January 2016
Sunday 3rd January
10.30am – 1.00pm
New Year Walk
Join us for a leisurely stroll through the forest, looking at the woodland and its history.
£3.00 Adults, £1.50 Children
Saturday 16th January
10.00am – 12.00noon
Big Garden Bird Watch Warm-Up
Pre-booking is essential for this event which will prepare you for the RSPB Big Garden Bird Watch on 30th /31st
January. We will have a walk to our wildlife area to see what birds are around, do a quick quiz and then return
indoors to make a bird feeder. Wrap up warm and don’t forget to bring your binoculars. Suitable for ages 7 years
and upwards. £3.00 per person
February
Saturday 6th February
6.45pm – 9.30pm
Stargazing
Wrap up warm and join the Rangers and staff from a local Observatory looking at the different constellations in the
night sky. Booking is essential, please call 01623 823202 to reserve your place.
£5.00 per person
Sunday 7th February
10.3am – 2pm
Coppicing Workshop
Join Ranger Graeme Turner to learn the skill of coppicing and understand its history and importance in the
woodland.
Due to the sharpness of the tools used this course is open to responsible adults only.
£20 per person
Tuesday 16th February
11am – 2.00pm
Bird Box Making
Join the Sherwood Volunteers and Rangers on this bird box making session. All materials and tools will be provided.
Phone 01623 823202 to book a place.
£5.00 per box (Subject to availability)
Saturday 20th February
11am-12noon
Bird Feeders
Come along for this one hour session; making a selection of bird feeders and ideas to take away to help the birds in
your garden. Bring a bag to take your feeders home in! Handling seeds, fruit and nuts. Phone 01623 823202 to
book a place.
£2.50 per person (each paying person will take away one of each feeders)
Sunday 21st February
10.30am – 3pm
Community Woodland Day
Come along and get stuck in on our community woodland day, the rangers and wardens want your help in restoring
an area of abandoned woodland, come tackle invasive and unwanted species and learn about why we’re doing it and
how it will benefit the site and nature.
Free
10 March 2016
Saturday 27th February
10.30am – 12noon
Winter Tree ID
Do you get oak mixed up with ash or wonder what the difference is between sweet chestnut and horse chestnut?
Then come along on this walk to learn techniques of identification and the uses of different types of wood.
Phone 01623 823202 to book a place.
£3 Adults, £1.50 Children
Sunday 28th February
Big Orienteering Event – not our event.
March
th
Sunday 6 March
10am – 3.30pm
Tree Felling Workshop
Ever wondered how to fell a tree safely? Ever wondered what to do when you’ve felled it? Well why not come along
to our basic tree felling course, where the experienced staff will take you through the stages of felling and
processing a tree, you even get to take your tree home as processed firewood! Due to the nature of this course no
under 16’s
£25 per person
Saturday 12th March
7.00am – 9.00am
Woodpecker Ramble
Join the Rangers and RSPB Conservation Officer for Nottinghamshire and Lowland Derbyshire Carl Cornish as you go
in search of woodpeckers within Sherwood Forest NNR.
Pre–book your place by calling 01623 823202.
Adults £3, Children £1.50
Saturday 19th March
10.00am – 12noon
Birklands Ringing Group
Join the members of the Birklands Ringing Group as they operate a ringing station close to the visitor centre.
Get close up views of birds in the hand as they are ringed, aged and sexed before being released unharmed back
into the wild. Please note in the event of poor weather this event may be cancelled at short notice.
Free Event
Saturday 26th March
10.30am – 12.30pm
Willow Weaving
Come along for this willow weaving workshop to make an obelisk for your home or garden. In the garden your
obelisk can be used to support climbing plants such as clematis or sweet peas. Approx. height of obelisk will be 5
feet. Booking essential on 01623 823202. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
£15.00 per person/obelisk
Saturday 26th March – Sunday 17th April
11am – 3pm
Easter Trail
Follow this self-guided trail around the Visitor Centre and woodland to discover lots of fascinating facts about
Sherwood Forest and Robin Hood. Complete all the clues and claim your reward! (subject to availability).
