October has more than enough to give you the shivers at Sherwood Forest and Budby South Forest.
The month starts with Looker, a free art exhibition and the first ever on the Major Oak Trail, displaying the work of visual artist Gary Dawes. His thought-provoking images focus on eye-like features on trees, turning the attention on the humans in the forest.
If you’re in need of something a little more relaxing, why not try some autumnal Forest Bathing, absorbing the woodland energy to release the stresses and strains of life?
Sherwood’s popular programme of Robin Hood-themed storytelling walks continues with characters from the age of the legendary outlaw recounting the deeds of the Merry Men as they thwart the Sheriff of Nottingham time and again.
Half-term gets underway with Halloween Whodunnit? Family Trails. Can you track down the thief who stole squirrel’s juicy acorns? Or piece together the clues which reveal who ate the Trick or Treat haul of yummy chocolate coins?
Acclaimed children’s author Sarah Ann Juckes is Writer in Residence at Sherwood from 22ndto 26th October, taking inspiration from the landscape for her next book and leading creative writing drop-in and bookable sessions for children.
There are Witches and Warlocks Den Building sessions for kids to create a woodland hideaway just big enough to stir a cauldron in before enjoying a story and some warming hot chocolate.
It gets ever more creepy as Halloween nears. The Sinister Scares Walks will take you into the forest on a grisly trek in the darkness.
Finally, the infamous Tales from The Gruesomewood walks are also a venture into the forest for only the bravest souls as daylight fades and night covers the land.
To find out more, go online at www.visitsherwood.co.uk.