ESCAPE TO THE FOREST

Sarah Gallivan discovers the great outdoors at Nottinghamshire’s Sherwood Hideaway

Experience a luxury escape in the heart of Sherwood Forest at The Sherwood Hideaway at Thorseby. Surrounded by woodland, this selection of luxury lodges and log cabins is an oasis of calm. I stayed with my husband, our two children and dog and it was the perfect opportunity to reconnect after leaving the hustle and bustle of daily life behind us – upon arrival I felt instantly relaxed.

Choose to explore and enjoy the range of activities on offer or simply kick back and relax, the choice is yours.

CHOOSE YOUR HIDEAWAY With a choice of traditional, rustic and woodland lodges, one, two or three bedrooms and the option of taking your furry friend along to a pet-friendly lodge, there’s something for everyone.

We stayed in a Rustic Pet-Friendly lodge and it was gorgeous. Indoors it boasted stylish interiors, modern fixtures and fittings and a cosy log-burner effect fire. We were greeted with a much-welcomed bottle of wine, locally produced fine chocolates and a selection of treats for the pooch – even he didn’t miss out! Outdoors, there’s the added bonus of a private hot tub, barbeque area and decking area looking out into the forest and the lodges are well laid out allowing for ample external space and privacy.

DISCOVER AND EXPLORE Cycling – Take your bikes to explore more of the Thorseby Estate, Sherwood Forest and surrounding areas. Trails are well marked out along road and dirt tracks and they suit all abilities. What’s more, each lodge has its own cycle rack so your bikes can be easily stored.

Walking – We took a walk through the estate to Thorseby Hall, the Grade I listed 19th-century country house. The tree-lined paths were easy to follow, and my son and daughter loved delving deep into the woods. The walk took 45 minutes at a steady pace and the coffee and cake in the Thorseby Courtyard, children’s woodland play area and military museum was well worth the stroll. Fishing – If fishing’s your thing, Sherwood Hideaway guests have access to a private members-only fly-fishing lake, approximately 1 mile from the retreat.

Falconry – Walk through the woods with the birds of prey or have them visiting the lodge on your own decking area, book a birthday package or take part in a Falconry Day where you’ll learn how to fly and handle hawks, falcons, owls and eagles, as they glide through the treetops.

Relaxing – Thorsby Hall Spa is on your doorstep. With its fully equipped gym, indoor pool with jacuzzi, sauna, steam room and range of innovative treatments, why not go and indulge?

TIE THE KNOT You can reserve these luxury lodges as accommodation for nuptials at nearby venues or if you’d love a woodland wedding, The Sherwood Hideaway can provide a marquee in which to host your day.