Two of the play areas at Sherwood Pines are being removed and will be replaced by an attraction that will focus on inclusivity and accessibility.

The new play area, which should open early next year, will be themed around King John’s Palace, a nearby residence used by several Kings, including Henry II, Richard I, and Edward I.

Forest centre manager for Sherwood Pines Neil Barnes said: “We know that some fantastic memories have been made in the Mushroom Village and Robin Hood’s Hideout play area. They have both been firm favourites at Sherwood Pines for many years.

“But like any timber structure out in the elements they don’t last forever. However, we are keen to reassure people that natural play amongst the trees is really important to us, so we are excited about this new addition to Sherwood Pines.”

Forestry England said the new play area, being designed and built by Earth Wrights, would have a main castle-themed structure, including a gentle ramp up to the top to allow all children to access the tower.

Connecting two towers will be a wobbly, clatter bridge, wide enough for wheelchairs. One of the towers includes a climbing tree element to allow those wanting a more challenging route to clamber up the outside.

A secret den, tunnel, kitchen, and dungeon are planned at ground level, with tactile and high-contrast elements to help give them sensory detail for those with reduced vision. There will also be a tube slide, balance trail, and trebuchet swing.

The programme manager for Forestry England’s central district, Sarah Walker, said: “Getting out into nature is really beneficial for families, and this new play area will allow lots of children, big and small, and with a variety of different requirements, to all play together.

“Inspired by the history of the area, and the legend of Robin Hood, we’re looking to provide just enough of the scene to ignite children’s imaginations. And the designs created by Earth Wrights will definitely help families have their own Sherwood adventure while connecting with the natural world.”