theatrical skirmishes between the Merry Men and the Sheriff’s guards.
- The Major Oak Hub: Centered around Britain’s most famous tree, this area hosts medieval musicians, wandering minstrels, and fire-breathers throughout the day.
- Medieval Craft Village: Skilled artisans demonstrate ancient techniques in blacksmithing, leatherworking, and longbow making, offering a hands-on look at life in the middle ages.
- Nature and Folklore: The RSPB integrates the natural wonders of the Sherwood Forest National Nature Reserve with the festival, offering guided walks that explore both history and wildlife.
Why Attend
Families and history enthusiasts should attend this festival to experience the magic of Sherwood Forest during its most vibrant time of year. Unlike shorter events, the month-long duration allows visitors to choose dates that feature specific activities like the grand jousting weekends or the more intimate folk music sessions. It is a rare opportunity for children to learn archery in the very place the legend was born, providing an educational experience that is both fun and culturally significant.
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Furthermore, the festival is a must for those who appreciate the intersection of nature and heritage. Because the event is managed by the RSPB, every ticket and purchase helps support the conservation of this ancient woodland for future generations. Whether you are coming to witness the high-energy battles or to enjoy a peaceful picnic surrounded by medieval sights and sounds, the festival offers a uniquely British summer experience that celebrates courage, justice, and the great outdoors.
Date & Duration
- Event Timeline: The festival runs daily from August 1 through August 31, 2026.
- Daily Hours: Most activities and performances take place between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM, though the forest remains open for evening strolls.
Visiting this event? Don’t miss out on these amazing activities and local experiences while you’re here.
Venue / Location
- City and Country: The festival is located in Edwinstowe, Nottinghamshire, United Kingdom.
- Venue: Sherwood Forest Visitor Centre and the surrounding National Nature Reserve.
- Google Maps Address: Edwinstowe, Mansfield NG21 9QB, United Kingdom.
Ticket Information
- Sales Channels: While entry to the forest is generally open, specific event tickets and parking must be booked via the official Visit Sherwood website.
- Admission Type: The festival follows a free admission model for the general grounds, though certain premium shows and workshops require a paid ticket.
- Ticket Pricing: Specialty workshops and arena shows typically range from $10 to $35 depending on the activity and participant age.
- Parking Range: Event parking for the festival is charged at a flat rate of approximately $15 per vehicle for non-RSPB members.
- VIP Options: Special “Supporter Passes” are often available which provide priority parking, reserved seating for main arena shows, and discounts at the visitor centre shop.
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Contact Information
- Email Contact: sherwoodforest@rspb.org.uk
- Phone Support: +44 1623 677321
- Official Website: https://visitsherwood.co.uk/home/robin-hood-festival-2026/
- Social Media:
- https://www.facebook.com/visitsherwood/
- https://www.instagram.com/visitsherwoodbudby/
Getting There
- Nearest Airports: East Midlands Airport (EMA) is the closest, located about 50 km away (~50 minutes drive); Doncaster Sheffield (DSA) is also a viable option.
- Public Transport: The “Sherwood Arrow” bus service runs directly from Nottingham Victoria Bus Station to the visitor centre entrance every hour.
- Taxi/Rideshare: Local taxi firms in Mansfield and Ollerton provide regular service to the forest; a ride from Mansfield station costs roughly $20 to $35.
- Parking: Extensive parking is available at the main visitor centre, though it fills up quickly during the popular jousting weekends.
- Other Access: The venue is accessible via the National Cycle Network Route 6, and there are ample bike racks available for those arriving on two wheels.
Accommodation Options
- Luxury Hotels: Clumber Park Hotel & Spa (4-star, 10 km, elegant rural retreat, ~$160-$260/night); Ye Olde Bell Hotel (4-star, 20 km, historic coaching inn ~$175-$280/night).
- Mid-Range Options: Forest Lodge (4-star, 1 km, located in the heart of Edwinstowe, ~$130-$190/night); Center Parcs Sherwood Forest (Resort, 3 km, woodland lodges ~$200-$400/night).
- Budget Stays: Travelodge Mansfield (3-star, 12 km, efficient and reliable, ~$70-$120/night); YHA Sherwood Forest (Hostel, 1 km, budget-friendly and social ~$40-$90/night).
Reviews
- Authentic Feeling: The actors stay in character all day long and really make you feel like you have stepped into a 13th-century outlaw camp.
- Great for Kids: My children spent the whole day doing archery and watching the puppet shows—they didn’t want to leave the forest.
- Beautiful Scenery: Even without the festival activities, walking through the ancient oaks is breathtaking, but the medieval music makes it magical.
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FAQ's
Is the festival accessible for strollers and wheelchairs?
The main festival areas near the visitor centre and the Major Oak are connected by well-maintained, hard-standing paths that are suitable for most wheelchairs and pushchairs. However, some of the smaller performance stages are located deeper in the woods on natural forest floors which can be uneven or muddy depending on the weather. Accessible toilets are available at the Visitor Centre, and the RSPB team is always on hand to provide guidance on the best routes for mobility aids.
What is the best time of the month to visit?
While the festival runs all month, the biggest spectacles like the horseback jousting and large-scale battle re-enactments usually take place during the weekends. If you prefer a quieter experience with more opportunities for photography and talking to the medieval craftsmen, a mid-week visit during the second or third week of August is highly recommended. The official website provides a full calendar of which performers will be present on specific days so you can plan accordingly.
Can I bring my own food and drinks to the festival?
Yes, visitors are more than welcome to bring their own picnics to enjoy in the various designated picnic areas scattered throughout Sherwood Forest. There are also several on-site options including the Visitor Centre café and seasonal food stalls serving local Nottinghamshire produce and medieval-themed snacks. Please remember that the forest is a protected nature reserve, so you must take all your litter home with you or use the bins provided to protect the wildlife.
Do I need to dress up in medieval costume?
There is no requirement to dress up, but many visitors—especially children—love to come dressed as knights, outlaws, or princesses to add to the fun. You will see a wonderful mix of modern attire and full medieval kit across the forest, and nobody will feel out of place either way. If you arrive in modern clothes but decide you want to join in, the medieval marketplace usually has vendors selling simple tunics, hats, and wooden swords.
What happens if it rains during the performances?
The Robin Hood Festival is an outdoor event and will generally continue in most weather conditions, including light rain. Many of the smaller stages and craft demonstrations have canopy covers, but the main arena shows are open to the elements, so bringing waterproof clothing and sturdy footwear is advised. In the event of extreme weather such as high winds or thunderstorms, the organizers may temporarily suspend activities for safety reasons and will post updates on their social media channels.
