Sherwood Forest, in 1609, expanded across approximately 100,000 acres in central Nottinghamshire, maintaining this vast expanse for centuries before.
Shaped like a lopsided hourglass, the forest spanned over 20 miles in length and 8 miles in width, covering a band of sandstone with acidic soils running from north to south through the heart and west of the county. Dating back to as early as 1218 and 1232, historical documents referred to Sherwood Forest as the Forest of Nottingham.
The name “Sherwood,” sometimes spelled as Shirewode or Shirwode, likely originated from its boundary marking the division between Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire. Historical records from 958, under the name “Sciryuda,” mention the forest. The boundaries of the forest were delineated by several rivers: the Trent to the south, the Meden to the north, the Leen to the southwest, and the Doverbeck to the southeast.
Large estates within Sherwood were held by the Crown, notably in areas such as Bestwood Park, Clipstone Park, Nottingham Castle and Park, Birklands, and Bilhaugh. However, enforcing forest laws across the entire region was the monarch’s prerogative.
A significant conflict between Henry III and Nottinghamshire’s landowners ensued in the early 13th century over the boundaries of Sherwood. From then until the 1660s, the forest underwent regular perambulations to confirm its extent details. Presently, what once was an extensive wooded area has transformed into a mosaic of woodlands, heathlands, and fields.
The Sherwood Forest National Nature Reserve, situated near Edwinstowe, serves as a sanctuary for ancient oaks, attracting thousands of visitors annually.
In conclusion, Sherwood Forest’s history is steeped in tales of royal disputes, natural boundaries, and centuries-old traditions. Its evolution from an expansive forest to a protected nature reserve only adds to its allure and mystique, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
