Bamburgh Castle, England

     
The legend of Robin Hood has been adapted for film and television countless times. The television series ROBIN OF SHERWOOD (American title: Robin Hood) from the mid-80’s stands out for the mysterious and magical elements in the story and the atmospheric music by Clannad.

Robin of Sherwood, season 1, episode 1.2, 0:42:22

The first episode, ‘Robin Hood and the sorcerer’, was broadcasted on 28 April 1984 by ITV. In reruns this episode is often shown in two parts because it lasts 100 minutes. The series was largely filmed on location in England, the end credits of each episode lists where shooting took place. Bamburgh Castle was used for its interior as well as the exterior, though for different places in the story. The building is located on the coast in Northumberland, in the northern part of England and has had a turbulent history that dates back to the fifth century.

The castle was destroyed and rebuilt more than once. The current building was bought and restored in 1894 by the industrialist William Armstrong. It is still being owned by the Armstrong family and is open to the public, more information on Bamburgh Castle.

In the first episode Robin Hood (Michael Praed) and his friends escape from the castle of Nottingham. This scene was filmed in one of the rooms that can be visited and is located inside The Keep. This massive square tower dates from the twelfth century.

Robin of Sherwood, season 1, episode 1.1, 0:22:47

Bamburgh Castle, 30 July 2011

Robin of Sherwood, season 1, episode 1.1, 0:23:50

Bamburgh Castle, 30 July 2011

The Keep is the oldest part of the castle and can be seen in the second part of the first episode as the residence of the evil baron Simon de Belleme (Anthony Valentine). Robin and his followers battle the army of Sir Guy of Gisburne (Robert Addie) to free Lady Marion (Judi Trott).

Robin of Sherwood, season 1, episode 1.2, 0:32:54

Bamburgh Castle, 30 July 2011

Robin of Sherwood, season 1, episode 1.2, 0:41:54

Bamburgh Castle, 30 July 2011

Robin of Sherwood, season 1, episode 1.2, 0:43:15

Bamburgh Castle, 30 July 2011

An extended overview of all locations from this series can be found on Robin of Sherwood.

Screenshots © Goldcrest Films International/Harlech Television