Sherwood Pines, Mansfield

[Ck1005]

Hi,

I was wondering if anyone had any local knowledge of the Sherwood Pines, Mansfield (or anyone whose visited). Ive tried to find an answer online but can't seem to work it out so thought I'd ask on here to see if anyone knew.

So, obviously it's a big forest area. On the website it shows 3 walking routes, I was wondering are these the only routes that are possible to walk or are these just 'suggested' routes but there are lots of possible paths? Basically I'm going to the area and wanted to visit but appreciate its peak time and will be busy, I was wondering if I could go for a walk away from it all or if you are confined to these 3 routes? It seems like a really big forest so I was surprised just 3 walks are mentioned (I am aware there are other activities in the forest).

Also, I was reading a few reviews on trip advisor and people have been saying about lots of bikes on the paths (I am aware there are bike routes also). I'm not bothered about cyclist, I only ask as wondering if my dog would be better kept on a lead if bikes were whizzing around.

Does anyone have any experience of the area at all? And basically could I lose myself for a few hours walking without loads of people or would it not be an appropriate place if I was trying to 'lose the crowd' as such.

Thanks for any help / advice / input!

There are signposted walking routes, and signposted cycling routes and many other unsigned trails that you are free to wander on. Just stay off the cycling routes or you run the risk of being mown down by a mountain biker. It's also very close to Sherwood Forest and Clumber Park (NT estate) for more walking.

If you get away from the visitor centre you could probably loose yourself for a few hours , although this might be trickier in the school holidays.

Clumber Park is far nicer in my opinion, and more varied walks. I say that as a Mountain Biker who loves the trails at Sherwood and also rides and walks at Clumber. At Clumber you get more varied scenery on your walk, beautiful lakes, water, parkland, farmland, woodland and generally better kept. Sherwood Pines is a bit rough round the edges once you get off the main paths, we often see fly tipping/rubbish dumped, people riding motorbikes on trails etc.

I agree with @PlugUgly1980 .
Also a mountain biker.