@The_Hooded_Man

Visitors to this year’s Gathering of the North are in for a rare treat. Among the warriors, traders and storytellers travelling to the event, one figure stands out for both his energy and his reputation.

The Merry Outlaw of Barnsdale and Sherwood, known to many through his growing audience on TikTok as The Hooded Man and a loyal YouTube Following, will be joining us for a full weekend of meet and greet sessions and appearances in the Tournament of Champions.

With a following built on humour, historical storytelling and a generous dose of outlaw charm, the Hooded Man has become a recognisable personality in the British reenactment, LARP, fantasy and living history scene.

His videos, filmed in the woodlands that inspired generations of myths, draw hundreds of thousands of viewers into a mix of medieval craft, archery, folklore and a touch of well aimed mischief.

But seeing him in person is a different experience altogether. The Hooded Man brings a strong presence to any field he walks across, with gear that reflects deep research and a performance style shaped by community events, festivals, long days in the woods and a love of the Gateway to the North – Sherwood Forest. He has built a reputation for bringing the legendary outlaw spirit into the present day, while keeping it grounded in real history and regional tradition.

Meet and Greet with the Outlaw

Throughout the Gathering, visitors will have the chance to stop by his dedicated meet and greet station. Expect lively conversation, photo opportunities, demonstrations, and the kind of storytelling that does not rely on scripts.

Whether you are arriving as a casual visitor, a long time fan, or a fellow reenactor, the Outlaw is ready to welcome everyone who shares a love for medieval culture and northern heritage.

His sessions are designed to be open and friendly, allowing people of all ages to speak with him about archery, outlaws, folklore, costume making and the many tall tales that surround Barnsdale and Sherwood.

If you have followed his videos, this is your chance to ask questions face to face. If you are new to his work, you will quickly understand why he has become such a popular part of the modern medieval community.

Into the Arena: Tournament of Champions

The Hooded Man will also be stepping into our Tournament of Champions. Known for his archery and for the spirited way he handles friendly competition, he is expected to bring a lively mix of skill and theatre to the field. Whether he leaves the arena with bragging rights or a story about a close call, spectators can count on a memorable performance.

The Tournament has always been one of the highlights of the Gathering, bringing together skilled participants from across the North.

Competitors are already looking forward to meeting him in the arena, and the audience can expect plenty of energy, noise and good humour when he takes his place.

A Welcome Fit for a Legend in the Making

The Gathering of the North celebrates heritage, craftsmanship and the spirit of our region. Welcoming the Merry Outlaw of Barnsdale and Sherwood is a perfect fit for an event that values community as much as tradition.

His appearance brings together the past and the present in a way that feels natural and familiar. With every bowstring he draws, every story he tells and every fan he speaks with, he helps to keep our shared folklore alive for a new generation.

We cannot wait to see him among the tents, the forges, the music and the battles. The North welcomes him, and we look forward to the energy he will bring to this year’s Gathering.