Sherwood Forest National Nature Reserve

The ancient oaks here are the real draw - some have been standing for over 700 years, which is genuinely remarkable when you're standing beneath them. Sherwood Forest National Nature Reserve is less about Robin Hood tourist tat and more about proper woodland conservation, though yes, the legend hangs over everything you see in Edwinstowe and the surrounding area.

What you actually get is a chance to walk among some of England's most impressive veteran trees. The Major Oak is the star attraction - a colossal specimen with a trunk so vast you can walk inside its hollow middle. Beyond that, there are decent walking trails threading through mixed woodland, and it's the kind of place where you'll spot fallow deer if you're quiet and lucky. Allow two to three hours if you want to do it properly rather than just snap a photo and move on.

Walkers and anyone interested in woodland ecology will find this genuinely worthwhile. Families with young kids might get restless after the initial tree-spotting excitement, depending on their age. It's free to roam the reserve itself, though the visitor facilities near Edwinstowe may charge for parking or admission to certain areas - worth checking ahead.

The camping options nearby are excellent. Sherwood Pines is well-regarded and only a short drive away, while Center Parcs and Clumber Park are within striking distance if you want a broader holiday base. A visit here slots easily into a wider Nottinghamshire trip, particularly if you're already planning to explore the park network.