WELCOME TO EPPING FOREST
Epping Forest is one of Essex’s greatest landmarks, with roots stretching back thousands of years. Covering over 6,000 acres, it’s far more than just woodland – it’s a living record of how people and nature have shaped each other through the centuries. Once part of the royal hunting grounds, it became a landscape where kings, commoners, and communities all played their part.
In medieval times, Epping Forest was prized by royalty as a hunting ground. Protected under strict forest law, its deer and ancient trees were safeguarded for the king’s use. But the local people also had rights here, relying on the forest for grazing animals, collecting firewood, and foraging for food – traditions known as “commoning.” These customs were handed down through generations and still echo in how the forest is used today.
By the 19th century, the forest faced a threat from enclosure and development. As landowners tried to fence off parts of it, the future of Epping Forest hung in the balance. Local campaigners fought to protect it, and their determination led to the Epping Forest Act of 1878, which placed the land under protection. It was a landmark victory, ensuring that the forest would be kept “for the recreation and enjoyment of the people” forever.
Today, Epping Forest is managed by the City of London Corporation and attracts millions of visitors every year. With its ancient trees, meadows, and lakes, it’s a sanctuary for wildlife and a playground for people. Walkers, cyclists, horse riders, and nature lovers all share its paths, enjoying a landscape steeped in history. Every tree and trail carries a story, making Epping Forest not just a green space, but a symbol of heritage, resilience, and community spirit.
KEY LINKS FOR EPPING FOREST
EDUCATION
NEW CITY COLLEGe - EPPING FOREST CAMPUS
NEW CITY COLLEGe - EPPING FOREST CAMPUS
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EPPING ST JOHNS
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NEW CITY COLLEGe - EPPING FOREST CAMPUS
Local Information - Parks
Epping Forest
Connaught Water
Epping Forest
Epping Forest district is blessed with a wide mix of parks and green spaces that add colour and life to the community. They’re not just patches of grass — they’re where families gather, friends meet, children play, and people of all ages find space to breathe. From the bustling town centres to the quieter corners of the district, these parks are a vital part of everyday life.
Well-loved spots like Roding Valley Recreation Ground in Loughton and Stonards Hill in Epping are at the heart of local activity. They offer wide open areas for dog walks, casual football matches, running, and weekend picnics. Equipped with children’s playgrounds, sports pitches, and plenty of seating, they’re ideal for everything from family outings to community events. These are the kinds of places where generations grow up making memories.
For a more scenic escape, Knighton Wood and Highams Park Lake provide a touch of wilderness right on the doorstep. With winding woodland paths, tranquil lakeside views, and an abundance of wildlife, they’re perfect for walkers, joggers, and anyone in search of a quiet moment away from the rush of daily life. These smaller green spaces also act as gateways into the wider Epping Forest itself, making it easy to wander further afield.
Many of the district’s parks also play host to community events and seasonal activities, from summer fairs to outdoor performances. They’re designed to be flexible spaces — one weekend a quiet place to read a book, the next a buzzing hub of local celebration. This versatility is part of what makes them so special to residents and visitors alike.
Ultimately, the parks of Epping Forest aren’t just about open land; they’re about community, health, and connection. They provide safe and welcoming environments for children to play, opportunities for exercise and relaxation, and a green backdrop to everyday life. Together, they help shape the character of the district, offering a reminder of how important nature and open spaces are to our wellbeing.
High Beach
Connaught Water
Epping Forest
High Beech is one of the most distinctive and much-loved areas of Epping Forest, a place where history, scenery, and community come together. Sitting right in the heart of the forest, it’s often the starting point for walkers, cyclists, and horse riders heading out to explore the ancient woodland. With its open glades, historic landmarks, and welcoming pubs and cafés, it has long been a focal point for visitors.
The name High Beech comes from the beech trees that once dominated the area, though today it’s home to a rich mix of woodland and open space. It’s been a popular meeting spot for centuries, not least because of its elevated position and sweeping views across the forest. Historically, it was also the site of one of the first forest conservation campaigns, with locals rallying to protect this treasured landscape in the 19th century.
For visitors, High Beech offers plenty to see and do. The High Beech Visitor Centre, run by the City of London, provides information on walking trails, wildlife, and the forest’s history, making it a great place to get your bearings before heading deeper into the woods. Nearby, you’ll also find the Conservators’ offices, which manage and care for the forest on behalf of the public.
