Robin of Loxley

RECLAIMING ROBIN HOOD

Robin Hood is firmly embedded in our culture as one of the world’s most well-known outlaws. Stretching back some 600 years, medieval ballads make mention of the infamous archer and the folklore no doubt reaches even further. Naturally, like most storytelling, however, the tales have evolved. Some of them have taken quite a departure from the earliest known documents.

Robin Hood in the earliest ballads (from manuscripts dating back to around the mid 15th century) may have been fair-minded but he didn’t rob from the rich to give to the poor; nor did he meet Maid Marian. He worshipped his beloved Virgin Mary and he frequented the forests and woodlands of Barnsdale and South Yorkshire.

Sensoria, along with our merry partners, have set out on the trail of Robin Hood, often referred to as Robin of Loxley.

The Reclaiming Robin Hood project has, in the last few years, celebrated the roots of South Yorkshire’s outlaw via:

  • a film screening in Loxley Valley woodland (at Stoneface Creative)
  • a booklet including articles, extracts and commissioned illustrations
  • an app of the locations relating to the Robin Hood legend.


The group have now compiled a new booklet Reclaiming Robin Hood: Folklore & South Yorkshire’s Infamous Outlaw, accompanying the activities and providing a few perspectives on the legend and how it evolved.

We have also commissioned 4 local artists to provide illustrations and images to accompany the text. These include James Green, Lisa O’Hara, Tom J Newell and Anja Uhren.

The booklet is on sale in our shop for £8.99 (+ P&P).


Outlaw’s Picnic – Thursday 6 June, 11am – 4pm

Loxley Primary School Grounds, S6 6SG

A family-friendly day of activities including acoustic music, book and art stall, games, talks, food & drink.

Music acts include Nat Johnson, Nancy Kerr, Grinnigogs and Little Robots.

FREE but ticketed – please book your tickets HERE.


The project is ongoing and future plans include silver arrow plaques at some of the locations mentioned plus an Outlaw’s Picnic. All of the activities will keep alive the South Yorkshire connections with our altruistic outlaw.

Partners include The Centre for Contemporary Legend at Sheffield Hallam University and Loxley Primary School.

Supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, J. G. Graves Trust and Arts Council England.

Arts Council England
British Council
PRS Foundation
Key Fund
Sheffield Hallam University