About two miles to the north-east of Nottingham on Wells Road, an ancient well was rediscovered in a car park in 1987. Some historical sleuthing established that this was the well first known as the “Owswell”, and later “St. Anne’s Well”, but as early as 1500 had been dubbed “Robin Hood’s Well” because of a story about a brawl involving the Merry Men upon the site. The well had been covered over and lost during the construction of a railway line in 1887.

Nottingham Castle plays a key part in some Robin Hood myths. The historical castle was first built of wood in 1067, then replaced with a stone castle by Henry I in the early 1100s. When Richard the Lionheart left regents to rule in his stead when he left on the Third Crusade in 1190, his brother Prince John was left behind to scheme for the throne. John attacked and seized Nottingham castle in 1194, and Richard had to lay siege to it to get him out again after his return. That stone castle was finally razed in 1649, and the current castle mansion is very different; however, the stone caves and dungeons beneath the hill on which it sits are still said to be tinged with some of Robin Hood’s romance.

For the visitor fascinated by the Robin Hood myth and imagery, there are numerous tours, guidebooks, and gift shops centred around the outlaw. There is even a tourist attraction called “The Tales of Robin Hood”, taking visitors through a recreated medieval countryside in “adventure cars” to witness scenes from the legend, then returning them to a banqueting hall for an authentic medieval feast.

Those who love history, adventure, and swashbuckling fun will all find what they are looking for in Nottingham.

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