It’s not just about the trees and trails either — High Beech has long been known for its social side. Traditional pubs like The King’s Oak and The Owl have been welcoming walkers, cyclists, and bikers for generations, turning the area into a lively gathering point at weekends. The mix of fresh air, community, and a good pint or cup of tea makes High Beech a true Essex favourite.
What really makes High Beech special is the balance it strikes between nature and people. It’s a gateway to adventure for some, a place of peace and reflection for others, and a hub of local life at the same time. Whether you’re coming for a hike, a Sunday roast, or simply to take in the views, High Beech remains one of the most iconic and enduring parts of Epping Forest.
Connaught Water
Connaught Water
Connaught Water
Connaught Water is one of the most picturesque spots in Epping Forest, a large lake surrounded by woodland that attracts walkers, families, and nature lovers all year round. Named after the Duke of Connaught, who was a Ranger of the Forest in the 19th century, the lake has become one of the forest’s most visited and best-loved locations. With its calm waters and scenic paths, it offers a peaceful escape right on the edge of London and Essex.
The lake itself is man-made, created in the 1880s, but it feels like it’s always been part of the landscape. Over the years, it’s developed into a thriving habitat for wildlife, home to ducks, swans, geese, and even kingfishers if you’re lucky enough to spot them. Families often visit to feed the birds or enjoy a gentle stroll around the circular walking route that hugs the shoreline.
Connaught Water is especially popular with walkers and dog owners, as it links into a wider network of trails that lead deeper into the forest. The easy, flat path around the lake makes it accessible for prams and wheelchairs too, meaning it’s a spot everyone can enjoy. Benches dotted along the route provide the perfect place to stop, take in the views, and watch the wildlife.
It’s not just about the scenery though — Connaught Water has long been a favourite for photography, painting, and simply unwinding away from the busyness of town life. The reflections of the trees in the still water create a picture-postcard setting in every season, from spring blossom to autumn colour and even crisp winter mornings.
Above all, Connaught Water captures the very essence of Epping Forest: a place where history, nature, and community come together. Whether you’re here for a short walk, a longer adventure into the woods, or simply to sit quietly and enjoy the peace, it’s a spot that draws people back time and again. It’s little wonder it remains one of the forest’s most cherished places.
Local Information - Walks
Epping Forest Centenary Walk
Epping Forest Centenary Walk
Epping Forest Centenary Walk
The Centenary Walk is one of the most iconic ways to explore Epping Forest, stretching roughly 15 miles from Manor Park in East London all the way up to Epping in Essex. It was first created in 1978 to mark the 100th anniversary of the Epping Forest Act, the landmark piece of legislation that protected the forest for the public to enjoy forever. Today, it remains a popular long-distance route for walkers wanting to experience the very best of this historic landscape.
The trail winds its way through the length of the forest, linking up woodlands, glades, ponds, and open spaces along the way. Starting at Manor Park in the south, the walk takes you past many of the forest’s most famous sights — from Wanstead Flats and Connaught Water, to High Beech, Queen Elizabeth’s Hunting Lodge, and beyond. It’s a living showcase of the forest’s variety, with no two stretches looking quite the same.
For many walkers, the Centenary Walk is an adventure that can be done in a single day, with good stamina and an early start, but it’s equally enjoyable broken into smaller sections. Each part of the route offers its own highlights, and there are plenty of spots to pause for refreshments in nearby villages or at historic forest pubs along the way.
As well as being a physical journey, the walk is also steeped in history. Following the route gives you a sense of how important the 1878 Act was in saving the forest from being swallowed up by development. Walking it today is a reminder that the spaces we enjoy are here because of the efforts of campaigners who fought to keep them open and free.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker looking for a day-long challenge, or a casual walker dipping into a section or two, the Centenary Walk is the ultimate way to experience the length and spirit of Epping Forest. It’s not just a route on a map — it’s a celebration of the forest’s past, present, and future.
The Oak Trail
Epping Forest Centenary Walk
Epping Forest Centenary Walk
The Oak Trail is one of Epping Forest’s best-loved circular walks, offering around 6.6 miles (10.6 km) of beautiful woodland, open countryside, and historic sights. Starting and finishing at Theydon Bois Underground Station, it’s a favourite with both locals and visitors looking for a walk that combines nature, history, and a bit of adventure — all without straying too far from the city.
The route takes in some of the most scenic and varied parts of the forest. You’ll pass through shady ancient woodland, across rolling farmland, and past open glades that change dramatically with the seasons. The walk is particularly stunning in autumn when the forest is ablaze with colour, but it offers something special all year round.
