RSPB Sherwood Forest and Budby South Forest

The ancient oaks here are what you've come for, and they don't disappoint. RSPB Sherwood Forest and Budby South Forest stretch across woodland that's been around for centuries - this is proper old-growth forest, the sort of place where you half-expect to spot Robin Hood crouched behind a trunk. The RSPB manages it now, so you're here as much for the birds as the trees: woodpeckers, nuthatches, and a decent chance of spotting a hobby falcon in summer if you're lucky with timing.

The walks are straightforward and well-marked. You can knock out a gentle two-hour loop without breaking a sweat, or spend half a day properly exploring the deeper trails through Budby South where the canopy gets properly thick. Kids tend to do well here - there's something about massive tree trunks that keeps them entertained for longer than you'd expect, and the paths are manageable for little legs. Birdwatchers will want to bring binoculars and patience; early morning is always better than midday when everything goes quiet.

It's free to access, and close enough to Edwinstowe that you can pair it with a quick visit to the visitor centre if you want context. The camping at Sherwood Pines is just down the road and genuinely good value, putting you within spitting distance of the forest itself. Come in May or June when the birds are nesting and the woodland floor is thick with bluebells - that's when it stops being just a walk and becomes something you'll actually remember.