Is this Robin Hood’s Silver Arrow? Outlaw’s ’12th century arrowhead found in Sherwood Forest stream’

The legend of Robin Hood is believed to date back to the reign of King John in the 13th century.

He was one of three prominent outlaws, including Fulk Fitzwarin and Eustace the Monk, but while the latter two were clearly identified historical figures, it is unclear who exactly Robin Hood was.

Forests during this time were covered by forest law and were protected as private places for the king, where he could hunt.

Many fugitives used these areas, however, to hide out and both Sherwood and Barnsdale Forest feature heavily in the legends.

Robin Hood was first referred to in the late 14th century and tales throughout the 15th century including such tales as Robin Hood and the Monk, and Robin Hood and Guy of Gisborne.

During this time, there are also accounts of people taking on the name Robin Hood, or Robehod, to imitate the original, which is why there is some confusion over his true identity.

The tales place Robin Hood in the north, but refer to both Barnsdale and Sherwood.

Experts believe the legend may have derived from two separate sources, and could have referred to two separate ‘Robin Hoods’.

An epitaph recorded in 1702 claims Robin Hood was buried in Kirklees Priory, in West Yorkshire, where the legend claims he was killed, supposedly by the Sheriff of Nottingham, and dates to 1247.