£1.00 per trail leaflet
10 March 2016
April
Thursday 14th April
11am – 12.30pm
Shelter Building
Come along and build your own woodland shelter, using only natural materials. A ranger will be on hand with helpful
tips and to test if your den is waterproof!! Why not bring a picnic to eat in your den afterwards. (Suitable for aged 4
and above, children must be accompanied by an adult) Phone 01623 823202 to book a place.
Free Event
Saturday 16th April
10.30am – 12.30pm
Willow Weaving
Come along for this willow weaving workshop to make an obelisk for your home or garden. In the garden your
obelisk can be used to support climbing plants such as clematis or sweet peas. Approx. height of obelisk will be 5
feet. Booking essential on 01623 823202.
£15.00 per person/obelisk
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Saturday 23rd April
7am – 9am
Redstart Ramble
Join the RSPB’s Nottinghamshire Conservation officer Carl Cornish for a gentle stroll through this ancient forest to
search for the magnificent Redstart. The National Nature Reserve is one of the best places in the East Midlands to
see this summer visitor.
Places limited so pre-booking essential on 01623 823202. Sorry, no dogs.
Not suitable for wheelchair users or very young children
Adults £5, children under 12 £3
May
Sunday 1st – Monday 2nd May
11am – 4pm
Living History Weekend
Step back in time, to 15c England, during the Wars of the Roses. Walk amongst the townsfolk and travelling
merchants, see the men and women of the camp go about their daily chores and watch the soldiers train with bills
and bows!
Free Event
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Sunday 1st May
4am – 6am
Dawn Chorus
Set your alarm clock for an experience not to be missed and one you’ll be talking about for weeks afterwards. Wrap
up warm and join the RSPB’s Nottinghamshire Conservation officer Carl Cornish for a gentle stroll through this
ancient forest to enjoy a magical early morning concert courtesy of the birds of Sherwood.
Sorry, no dogs. Maximum distance 1½ miles
Places are limited so pre-booking is essential on 01623 823202.
Not suitable for wheelchair users or young children.
Adults £5, children under 12 £3
10 March 2016
Saturday 7th May
10am-12noon approx.
Dogs Are Welcome Walk (Approximately 2 miles)
We appreciate that some of our walks state ‘sorry no dogs’ – so to show that we don’t dislike dogs (actually most of
us are avid dog lovers!) we thought we’d put a walk on especially for dogs.
The aim of the walk is to promote responsible ownership and explain some of the do’s and don’ts we ask visitors to
observe on the Nature Reserve. The walk is not just open to newcomers, regular dog walkers are welcome to come
and learn about some of the management of the site (and share their experiences and pleasure of walking in the
woods with their furry friends!). We do ask that dogs are kept on lead for this walk in case any yellow ribbon dogs
and owners join us (if you don’t know what that is we will explain as part of the walk)
Booking essential on 01623 823202
£3.50 per person and free to dogs.
Saturday 7th May
2.00-3.30pm
Hedgehog Happenings
It’s Hedgehog Awareness Week so why not come along to Sherwood to find out a bit more about wonderful
hedgehogs and take part in a few crafts and activities. Just drop in at any point during the session, no need to book.
Free Event
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Sunday 8th May
10.30am – 4.00pm
Beginners Spoon Carving
The ancient craft of ‘spoon carving’ has seen a resurgence in its popularity. Join Ranger Graeme Turner and learn the
basics of spoon carving. Advice on selecting suitable wood will be given followed by a hands-on session using saws,
axes and knives including how to maintain and sharpen tools. At the end of the day you will leave with at least one
completed ‘Sherwood Forest’ spoon.
Due to the sharpness of the tools used this course is open to responsible adults only.
£30 per person
Saturday 28th May – Sunday 5th June
11am – 3pm
40th Birthday Trail
To celebrate the 40th birthday of Sherwood Forest Visitor Centre, follow this self-guided trail around the Major Oak
path and discover lots of fascinating facts about Sherwood Forest and Robin Hood (subject to availability).
£1.00 per trail leaflet
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Saturday 28th May
2.00 – 4.00pm
Archaeology of the Birklands
Join Nottinghamshire County Council Community Archaeologists as they take you on a free guided afternoon stroll
through the heart of Sherwood Forest to reveal the history and archaeology associated with this ancient woodland.
This event involves a walk of approximately 3 miles and participants require a certain degree of fitness. This event is
unsuitable for young children, pushchairs and mobility scooters. Meet at the Visitor Centre.
