Legendary 'Robin Hood' Oak Tree, Over a Thousand Years Old, Passes Away

WHO:

ABC7 Los Angeles - The Major Oak, an ancient oak tree linked to the "Robin Hood" legend, has died.

ABC News - Hollie Drake, senior site manager at RSPB Sherwood Forest, provided a statement regarding the tree's legacy.

WHAT:

ABC7 Los Angeles - The Major Oak was believed to be 1,200 years old.

ABC7 Los Angeles - The tree had an enormous trunk, approximately 36 feet in circumference.

ABC7 Los Angeles - The Major Oak failed to produce any leaves this spring.

ABC7 Los Angeles - The organization stated that the oak will remain standing in its place in the park.

ABC7 Los Angeles - Acorns and cuttings from the tree have already been grown into saplings.

WHERE:

ABC7 Los Angeles - The Major Oak was located in Sherwood Forest, the iconic setting of the "Robin Hood" legend.

WHY:

ABC7 Los Angeles - The tree had been in "visible decline" for several years.

ABC7 Los Angeles - Factors cited for the tree's demise included poor soil, a weakened root system, and preservation efforts that prevented natural aging.

ABC7 Los Angeles - The organization also cited the effects of climate change, recent heat waves, and drought.

HOW:

ABC7 Los Angeles - The organization mentioned "well-intentioned efforts to preserve the tree's impressive shape," including metal bracing and coverings.

(UPDATED June 19, 2026 23:19 UTC)

The Major Oak, an ancient tree linked to the "Robin Hood" legend and believed to be around 1,200 years old, has died in Sherwood Forest. Hollie Drake, senior site manager at RSPB Sherwood Forest, noted that the tree had been in visible decline for several years due to factors like poor soil, a weakened root system, and the impacts of climate change. While the Major Oak will remain standing in its place, acorns and cuttings from the tree have already been grown into saplings, ensuring its legacy continues.