I
know that this cache name sounds like a particularly naff science
fiction or horror film or B-movie...but read on.
As
well as this area of Sherwood Forest (Birklands: named after the
Birch trees still seen in numbers around here) being the
traditional base for Robin Hood and his Merry Men, it has been a
genuinely historic area for many centuries. One of the most
interesting places in Birklands is "Thynghowe"; a name
possibly derived from the Norse "Thing" or Governing Assembly. At
an assembly the free people of the area would make decisions and
resolve disputes. These structures survived into medieval times in
some areas of northern Europe and the governments of Iceland and
Isle of Man still use names derived from Thing ("Tynwald" for
instance).
The
cache is situated near Thynghowe itself. Although there's not a lot
to see by leaving the track, it's a lovely peaceful spot deep in
the forest. Points of interest along the way are indicated by
lettered
posts; download the trail guide
leaflet before you set out. If you approach from the Warsop
Windmill (southern) end you'll see points A to K before reaching
the cache site. The other approach from the north (Gleadthorpe) is
slightly shorter.
The
track in both directions has an excellent surface for the most
part, and route finding is easy. In fact, the route from the north
(Hanger Hill Drive) is wheelchair-friendly, and buggies wouldn't be
a problem.
The
cache is to be found at the side of The Robin Hood Way; a 105-mile
walking trail from Nottingham Castle to Edwinstowe Church. You'll
not need to step off the trail for more than about ten paces, and I
designed this cache with a good walk in mind rather than a tricky
hide so you should find it quite easily. It's a smallish box
reinforced with tape, and contents include a number of swaps.
Take note of the letter written inside the lid of the
container!
Many thanks to the Forestry Commission for kindly granting
permission.
Notes from the Forestry Commission.
This is a working wood, and you may come across work sites, workers
and vehicles during your visit. Please avoid all working areas and
obey any safety signs and instructions. You must not enter any
areas where access has been restricted.
The wood and the roads and tracks are used for a lot of different
activities. You may meet other people during your visit - please be
on the look out for them, as they may be unaware that you are
there. Please also respect their rights to enjoy their
recreation.
Conditions can change very rapidly in forests and woodlands. Please
make sure that you are properly prepared for your visit and please
take care for your own safety.
In the interests of safety the Forestry Commission strongly
recommends that you carry a mobile phone and first aid kit and
leave details of the mobile number, route and expected return time
with a friend, relative or responsible person.