Free Event
Sunday 29th - Monday 30th May
11am-4pm
Sherwood Through The Ages
Sherwood Forest has had a long history as a working woodland. Come along this Bank Holiday and meet some of the
characters who shaped Sherwood’s past and present – Romans, Normans and Saxons, Medieval craftsmen and their
families, Civil War and World War One soldiers, even the odd Highway Man or two, and of course the modern day
rangers. This interactive living history experience for all the family is not to be missed!
Please Note this event does involve intermittent loud bangs!
10 March 2016
Free Event
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June
Thursday 2nd June
10.30am -12noon
Summer Mini-beast Safari
Sherwood Forest NNR is world famous for its ancient oaks but did you know over 1500 different invertebrates and
250 species of spiders have also been recorded on site.
Why not come along to this event and get involved with a mini-beast hunt under the guidance of the ranger staff. All
equipment will be provided. Don’t forget your camera and please wear suitable clothing and footwear as those
nettles really can sting! Suitable for children aged 3 and above, all children must be accompanied by an adult. Phone
01623 823202 to book a place. Involves a walk of approximately 1 mile.
£1.50 children (accompanying adults free)
Saturday 4th June
8.30pm-10.30pm approx.
Nightjar Walk
Join RSPB expert Carl Cornish as you go in search of the mystical Nightjar also known in folk law as ‘the goat sucker’.
Prepare to be amazed at the sound of a male bird ‘churring’ at dusk and with a bit of luck you will be treated to the
sight of him displaying and defending his territory.
Please note. This event involves a walk approximately of 2.5 miles and therefore requires a certain amount of
physical fitness and is not suitable for persons with mobility issues, pushchairs or young children. Initially a walk of
approximately 1.25 miles is required before suitable habitat is reached. This event will finish in the dark so please
bring a low powered torch and insect repellent is recommended. Sorry no dogs
Pre-booking essential on 01623 823202
£5 per person (places limited)
Sunday 5th June
10.00am - 12.30pm
Tracks, Trails & Signs
Have you ever wondered what has eaten that pine cone, or left that footprint or even left their smelly calling card?
When you walk through the forest you are not guaranteed to see what it was. So this Ranger led guided walk will
help you investigate the food, footprints and faeces. Learn the difference between Badgers & Bats to Dogs & Deer.
A Gentle stroll for all the family. Limited spaces so call in at Visitor Information or phone 01623 823202 to book a
place. Ranger led guided walks are open to all.
Excellent for young children but under 16’s must be accompanied by an adult.
£3 Adults, £1.50 Children
Saturday 11th June
9.30-11pm approx.
Glow Worm Walk
Have you ever had the opportunity to see a female Glow Worm sitting patiently awaiting the arrival of her mate?
The intense glow from the flightless female can best be described as one of nature’s marvels.
Please note. This event involves a walk of approximately 2.5 miles in length and therefore requires a certain amount
of physical fitness and is not suitable for persons with mobility issues, pushchairs or young children. It will involve a
walk of approximately 1.25 miles before the glow worm colonies are reached. This event will finish in the dark so
please bring a low powered torch and insect repellent is recommended. Well behaved dogs on leads are welcome but
please leave laser pens at home.
Pre-booking essential on 01623 823202
Not suitable for wheelchair users
£5 per person
10 March 2016
Sunday 12th June
10.30am-1pm
Birklands Bike Ride
Sherwood is a busy place and you may have come across the ‘No Cycling’ signs on some of our paths. To learn
where you can ride, why not join the Ranger Team on a 5.5 mile bike ride of discovery calling in at various points of
interest along the way. This is a steady ride on paths and some cross country terrain. All participants should be
proficient cyclists and be aware of the distance. Bring a drink but we will be back at the Visitor Centre in time for
lunch. Cycling helmets are essential.
Pre-booking essential on 01623 823202. Sorry, no dogs.
