Thieves, Friars and Fountain Dale - Day Walk

There are fine wooded stretches at both the start and finish of this walk, with open country inbetween and even a few climbs, rare for Sherwood Forest, though non of these are strenuous.  This is a lengthy but absorbing walk that includes passing by a medieval priory that later became the home of Lord Byron, visiting the village of Blidworth with it's Robin Hood associations, and walking through Fountain Dale, legendary abode of Friar Tuck.  The route is easy to follow as almost all of it is on the well-waymarked Robin Hood Way.

Those of you who know me will know I love the life story of Lord Byron, an internationally known character from the 19th century, who had a passion for both ladies and men.  He was a bi-sexual and his love affairs are legendary.  Therefore we will take a brief stop at the Augustinian priory of Newstead Abbey founded in 1170 passing into the possession of the Byron family in 1539 after its dissolution.  Although converted into a large house, the superb 13th century church frontage remains, and is a good place to catch a breath and a rehydrate. 

At the walks mid-point there will be an opportunity get a pint at a pub in Blidworth with an outside seating area looking out to outstanding views over the Nottinghamshire countryside.

Gay History and Legend

Did you know Lord Byron outraged high society so much that he was refused burial at Westminster Abbey or St. Paul's. His sexual tastes - ranging from his half-sister to assorted Greek peasant boys means he was instead buried in the family vault at Hucknall, Nottinghamshire.

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