A series of six audio-guided walks are being released, inviting people to make the most of Robin Hood Country.

Sherwood Voices has been written and directed by Excavate’s Andy Barrett. Episodes feature personal stories, experiences, and points of view from people who live in the Sherwood Forest area.

The aim is to inspire people to visit and explore the heart of Nottinghamshire.

The walks will be available to download and stream free, with a small number of MP3 players and headsets available at each location for members of the public to access.

A spokesman said: “The towns and villages of the Sherwood Forest region are full of diverse wildlife, important habitats, fascinating people, and a rich heritage of stories.

“From Bestwood to Ollerton, Edwinstowe to Newstead, the area has a distinctive landscape, character, and local legends, which are recognised and valued by local people as well as visitors from around the world.”

The walks have been created through hours of conversation with people from across the area. Alongside storytellers, listeners will hear from shepherds, anglers, undertakers, park rangers, vicars, schoolchildren, and many others.

The walks cover Bestwood, Calverton, Clipstone, Edwinstowe, Newstead, and Ollerton.

Sherwood Voices is led by Excavate and supported by Inspire, Miner2Major, The National Lottery Heritage Fund, and Arts Council England.

Andy Barrett, director of Excavate, said; “The recent experience of lockdown has made us all realise the importance of our local landscape as a place to walk and explore.

“These audio tours build on this as well as exploring what has been, over the past 30 years or so, a period of profound change for the area.

“Sherwood Voices digs into this change; exploring the past and present culture of the area, and in doing so reveals how we all make sense of the places in which we live.”

Steve Little, scheme manager of Miner2Major, added: “Sherwood Forest is steeped in history with many tales to tell. Thanks to National Lottery players, Sherwood Voices brings to life local stories and connections to this wonderful area, told by people who live here.”

Peter Gaw, Inspire chief executive, said; “Sherwood Voices is an exciting storytelling project that invites listeners to discover the rich heritage of Sherwood Forest through the unique stories and perspectives of the people that live there.

“Whether it’s rediscovering one’s own backyard or uncovering new sights, this project promises to inspire exploration.

“At Inspire Libraries, we are proud to support this project, as we believe that heritage plays an essential role in learning and education.”

The full audio walks are available to download and stream free from 28th January on the Inspire website.

You can access the Sherwood Voices booklet online or pick up a copy at RSPB Sherwood Forest Visitor Centre, Edwinstowe; Dynamo Café, Bestwood; Calverton Library; Clipstone Library; Lifespring Church, Ollerton; the Welfare Community Centre, Newstead; and Nottingham Tourism and Travel Centre, Nottingham.

Call Ask Inspire for guidance about accessing maps and mp3 players on 01623 677200.