£3 Adults, £1.50 children. £3 car parking charge
Saturday 18th June
11am-12.30pm & 1.30-3pm
Welsh Clearwing Day (Weather Permitting)
Did you know that the Welsh Clearwing day flying moth is only found in a handful of sites in the UK? It was
discovered in Sherwood Forest in 2008, making Sherwood Forest National Nature Reserve only the second site in
England to record the moth. Part of the nature reserve’s 10 year management plan includes tree thinning to
enhance the area for the survival of this attractive moth. So why not pop along and learn a little bit more about the
moth and if the sun shines we may even be able to lure males to our pheromone traps for a close up view.
Free Event
Sunday 19th June
Father’s Day Craft
11am – 12.30pm
Join the Ranger Team for a spot of crafting to make gifts for Dad or Granddad. Just drop in at any point between
11am and 12.30pm.
50p per child (accompanying adults free)
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Saturday 25th June
10.30am – 12noon
Mini–beast Hotel
To coincide with National Insect Week (20th – 26th June). Come and make a mini beast hotel from natural and
recycled materials. Afterwards pick up your mini-beast spotter sheet for your walk around Sherwood Forest.
Suitable for children aged 3 and above, drop in sessions
£1.50 per hotel
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Saturday 25th June
9.30pm-11pm approx.
Glow Worm Walk
Have you ever had the opportunity to see a female Glow Worm sitting patiently awaiting the arrival of her mate?
The intense glow from the flightless female can best be described as one of nature’s marvels.
Please note. This event involves a walk of approximately 2.5 miles in length and therefore requires a certain amount
of physical fitness and is not suitable for persons with mobility issues, pushchairs or young children. It will involve a
walk of approximately 1.25 miles before the glow worm colonies are reached. This event will finish in the dark so
please bring a low powered torch and insect repellent is recommended. Well behaved dogs on leads are welcome but
please leave laser pens at home.
Pre-booking essential on 01623 823202
£5 per person
10 March 2016
July
Saturday 2nd & Sunday 3rd July
10.30am – 4.30pm
Nature Photography Courses
Wildlife photographer, Barbara Meyer offers 2 Nature Photography courses at the Sherwood Forest Visitor Centre.
The Nature Photography for Beginners on Saturday will help participants to understand how their camera works
and how they can achieve certain effects through different settings, while our customers on the Nature
Photography II course on Sunday will learn more about different types of photography (landscape, wildlife and
macro) and what lenses to use when as well as how to work with different light conditions. The courses can be
booked individually (£75 per person) or as a package, i.e. both courses booked together (£135 per person).
The above-mentioned prices include coffee or tea during breaks plus lunch.
You can book your place via www.bigcatphotography.co.uk/nature-photography-courses
Saturday 9th July
8.30pm-9.30pm approx.
Bat Walk
Did you know that a Pipistrelle Bat can devour over 3,000 midges a night and baby bats cling to their mothers when
mum flies in search of food? Join a Ranger on this evening walk to learn more about the bats of Sherwood Forest
and their association with the world famous Ancient Oaks.
This event will involve a gentle stroll of approximately 1.5 miles and finishes in the dark. Please bring a low powered
torch and insect repellent is recommended.
Places are limited so pre-booking is essential on 01623 823202
£5 per person
Saturday 23rd July – Sunday 4th September
11.00am – 3.00pm
Summer Trail
This fun filled self-guided trail will lead you around the Visitor Centre and to the Major Oak. Find out how much you
know about Robin and the forest where he lived.
£1 per trail leaflet
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Saturday 23rd July
10.30am – 12noon
Butterfly Hunt
Join one of our Rangers on a butterfly stroll, to see how many species we can find today. You will also learn the basic
survey and identification skills needed to take part in Butterfly Conservation Big Butterfly Count. Also get the chance
to create your own fluttery butterfly on a stick to take home. Walk is approximately 1mile, family event suitable for
children aged 4 -12. Booking essential, phone 01623 823202.
£2.50 children (accompanying adults free)
Wednesday 27th July
From 11am (story walk 2.45pm-3.45pm)
In The Footsteps Of Robin Hood
Return to the year 1248 and follow in the footsteps of Robin Hood. On your travels you may well come across
Robert of Wentbridge, one of Robin’s faithful band as he wanders the paths of Sherwood Forest. You can join him
on a gentle wander between 2.45pm and 3.45pm through the forest as he tells tales of Sherwood’s most famous
outlaw. For additional information call Visitor Information on 01623 823202.
Adults £3 children £1.50
10 March 2016