オンプトンの天然記念物・トップ4

Due to its venerable age, an old legend has manifested itself on this large oak tree: the story of ROBIN HOOD, which has been told over and over again for many centuries - although by no means historically confirmed - and is known and loved from literature and film far beyond the borders of England. This tree is said to have given him and his loyal followers, whose area of activity is located in Sherwood Forest, shelter here. You may want to believe it or not - the main thing is: the myth lives on!

The 'Medusa Oak' is a Sherwood Forest icon, 'she' lives on the northern edge of Birklands forest in the Sherwood Forest National Nature Reserve. Unlike some of the other trees in the Sherwood Forest landscape that bear ancient names from the past, Medusa got her name from the modern Rangers in the Sherwood Forest National Nature Reserve. (Mercian Archaeological Services)

In 2022, the Major Oak was selected as one of 70 ancient trees from around the UK to take their place in the Queen's Green Canopy, a 70th anniversary program to inspire the planting of new trees across the country. This oak is very old and must be supported because of its weight.

The Major Oak is said to have been the shelter of Robin Hood and his merry men. One thing is certain: It's very old, and is probably Britain's most visited tree.

Chopped down, but came back with vengeance

Once you are there, there are multiple trails to choose from. Terrain suitable for a pushchair/wheelchair depending on the trail choice. Car park - spacious, daily cost of £4.50.

Honestly not much to see but may be of interest to Robin Hood fans. Robin Hood's Cave near Ollerton is situated on a bend in the River Maun north of the village it consists of an outcrop of Sherwood Sandstone which Robin Hood reputedly used as one of his many hideaways. The river at this point, and the 'cave' are only a few yards from the route of the King's Highway to York which formed the eastern boundary of Sherwood Forest from the 13th century. This was the main routeway through Sherwood Forest from Nottingham to York. The location would therefore have been a great ambush site.

Board with more information about the oldest Oak tree in England