Along the way, the Oak Trail also brings you to one of Epping Forest’s most unique sights: Ambresbury Banks, an ancient Iron Age hill fort believed to date back over 2,000 years. It’s a reminder that people have lived, worked, and defended this land long before the forest became the public space we know today. Standing on the banks gives a real sense of walking through living history.
The trail is well waymarked, making it easy to follow, and there are plenty of spots to stop for a picnic or simply take in the views. Being a circular walk, it’s ideal for a half-day trip, and with Theydon Bois station nearby, it’s easily accessible by public transport — perfect for walkers heading out from London.
What makes the Oak Trail so special is its balance of nature and heritage. In just a few hours, you can experience centuries of history, the tranquillity of ancient woodland, and the simple joy of being surrounded by nature. It’s a walk that showcases exactly why Epping Forest remains such an important and cherished green space.
The Holly Trail
Epping Forest Centenary Walk
The Holly Trail
The Holly Trail is a gentle but rewarding circular walk that shows off some of the quieter, more peaceful corners of Epping Forest. At just under 3 miles long, it’s shorter than the Oak Trail, making it a great option for families, casual walkers, or anyone looking to enjoy the forest without taking on a full day’s hike. The trail gets its name from the abundance of holly trees you’ll encounter along the way, giving it a character all of its own.
Starting from Chingford, the route meanders through stretches of ancient woodland where oak, hornbeam, and of course holly grow thickly together. The dense holly bushes provide shelter for birds and wildlife, and in winter, their glossy green leaves and bright red berries bring a splash of colour to the forest floor. It’s a trail that really changes with the seasons, but it always feels atmospheric.
The Holly Trail also links up with some of the forest’s most historic sites. Depending on which variation of the loop you follow, you can easily include a stop at Queen Elizabeth’s Hunting Lodge, a 16th-century timber-framed building that offers a fascinating glimpse into Tudor history. It’s a reminder of the forest’s long connection with royalty and hunting traditions.
The walk is well signposted and not too demanding, with gentle paths suitable for most walkers. Its shorter length means it’s perfect for a leisurely morning or afternoon trip, and there are plenty of cafés and pubs nearby in Chingford if you fancy rounding it off with a bite to eat or a drink.
What makes the Holly Trail so special is its intimacy. While some of the longer forest walks showcase sweeping views and varied landscapes, the Holly Trail draws you into the detail — the textures of the woodland, the flash of a bird in the trees, the crunch of leaves underfoot. It’s a quieter way to experience Epping Forest, but no less rewarding.
GETTING AROUND THE EPPING AREA
Getting to and around Epping Forest is easier than you might think, with plenty of transport options that make it accessible whether you’re coming from London, Essex, or further afield. The forest stretches for miles, but good connections by road, rail, and bus mean you’re never too far from one of its many entry points.
If you’re travelling by train or Tube, stations like Chingford, Loughton, Theydon Bois, and Epping sit right on the edge of the forest, making them popular starting points for walks and rides. From central London, you can be at the forest in under an hour, stepping straight from the bustle of the city into ancient woodland. It’s one of the reasons Epping Forest has been such a beloved escape for Londoners for generations.
For drivers, there are several car parks dotted around the forest, many managed by the City of London. These give easy access to popular spots like High Beech, Connaught Water, and Queen Elizabeth’s Hunting Lodge. At weekends these can get busy, so it’s worth arriving early if you’re heading to the more popular areas.
Buses also run to many of the towns and villages that border the forest, making it possible to plan a walk that starts and ends in different places without needing a car. For cyclists, there are well-marked paths and bridleways, making the forest a great destination for both casual riders and those looking for a longer adventure on two wheels.
In short, whether you’re on foot, bike, bus, Tube, or car, getting to Epping Forest is straightforward. With so many different access points, it’s one of the easiest green escapes from London and Essex — and once you’re here, the paths and trails will take you as far as you want to go.
Secret Epping Forest
Deep in the forest is the “Lost Pond”, also known as Blackweir Pond near Loughton. Legend has it that it was deliberately drained in the early 1900s because people believed it was bottomless and haunted! Locals told tales of ghostly figures drifting over the water at night, and there were rumours that horses and carts had vanished into its depths. Even now, walkers sometimes stumble across the hollow where it once lay, and the spooky stories still circulate.
