Major oak

Major Oak in Sherwood Forest was a world-famous English oak (Quercus robur) and one of Britain’s most celebrated ancient trees. Estimated to be 800 to 1,000 years old, it was confirmed dead in 2026 after failing to come into leaf that spring. At its peak it had a girth of 10m, a canopy reaching 28m in height and was believed to weigh a whopping 23 tonnes, making it Britain’s second largest oak after Majesty, a pedunculate oak in Fredville Park, Nonington, Kent.

The origins of Major Oak’s distinctively strange shape are unknown. It may be a fusion of multiple saplings or a result of pollarding. Its mighty girth is likely due to growing in a clearing without competition; growth would have been slow, however, due to acidic, low-quality soil.

This iconic tree was fenced off in the 1970s due to damage from soil compaction caused by visitors. Bough supports were installed soon after and superseded by metal ones in the 2000s.

Major Oak’s history is inextricably linked to the legend of Robin Hood while in reality it is a popular attraction that remains home to hundreds of diverse species of wildlife. Its name honours Major Hayman Rooke (1723-1806), a soldier, antiquarian and tree enthusiast whose books included one about local oaks.

Image by Karin R (TripAdvisor)

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