Fantasy in the Greenwood: 8th/9th August 2026
The second weekend of the 40th Robin Hood Festival completely transformed the forest into a world of fantasy in the greenwood.
This specific part of the festival brought the legendary world of J.R.R. Tolkien to life. Although my hands were full running non-stop leathercraft sessions most of the time, it was impossible to miss the fabulous, high-effort costumes walking past my stall. The sheer level of creativity on display across Sherwood Forest was outstanding.
Amidst the bustling crowd, two standout moments completely stole my heart.
The Great Orc “Orkshop” Takeover
My first favourite memory was a visit from a group of Orcs. As scary and terrifying as they looked and sounded at first, their brilliant sense of humour completely won me over.
One of them picked up my price list board and strategically covered the letter “W” with his hand. Suddenly, my leathercraft workshop transformed into an “ORKSHOP” — which was incredibly clever and funny! I am pretty sure they would have sat down to make something right then and there if my tables weren’t completely full. Instead, we snapped a quick photo. My son then quickly stepped in and rubbed off the “W” entirely, so for a brief moment in time, it became an “OKSHOP”.
A Childhood Dream Come True
The second memory was deeply nostalgic and sweet. Growing up in a completely different part of the globe, the stories of Robin Hood and his Merry Men always held a very special place in my heart. As a teenager, when my friends and I exchanged autograph books, I distinctly remember writing that if I could have one wish to travel back in time, I would choose to live alongside Robin Hood and his merry men in Sherwood Forest.
Decades later, in my midlife, that childhood wish came full circle out of nowhere.
There I was, running my own independent business, watching Robin Hood, the Sheriff of Nottingham, Friar Tuck, and Little John give a spectacular live performance just beyond the edges of my medieval canvas tent. It is amazing how a life story churns out, bringing you exactly where you always wanted to be.
Some Photos from the Workshop
Almost everyone had a go at saddle stitching, stamping, decorating, and attaching hardware like snaps and rivets!