Communities around Epping Forest
From Roman Roots to a Market Town with Forest Charm
Epping’s got roots that go way back. The Romans first settled here and knew the place as Eppeg. Its spot on the old road between London and East Anglia made it a handy little hub for trade and travel. You can picture the carts rattling through, carrying goods in and out while the town slowly started to grow.
Through the medieval years, Epping kept on thriving. Sitting on the edge of Epping Forest meant plenty of timber, firewood, and game for the table, so it wasn’t just a market town, it was a place people came to for supplies. When Epping was granted its market charter in the 13th century, it gave the town a real boost — and that market tradition is still alive and well today.
The 19th century brought even bigger changes. The railway arrived in 1865, linking Epping straight to London and opening the door to new trade, commuters, and growth. The Epping to Ongar line, part of the Great Eastern Railway, was a lifeline for locals and businesses, keeping the town buzzing with movement and opportunity.
For years, the Epping Ongar Railway carried both passengers and goods, becoming a proper backbone of the town. Although it closed in 1994, that wasn’t the end of the story. Volunteers rolled up their sleeves, restored it, and turned it into a heritage line — and today it’s a brilliant way for visitors to step back in time and get a feel for how the railway shaped the area.
These days, Epping balances the old with the new. It’s still a lively market town, with modern shops and transport links rubbing shoulders with history and countryside charm. The Epping Ongar Railway stands proud as a reminder of the town’s resilience and community spirit, while the surrounding forest and heritage keep Epping firmly on the map as one of Essex’s most treasured spots.
From Forest Village to Thriving Suburb on London’s Doorstep
Loughton’s history stretches back a long way — people were living here in ancient times, as shown by Iron Age and Roman bits and pieces dug up in the area. But the first real mention of Loughton as a place came in the Domesday Book of 1086, where it was recorded as a small rural settlement surrounded by thick woodland.
In the medieval years, Loughton was very much a forest village, sitting on the edge of Epping Forest. Life here was simple and tough, with farming, grazing, and forestry keeping the locals going. The forest was a lifeline, providing timber, fuel, and food, and it shaped the rhythm of daily life for centuries.
Everything began to change in the 19th century. The Industrial Revolution was spreading, London was expanding, and in 1856 the railway reached Loughton. This connection to the capital transformed the place almost overnight, turning what was once a quiet country village into a commuter hotspot. People could now live in Loughton and work in London, and the town grew quickly as a result.
The 20th century saw even more expansion, with new housing estates and modern amenities built to meet the needs of a fast-growing population. Suburban life took root here, and Loughton evolved from a small village into a lively town, all while keeping its links to the surrounding forest.
Today, Loughton is a thriving suburb, balancing modern living with a proud sense of history. It’s got a busy high street, great transport links, and, of course, Epping Forest right on its doorstep for walking, cycling, and fresh air. Landmarks like St John the Baptist Church and the town’s historic buildings stand as reminders of its past, giving Loughton a strong sense of identity while still moving with the times.
Chingford - Tudor History and Forest Living on London’s Edge
Chingford sits on the northeastern edge of London, tucked neatly between the River Lea to the west and Epping Forest to the east. Once a rural patch known for farmland and forest, it has grown into a bustling suburban community with everything from Victorian terraces to modern estates. Despite all the development, it still carries that special mix of city convenience and countryside calm.
One of the area’s real showpieces is Queen Elizabeth’s Hunting Lodge, built in Tudor times for King Henry VIII. Back then, the forest was his royal hunting ground, and this timber-framed lodge gave him the perfect spot to watch the chase. Today it’s a museum, open to the public, and it gives a fascinating glimpse into Chingford’s past as a playground for kings and queens.
Chingford is still defined by its green spaces. Parts of Epping Forest sweep right through the area, offering endless opportunities for walking, cycling, horse riding, and simply soaking up the peace and quiet. Families and nature-lovers flock here to escape the rush of the city without ever straying too far from home.
The town itself is well stocked with shops, cafés, and restaurants, keeping everyday life convenient for locals. With regular trains and bus routes connecting Chingford to central London, it’s a top choice for commuters who want easy access to the city but a quieter place to come back to at the end of the day.
All in all, Chingford offers the best of both worlds — suburban living with history at its heart, and one of the most famous forests in the country right on its doorstep. It’s this balance of heritage, greenery, and modern convenience that makes it such an attractive spot for both residents and visitors alike.
