Robin Hood. Maid Marian. Little John. Friar Tuck. Alan a Dale. Will Scarlet. All names which have become immortalised not just in English folklore, but hailed in world legend. What is the historical truth behind these enigmatic figures-and what became of them after their celebrated adventures?
In this book, Robin Hood enthusiast Neil Hallam invites you to join him on the trip of a lifetime as he travels around some of the most scenic locations in England searching for the facts behind this famous yet inscrutable outlaw. His travels take him far beyond busy Nottingham and Sherwood Forest to the village of Robin Hood, the bucolic hamlet of Loxley, charming Whitby and the beautiful Robin Hood's Bay, via a plethora of caves, coves, churches, crags and castles just waiting to be discovered along the way.
Drawing on historical research, national folklore and local legend, Neil pieces together a fascinating and entertaining tapestry of swashbuckling adventures, intriguing mysteries and ancient curiosities which will make you want to visit each and every amazing location for yourself.
In my talk, I take you around the route, highlighting some of the must-see Robin Hood locations, and exploring the reasons the Robin hood legends have spread so far and wide.
Views: 61 | Enquiries: 0From Policeman to Author Neil has led an interesting life. An accomplished mountaineer and adventure cyclist, he has travelled to some of the world’s most fascinating places, including the Himalayas and the Mongolian Steppe.
His Police career, in both uniform and as a detective, took some unusual turns. A specialism in CBRN (Chemical, Biological, Radiological & Nuclear) terrorism, involved him in cases like the Alexander Litvinenko assassination and the Salisbury Novichok poisonings. Neil also spent five years leading an anti-corruption team (the real Line of Duty). Already a qualified photo-journalist, Neil’s police and travel experiences led to writing his series of crime thrillers. The subject matter, all adapted from real-world experience, cover diverse subjects, including; people trafficking, nuclear terrorism and the smuggling of rare animals.
Neil’s policing experience, and his ability to turn it into drama, led to commissions as a Police Advisor on TV shows, including Coronation Street and Waterloo Road. His enquiring mind also turned itself to historical research, and a historical novel, based around the iron and coal industries of the Derbyshire village he calls home.
After retirement, the enjoyment for travel, and interest in history led to writing guidebooks. The Robin Hood 500 (500RH) is a 500 mile journey from Nottingham, to Robin Hood’s Bay and back, via Yorkshire and Derbyshire’s Peak District. Neil’s talk From Policeman to Crime Writer weaves his real-life experiences through the creation of his 10 books. Explaining the creative process, and where fact meets fiction.
Neil is a confident speaker. His talks can be adapted to suit any audience. They can also be more narrowly focussed on specific areas of his experience.
Should your group be let down at short notice, it is always worth contacting Neil about availability. The fast-changing nature of police work made Neil very adaptable.
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