Special Events

The 17th Annual Robin Hood Festival

30th July to 5th August 2001

 

The 17th Annual Robin Hood Festival in Sherwood Forest, Nottinghamshire's biggest celebration of the life and times of its legendary hero, came to a flourishing finale with a week of fun-packed days for all the family.

We are indebted to Gerry and Adrian Thorpe from G&A Productions and Nottinghamshire County Council Tourism Unit for their assistance in compiling the images on this page.

Gerry joins in the fun with Robin and family

At the Visitor Centre, the Billy of Loxley, and What a Palaver were on hand combining music, juggling, jesting and jokes while, in the Open Air Theatre, Alan a Dale & Festa used members of the audience to stage their own special tales about Robin Hood in the Open Air

As in previous years, the highlight of the programme was the popular Jousting Tournaments staged by the Legends re-enactment group.

This year's tournaments were preceded by flying demonstrations staged by Ye Olde Redtail Falconry, the country's leading falconry outfit, which offered visitors the chance to admire the speed, agility and grace of owls, hawks and falcons.

The usual range of market stalls and were on hand allowing craftsmen the opportunity to demonstrate their medieval skills.

The local media kept a close eye on proceedings as Robin of Wentbridge greeted the visitors and the Ratcatcher plied his trade.

The week was once again an enormous success with visitors to the Festival coming from across the world. We were very fortunate that the summer weather was very kind and the very occassional shower did nothing to dampen the enthusiasm of the thousands of Robin Hood enthusiasts who came to join in with the fun. Arrangements are already underway for next year's event, so, if you haven't been before, why not come along next year and experience the sights and sounds of Sherwood Forest for yourselves.

Next year's Robin Hood Festival will be from 29th July to 4th August 2002

Coming next: All the action from the forthcoming Robin Hood Pageant at Nottingham Castle in October 2001.

Many of the gifts, souvenirs and merchandise on offer at the Festival can be found on our Merchandise pages. why not take a look.