Waltham Abbey – A King’s Legacy and a Town Steeped in History
Waltham Abbey is a town that wears its history proudly. At its heart stands the magnificent Waltham Abbey Church, founded in the 12th century by King Harold II himself. The church is a masterpiece, with its solid Norman nave and later Gothic flourishes, and it’s famously linked to the story of 1066 — said to be the final resting place of King Harold after his defeat at the Battle of Hastings.
The church and its grounds tell tales stretching back nearly a thousand years, but Waltham Abbey’s history doesn’t stop there. Wander through the town and you’ll find Tudor-era timbered buildings and old-world streets that add character and charm at every turn. The Abbey Gardens are another highlight, with landscaped grounds, peaceful walkways, and ruins of the original abbey buildings — the perfect spot for a stroll.
What makes Waltham Abbey so special is that it’s not just frozen in the past. The town has a lively community spirit, with independent shops, cosy cafés, and restaurants giving it a warm and welcoming feel. It’s a place where you can explore history in the morning and enjoy a slice of modern town life in the afternoon.
And for those who love the outdoors, Waltham Abbey is just a stone’s throw from Epping Forest. With miles of scenic trails, cycling routes, and wide open spaces, it’s a great base for anyone looking to mix heritage with nature. It’s this blend of history, culture, and greenery that keeps visitors coming back.
All in all, Waltham Abbey is a gem of a town — part living museum, part vibrant community. Whether you come for the church, the gardens, or the forest, you’ll leave with a sense of having stepped into a place where England’s story still echoes through the stones and streets.
Buckhurst Hill – Suburban Charm on the Edge of the Forest
Buckhurst Hill is a leafy suburban town sitting about 10 miles northeast of central London, right on the edge of Epping Forest. Known for its quiet streets, green spaces, and affluent feel, it’s the sort of place where you can enjoy a slower pace of life while still being only a short Tube ride from the capital. With walking, cycling, and horse riding right on the doorstep, the forest is an everyday playground for locals.
The town has a distinctive character, shaped by its mix of housing. You’ll find Victorian and Edwardian terraces rubbing shoulders with more modern homes, giving Buckhurst Hill a blend of old and new. Alongside this, there’s a busy high street with shops, restaurants, cafés, and all the essentials that make day-to-day life easy for families and professionals.
Transport links are a big part of Buckhurst Hill’s appeal. With its own station on the Central Line, residents can be in the heart of London in no time, making it a popular choice for commuters who want the balance of city access and suburban calm. That convenient connection has shaped the town into one of the area’s most desirable places to live.
There’s history here too. St John the Baptist Church, dating back to the 19th century, is one of the town’s most recognisable landmarks. Just a short walk away is Queen Elizabeth’s Hunting Lodge, a Tudor gem that once welcomed royalty and today invites visitors to step inside a slice of living history. Together, they root Buckhurst Hill firmly in the story of the wider area.
All in all, Buckhurst Hill has a bit of everything: suburban peace, a touch of history, excellent links to London, and the beauty of Epping Forest right next door. It’s that mix of tranquillity and convenience that keeps the town high on the list for families and professionals alike.
Wanstead – Leafy Streets, Local Spirit, and London on Your Doorstep
Wanstead is a lively suburban spot in the London Borough of Redbridge, sitting up in northeast London. Known for its leafy streets, historic buildings, and buzzing high street, it’s got a real village feel while still being firmly part of the capital. With a mix of shops, cafés, pubs, and restaurants, everything you need is right on your doorstep.
One of Wanstead’s biggest draws is its green space. Wanstead Park and Wanstead Flats are local favourites, offering wide-open spaces for walking, running, football, and family days out. The park itself is steeped in history, once part of the grand Wanstead House estate, and today it’s a peaceful retreat where locals come to stretch their legs and enjoy a bit of fresh air.
The town’s history runs deep too. Wanstead House, though no longer standing, was once one of the most impressive stately homes in the area, a grand 18th-century mansion whose gardens still shape the park today. St Mary’s Church and other historic landmarks add to the sense that Wanstead has always been a place where heritage and community sit side by side.
There’s a real community spirit here as well. From local fairs and festivals to markets and family-friendly events, Wanstead keeps a lively calendar that brings residents together throughout the year. It’s the sort of place where neighbours know each other and the high street has a proper buzz.
With great transport links, including the Central Line and regular bus services, getting into central London is quick and easy. That makes Wanstead especially popular with commuters who want the best of both worlds: urban convenience with the charm and calm of a leafy suburb. Add in the strong sense of community and heritage, and it’s no wonder Wanstead remains one of the most sought-after areas in this corner of London.