Epping Forest and Visitor Centre

Epping Forest is, at 6,000 acres, 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 it's some pretty special woodland there and some fantastic mini beast safaris!

These days Epping Forest combines a modern visitor centre experience with it's established roles of scenic open space, important wildlife habitat and family adventure destination.

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.

Pets allowed

Dogs are welcome.

Guest suitability

Epping Forest is a natural open space with mixed woodland, grassland, lakes and some parkland. The ground level of the Forest varies greatly across its 13 mile length and inclines are frequent.

Eating information

Butler's Retreat
Monday to Friday 09:00 - 17:00
Saturday to Sunday 10:00 - 18:00