Our vision for the Sherwood Forest Living Landscape area is to recreate the once extensive and interconnected heathlands, woodlands and wood pasture landscapes of Sherwood. In this way, in 20 years time, the once great heathlands and oak forests that linked Nottingham to Worksop will be reconnected, with the song of the woodlark and the churring of nightjar heard throughout its extent and where views of brown argus butterflies, green tiger beetles, lizards and red deer are common. This will be a landscape where farming, conservation and sustainable tourism can work together for a shared vision that benefits all and provides an inspirational environment for people to live and work.
The Wildlife Trusts
Intrinsic Value
Sherwood Forest is one of the most famous natural areas in the world. The forest today is an area of exceptional ecological importance, containing a European Special Area of Conservation, a National Nature Reserve and many Sites of Special Scientific Interest. It is also home to the largest concentration of veteran oaks in Europe, internationally important species of invertebrates and birds such as nightjar and woodlark.
The Wildlife Trusts
Emotional Value
There cannot be many landscapes more linked with our shared national heritage and culture. The legends of Robin Hood and his exploits in Sherwood Forest are known the world over and have mage a significant contribution to modern culture though stories, poems and songs. To this day the legend remains popular and has provided the inspiration for many films and television series.
The Wildlife Trusts
Financial Value
Whilst not as extensive as it once was, Sherwood Forest remains a significant draw for visitors. The legend of Sherwood Forest in association with Robin Hood still plays a significant part in local tourisms promotions. For people visiting Nottingham from elsewhere in the UK and overseas, Sherwood Forest is likely to be one of the most likely local landmarks people will have heard of and Robin Hood remains the City’s most famous son. However, the true economic potential of the Forest remains untapped and we believe that through restoration of the landscape, new investment in tourism, jobs and the wider local economy can be secured.
The Wildlife Trusts
Societal Value
Sherwood Forest holds a special place in the heart of the people of Nottinghamshire, to people living in neighbouring counties and beyond. The Country Park in the heart of Sherwood Forest draws over 350,000 visitors a year and other areas of the forest such as Sherwood Pines, Clumber Park and Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust’s nature reserves provide important recreational areas for local people to experience wildlife on their doorstep.
In an area much affected by the closure of coal mines and other traditional industries, employers such as Center Parcs and Forest Holidays, and other businesses routed in the landscape, are becoming increasingly important.
The Wildlife Trusts
Get Involved
Volunteering opportunities include: managing and enhancing Sherwood habitats through practical work, assisting with the delivery of environmental education, ecological surveying and monitoring and policing the area for anti-social behaviour.