Alnwick Castle, England

23 April 2015

Alnwick Castle, England

The first and second episode of ROBIN OF SHERWOOD (American title: Robin Hood) are partially set in the castle of Notthingham (see also: Bamburgh Castle) where Robin (Michael Praed) and his friends are imprisoned, manage to escape but later return, in disguise, to participate in an archery contest.

Robin of Sherwood, season 1, episode 2, 0:04:29

These episodes were first broadcasted on 28 April 1984 as a two hour special. Filming was done all over England in the early ’80s. The exterior of Alnwick Castle in Northumberland was chosen as the castle of Nottingham. Although the history of this landmark goes back to the eleventh century, the current construction was mainly built in the fourteenth century. It is still home of the Duke of Northumberland and his family. Eight months of the year, from March until October, it is open to visitors. See the website of Alnwick Castle for details.

The Inner and Outer Bailey of the castle can easily be recognized. In the first episode, ‘Robin Hood and the sorcerer - part 1’, Robin Hood and his merry men are being captured and locked away in a dungeon. They find a way out and enter the courtyard where a market is being held. Although their escape is being discovered quicky, they manage to flee to Sherwood Forest.

Robin of Sherwood, season 1, episode 1, 0:11:58

Alnwick Castle, 29 July 2011

Robin of Sherwood, season 1, episode 1, 0:25:04

Alnwick Castle, 29 July 2011

In an attempt to capture Robin Hood again, the sheriff of Nottingham Robert de Rainault (Nickolas Grace) organizes an archery contest in the second episode, ‘Robin Hood and the sorcerer - part 2’. The winner will receive the Silver Arrow, a precious and ancient trophy. Robin wins the tournament, dressed as an old man. When he receives his price, his hands betray his real age and identity. With the help of his men he escapes the castle a second time. The scenes of the contest were all filmed at the Outer Bailey. Note in the first screenshot that two lights have been camouflaged with hay (for the horses?).

Robin of Sherwood, season 1, episode 2, 0:07:53

Alnwick Castle, 29 July 2011

Robin of Sherwood, season 1, episode 2, 0:08:16

Alnwick Castle, 29 July 2011

Robin of Sherwood, season 1, episode 2, 0:12:52

Alnwick Castle, 29 July 2011

Robin of Sherwood, season 1, episode 2, 0:13:38

Alnwick Castle, 29 July 2011

Robin of Sherwood, season 1, episode 2, 0:17:45

Alnwick Castle, 29 July 2011

Robin of Sherwood, season 1, episode 2, 0:17:48

Alnwick Castle, 29 July 2011

Robin of Sherwood, season 1, episode 2, 0:21:19

Alnwick Castle, 29 July 2011

In episode 5, ‘Alan a Dale’, another market is being held at the castle of Nottingham. These scenes were probably filmed at the same time as the escape from the dungeon in episode 1. The castle is hardly visible and can only be seen in the background during a few brief moments.

Robin of Sherwood, season 1, episode 5, 0:38:17

Alnwick Castle, 29 July 2011

Alnwick Castle can be glimpsed briefly in the third episode, ‘The witch of Elsdon’, when Sir Guy of Gisburne (Robbert Addie) and his soldiers try to find Robin and his friends. They leave the castle through the Lion Arch.