The Legend of Robin Hood

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A rebel. A revolutionary. An icon.

Nottingham’s famous outlaw truly is the stuff of legend. An international icon of English folklore whose name is known all around the world.

A charismatic and defiant defender of the poor, Robin Hood continues to inspire and entertain new generations to this day.

But what is the story under the hood?

Deep in the heart of Sherwood Forest, among the ancient oaks, the King’s road between London and York would be raided by outlaws. The rich were forced to surrender all they had, while the common folk went free. Those in need were clothed, fed, and housed. This band of outlaws, who robbed from the rich and gave to the poor, stood against the tyrannous yoke of unjust lords and sheriffs. The leader of these fighters for social justice? Robin Hood.

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The legacy

Robin’s enduring battle with the Sheriff of Nottingham began among the ancient oaks of Sherwood Forest. The outlaw was a stubborn thorn in the side of the establishment, often disguising himself to fool and outwit the Sheriff. Whenever he was captured, he simply escaped. Standing up for those in need, Robin triumphed over tyranny and inequality time after time.

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A symbol of hope for those who need it most

Beloved by the people of Nottingham, Robin’s legacy has only grown over the centuries. As one of popular culture’s most adored folk heroes, his adventures have been retold in every form – from medieval ballads through to Hollywood blockbusters. The legend only continues to spread with many ‘Robin Hoods’ appearing in other cultures – Giuseppe Garibaldi, Ahmad Khan Kharal, Queen Nanny of the Maroons, Chucho el Roto, Lampião, Lakshmi Bai, Geronimo, Ishikawa Goemon – and Nottingham’s own Jerimiah Brandreth and Ned Ludd.

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Join Robin Hood on his adventure

Now, for the first time at Nottingham Castle, you can join Robin Hood’s band of Merry Men to experience the medieval mayhem for yourself. Travel back in time to enter Sherwood Forest and immerse yourself in the stories like never before, in our brand-new Robin Hood Adventures. Compete in a Golden Arrow competition and fight Little John on the bridge with a quarterstaff in our digital interactive games. Complete our series of Nottingham challenges, or dress up as one of Robin’s outlaw companions. There’s a whole host of new activities and ways to experience the timeless tales of the world’s most famous outlaw, Robin Hood

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