Episodes 1-4 in season 1 were terrible. But, it slowly got better after that. The series finale was nicely done - but I would've kept my baby Gisborne alive.
I was glad when the writers finally stopped having Much call Robin 'master' every 5 minutes. That was just annoying beyond compare. Tuck was a good addition in S3, but Kate was not needed (Will and Djaq should've stayed). Her groveling behind Robin made no sense when Much was there willing and eager. Robin didn't always have to get the girl.
In the end the best characters was the Sheriff and Gisborne. Especially the Sheriff - the actor did a splendid job.