Things to do around Sherwood Forest this Bank Holiday weekend

In today's guest blog, Debbie Hibbert from the Rufford Tourist Information Centre tells us what's on in and around Sherwood Forest this bank holiday.  This weekend, there are plenty of events and activities to keep all the family amused, from Fireman Sam visiting White Post Farm on Saturday, to Open Studios where you can see crafts people demonstrating their art.  And of course, no Bank Holiday would be complete without some medieval merriment in Sherwood Forest. The Open Studios programme runs for six weeks through May and early June and this year there are over 200 artists taking part with many studios opening directly to the public or a group of artists joining together in a temporary workspace. The Sherwood Forest Art and  Craft Centre in Edwinstowe is a supporter of Open Studios and here you will find two artists providing activities over the weekend. Silversmith Clare Hawley will be inviting people to have a go at making a silver ring and John Twiss of Twiss Pens will be demonstrating the art of pen making. Over in the village of Upton there is an Open Studios trail with eight artists at three studios demonstrating painting, ceramics, sculpture and pottery. Light refreshments will be available at the studios but the Clock House Café or The Cross Keys Inn are also close by. In Southwell painter Deborah Sweeney will be painting a still life and also providing teas and cakes. For full details of these and other studios visit the website. Still on the arts theme, on Sunday  you can try your hand at ceramics in Rufford Country Park or join in the Craft Bomb Explosion. There is also an exhibition showcasing art and craft from studios taking part in the Open Studios programme. On Sunday and Monday Sherwood Forest Art & Craft Centre plays host to Robin Hood’s Spring Celebrations. There will be lots of activities for all the family with medieval tales, juggling and drumming workshops, interactive displays and much more. Across the road by the fairground site on the edge of Sherwood Forest, you can see weaponry and archery displays. There will be historical traders and demonstrations of medieval cookery. Both events are free so come along and join in. The village of Wellow is the only village in Nottinghamshire with a permanent 60ft maypole. The village will once again be celebrating the Bank Holiday Monday with the crowning of the May Queen, maypole dancing, live music, stalls and entertainment. Everything starts around midday and hopefully the sun will be shining. Bring the family for what is always a wonderful day. Let’s keep our fingers crossed for good weather so we can get out and about this Bank Holiday Weekend!