Sherwood Forest was once a vast royal hunting forest covering much of Nottinghamshire, now reduced to a thousand acres but still containing the legendary Major Oak where Robin Hood supposedly hid from the Sheriff of Nottingham. The ancient oak is over 1,000 years old, its massive limbs supported by props. Modern visitor facilities include walking trails through ancient woodland, a discovery centre exploring the Robin Hood legend, and seasonal events. The forest provides an important habitat for rare species including nightjars and woodlarks.