St. Mary’s Church, Edwinstowe

The church sits right in the heart of Edwinstowe village, a solid stone building that's been drawing visitors for centuries - most of them interested in one particular wedding that allegedly took place within these walls. Legend has it that Robin Hood married Maid Marian here, though historians will tell you the truth is considerably murkier. Still, the romance of it pulls people in, and once inside, you'll find a genuinely lovely medieval church worth the visit regardless of outlaw mythology.

The interior is atmospheric without being overdone. Medieval stonework, decent stained glass, and the kind of quiet you don't get many places these days. It's small enough that you won't need more than twenty minutes to have a proper look around, though if you're into church architecture or local history, you could spend longer studying the details. Free to enter, and worth a stop if you're in the area.

This works brilliantly as part of a Sherwood Forest trip rather than a destination in itself. Park at Sherwood Pines Camping (less than half a mile away) and you're perfectly positioned to explore both the church and the forest proper. Center Parcs Sherwood Forest and Clumber Park, just down the road, put you in easy reach too. Walkers especially should combine it with Sherwood's woodland trails - the whole area rewards a proper morning or afternoon. Kids will find the Robin Hood story engaging enough, though the church itself won't hold their attention for long. History enthusiasts get the most from it.