Renowned for his size and strength, Little John was Robin Hood's
faithful companion and right hand man. Most people will be able
to recount the tale of how Robin met Little John on the bridge
and will associate this famous outlaw with his prowess in hand
to hand combat. People may be less aware that Little john was
also a skilled archer and shared many of Robin's other characteristics.
Little John was the only outlaw to be with Robin at his death
at Kirklees Priory. His grave can be found at Hathersage in Derbyshire.
Will Scarlet
Will Scarlet's involvement with the Robin Hood legend dates back
to the earliest ballads where he is depicted as a trusted henchman
and kinsman.
It is believed that Will Scarlet is buried in the churchyard at
Blidworth in Nottinghamshire
Allan A dale
Allan A Dale was a minstrel whose songs and music were regularly
heard throughout the leafy splendour of the Greenwood. Legend
has it that he was befriended by Robin and became an integral
part of the outlaw band.
Friar Tuck
The picture of Friar Tuck is of a rotund and jolly Friar who became
an indispensable member of Robin's band.
In the ballads Robin made Friar Tuck carry him across a stream
but on the return trip, Tuck drops Robin in the water and the
pair begin to fight. Eventually, the skirmish reaches a peaceful
conclusion and Friar Tuck is asked to join the Merry Men.
The location of the fight is reputed to be at Fountain Dale in
Nottinghamshire.
Maid Marian
In the legend Marian is renowned as Robin's beautiful and clever
companion whose love for the Outlaw led her to a life in Sherwood
Forest.
Tradition has it that the wedding of Robin and Marian took place
at Edwinstowe church which is situated in the close vicinity of
Sherwood Forest.
