The ancient Epping Forest is the largest public open space in London, with nearly 6,000 acres of space. Bordering Essex and London, it has recreational facilities as well as woodland, lakes, rivers and bogs. Once used for grazing and hunting (although only members of the royal family could take part in the latter), the forest is still home to many deer and other wildlife, however in the case of the deer they have had to be enclosed to prevent them being run over by cars, as there are various roads that run through the woods. Nowadays, the hunting has been replaced by rambling, bird watching, cycling, horse riding and running, there are regular guided walks and bike rides should you not wish to go it alone. Open air theatre performances, live music, exhibitions and other events take place, particularly throughout the summer months, and you can even participate in drawing classes if you want to improve your depictions of wild flowers. The rich flora and fauna of the forest has led to two thirds of it being designated a special conservation area.
Epping Forest (Visitor Centre)
Park in
Epping Forest (Visitor Centre) Picture Gallery
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The best walks around London
Strap on your boots and take a stroll around London.
Everyone knows that Epping Forest is where the bodies are buried but don’t let that put you off. The vast woodland is both peaceful and beautiful in equal measure, which makes it well worthy of setting aside a few hours to walk below the canopy.
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