Epping Forest and Visitor Centre
Epping, Essex
About Epping Forest and Visitor Centre
Epping Forest is the largest public open space in the London area and stretches a massive 12 miles from Manor Park in East London to just north of Epping in Essex! And a whopping two-thirds of it is designated both a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a Special Area of Conservation, so there's some pretty special woodland there and some fantastic mini beast safaris!
These days Epping Forest combines a modern visitor centre experience with its established roles of scenic open space, important wildlife habitat and family adventure destination.
If you're looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life, Epping Forest is your go-to destination. With its vast woodlands, picturesque parks, and an array of outdoor activities, this natural haven promises unforgettable moments for you and your family.
Things To Do
Epping Forest is a paradise for park enthusiasts! With over 6,000 acres of greenery, there's no shortage of lush landscapes to explore. Whether you're picnicking, playing sports, or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll, the parks here offer something for everyone. There are plenty of walks and waymarked trails for you to follow! From the tranquil serenity of High Beach to the bustling energy of Chingford Plains, each park has its own unique charm waiting to be discovered.
You have to check out the Roding Valley Meadow - it's full of lush greenery and the most stunning walking paths.
The Visitor Centre
There are 3 dedicated Forest Centres spread across Epping Forest offering opportunities to touch base and learn about the historic buildings: Epping Forest Visitor Centre in the north at High Beach, a popular beauty spot great for picnicking; Queen Elizabeth's Hunting Lodge in Chingford, which is an ancient Tudor timber hunt; and in the south, The Temple, dating from the 1760s, set in Wanstead Park, once the formal gardens of the magnificent Wanstead House.
We definitely recommend stopping by Epping Forest Visitor Centre at High Beach before your walk. Not only can you visit their Forest Exhibition, enjoy a close-up viewing of birds at their feeding station, browse the gift shop, pick up maps and find the best trails but you can also get involved with children’s activities, including scavenger hunts and activity sheets!
Food and Drink
Whether you're looking for a hearty meal, a comforting cake, or a light lunch, there are plenty of excellent refreshment facilities in the Epping Forest District for you to choose from!
Head to the Original Tea Hut for their famous sausage sandwiches and sausage rolls! The Adventure Cafe has a selection of pastries and hot and cold drinks for you to choose from. If you've walked to the Chingford Plain area in Epping forest, then you have to go to The Holly Trail Cafe for scampi and chips, bagels, soups and delicious cakes!! The Larder at Butlers Retreat offers a range of locally sourced food and drink options for you to enjoy.
Why We Recommend Epping Forest
- It's 6'000 acres of stunning parkland and woodland to explore
- There are plenty of activities for the kids to do at the Visitor Centre at High Beach
- There are plenty of excellent refreshment facilities for everyone to enjoy!
Reviews of Epping Forest
"I take my 2 year old granddaughter there regularly, she loves it.
A lovely way to introduce children to wildlife." Sharon
Over 6000 acres of greenery
There are over 6,000 acres of greenery and trails for you to explore!
Steeped in History
Epping Forest is associated with some famous historic figures including Dick Turpin and Mary Wollstonecraft.
Lots of food and drink options
There are lots of cafes and restaurants for you to choose from, offering a range of local, fresh and delicious meals, snacks and sweet treats.
Opening Times
Visitor Centre
Friday to Sunday
10 am - 4 pm
Bank Holidays
10 am - 4 pm
Pricing & Tickets
Free admission
Book in advance for cheapest tickets
Find other attractions similar to Epping Forest and Visitor Centre by visiting our attraction tickets section.
Plan Your Visit
Typical visit time 2 - 3 hours
Suitable for Kids and Adults too
Food & Drink Options
The Larder at Butler's Retreat
Offers a range of locally sourced food and drink options. Choose from brunch, light lunches, coffee and cakes and more! As well as, hot drinks, soft drinks, craft beer and wine.
Original Tea Hut
Offers a range of light lunches and snacks including their famous sausage sandwiches and sausage rolls! Plus a range of hot and cold drinks.
The Adventure Cafe
Offers a selection of pastries and hot and cold drinks for you to choose from.
Holly Trail Cafe
Offers a range of hot meals and light lunches like scampi and chips, bagels and soups. Plus they offer delicious cakes and sweet treats!!
FAQs
Parking
Toilets
Family Friendly Options
Food & Drink
Accessibility Information
Tickets & Bookings
Private Hire & Birthday Parties
Contact Details
Transport Information
Travelling by Train
You can take London Overground from Liverpool Street to Chingford Station. (It's just a 10 minute walk to Epping Station) The train also stops at Bethnal Green, Hackney and Walthamstow.
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Epping Forest and Visitor Centre Reviews
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