Discover the 'myths & legends' of England this summer

To celebrate the release of Ridley Scott’s Robin Hood, VisitEngland have brought together some of England’s most fascinating 'Myths & Legends' in a user-friendly online map, facebook character quiz and downloadable podcast series, all available at enjoyengland.com/mythsandlegends.

This activity comes as part of a partnership with Universal Pictures, VisitBritain and Experience Nottinghamshire.

Director Ridley Scott said: “It was fundamental to the project that this motion picture was filmed in England; it was extremely important to catch the real essence and feeling only British locations in particular could achieve. This new adaptation is a Robin Hood that viewers across the world have never seen before. The only way we could achieve such a successful production was with the authenticity of the locations England and the East Midlands had to offer.”

England is known for its rich history and unique storytelling heritage but sometimes it’s hard to know what once was truth or just a tale from an overactive imagination. Inspired by the world’s most famous outlaw, the Myths & Legends map will lead you through stories of beggars who aren’t what they seem, fairies seeking revenge for broken promises, lost treasure, giants, doomed lovers and heroes in hoods.

This year, when planning their holidays, Brits can find inspiration and be reminded of stories they may have heard as children by discovering some of England’s most fascinating tales on the Myths & Legends map. Facebook fans can get involved by taking the ‘Which Mythical Character Are You’ quiz, while families can download podcasts available online to make car journeys more exciting!

Some of the Myths & Legends being brought to life this summer are:

• Robin Hood – Follow the trail or test your archery skills for a Robin Hood experience of your own.
• The Pendle Witches – Learn more about one of England’s most famous witch trials!
• The Schooner Hotel – One of England’s most haunted. Would you dare to check in for a night?
• Dick Turpin – Visit the pub frequented by the dastardly rogue and raise a glass to the notorious thief
• The Mermaids of Zennor – Take time out at Zennor Cove in Cornwall and listen for the mournful sounds of Matthew Trewallah singing to his mermaid love

“Films, and the stories behind them, provide some of the most potent inspiration for people planning holidays in this country,” said Amanda Smyth, Head of Marketing for VisitEngland.

“With the release of Ridley Scott’s Robin Hood, this is a perfect time to showcase not only Nottinghamshire but the whole of England through the many myths and legends that have been passed down through the ages. As a country, we are blessed with a rich storytelling heritage and many of the places featured in these tales can still be visited today.”

To find out more about Myths & Legends in England, visit: enjoyengland.com/mythsandlegends