The first-ever county council survey dedicated to the world-famous Robin Hood legend is now open.

This is a chance for residents and visitors to give their views on how they see the Nottinghamshire legend, in terms of his image and how he is used to promote city and county attractions such as Sherwood Forest and Nottingham Castle.

The survey will also include a series of questions targeted at local businesses to help gather research on how they may use the Robin Hood brand.

It comes off the back of Nottinghamshire County Council’s visitor economy consultation in 2023 which revealed that Robin Hood and Sherwood Forest were by far the most popular element of the city and county’s tourism offer. Feedback also suggested that even more could be done to showcase the legendary outlaw.

Councillor Keith Girling, the county council's Cabinet Member for Economic Development and Asset Management, said:

“We all know that we have something unique here in Nottinghamshire which we are very proud of. The Robin Hood legend and his historic home, Sherwood Forest, are known and loved across the world. 

“With so many versions of Robin shown on TV and cinema screens over the decades, we want everyone to tell us what they think of Robin Hood now.

“Following recent meetings, we know that key partners involved in tourism are also keen to make the most of this global brand and have welcomed this survey.   

“Robin Hood has the potential to be an even bigger asset for us and boost our overall city and county visitor economy, which is already worth more than £2 billion.” 

The survey is open until Friday 7 February 2025 with local residents, visitors to Nottingham or Nottinghamshire from the rest of the UK and around the world encouraged to take part. There is also a dedicated section for the business community to give their feedback, particularly those working in tourism, leisure and hospitality.        

Feedback from the survey will help the county council put an action plan together to set out the best ways the council and partners can use the Robin Hood brand and develop an offer using current resources. 

Those who take part in the survey have the option to enter a prize draw to win a one-night deluxe pod stay for three at Holme Pierrepont Country Park campsite, courtesy of Serco, which manages the park on the county council’s behalf.

Those who want to fill in the survey as both a member of the public and as a local business will be able to do so.

The survey is available here: https://consult.nottinghamshire.gov.uk/economic-development/robin-hood

In December 2024, the county council co-hosted an event in partnership with the Sustainable Travel and Tourism Advanced Research Centre (STTAR Centre) of the University of Nottingham Business School.

The aim was to map what is needed for the creation of an innovative and engaging Robin Hood experience for all and enhance residents' engagement and benefits and ultimately improve visitors' experience in Nottinghamshire.

The event generated invaluable ideas, feedback and comments that informed the new survey and will also be instrumental in the creation of a dynamic and impactful Robin Hood and Sherwood Forest action plan.