The Best Things to Do in Epping Forest

Epping Forest is a beautiful stretch of ancient woodland, and it’s one of the easiest places to escape the hustle and bustle of London. Spanning more than 6,000 acres, this historic landscape has grown from a royal hunting ground into a sanctuary for wildlife, walkers, cyclists, families and anyone craving a breath of fresh air.

Today, it’s a go-to spot for families, friends and solo adventurers to explore. Whether you’re here for culture, fresh air or a peaceful afternoon under the trees, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

If you’re wondering what to do in Epping Forest, this guide will walk you through some of the best things to try, from scenic trails to historic pubs that champion local, sustainable produce.

Explore the trails and nature of Epping Forest

One of the loveliest ways to enjoy Epping Forest is simply to wander. 

With more than 280 kilometres of footpaths, there’s a trail for every season and every pace. In spring, the woodland floor turns blue with flowers; in autumn, golden leaves create stunning landscapes for photographers and nature lovers. 

Keep an eye out for the many animals that call the forest home too, including woodpeckers, owls and even fallow deer.

To help protect this incredible space, it’s important to explore responsibly. That means sticking to marked paths, leaving no litter, and giving wildlife the room it needs. These small choices help keep the forest thriving for the next generation of explorers.

Discover local history at Epping Forest Museum

If you’re curious about the stories behind the woodland, the Epping Forest Museum in Waltham Abbey is the ideal stop. 

The exhibits cover 100,000 objects reflecting human life around Epping Forest, telling the history of the communities who’ve lived there for centuries.

A visit to Epping Forest Museum is the perfect way to balance your outdoor adventures with a deeper understanding of the people and traditions that shaped the landscape you’re walking through.

Unwind at the best pubs in Epping Forest

After a long day of exploring, nothing beats relaxing at one of the best pubs in Epping Forest. 

Luckily, there are plenty to choose from. Some of the most popular Epping Forest pubs include The King’s Oak, known for its excellent gastro pub food; Theydon Oak, a historic 18th century pub serving delicious home-cooked meals; and The Woodbine, offering locally sourced dishes and drinks.

Many pubs in Epping Forest pride themselves on sustainability, sourcing ingredients from local Essex farms and breweries, making them perfect for eco-conscious visitors.

Relax with a fishing rod

If you’re looking for some more unique things to do in Epping Forest, why not spend the day fishing at one of the forest’s many ponds?

There are 25 ponds scattered across the woodland, offering plenty of opportunity to settle beside the water and enjoy a quieter side of the forest. 

You don’t need to be a seasoned angler to give it a go, either. Even if you don’t catch anything, the experience gives you a great opportunity to slow down and reconnect with nature. Just make sure to respect the rules while you’re there, including buying a fishing rod licence and only fishing in designated areas.

Explore one of the cycling routes

With 284 kilometres of shared-use paths, Epping Forest is a paradise for cyclists. It’s a great way to cover more ground and enjoy a cleaner, greener way to travel through the forest. 

You can bring your own bike or hire one from Go Further Cycling, located close to Chingford Station.

Cycling responsibly helps everyone enjoy the forest, so make sure you stick to designated routes, ride at a safe pace and give way in busy areas. These simple steps keep the forest accessible and sustainable for all.

Play a few rounds at Chingford Golf Course

If you prefer something a bit more leisurely, Chingford Golf Course offers the perfect blend of sport and scenery. 

Surrounded by ancient trees and peaceful views, the course is suitable for golfers of all levels.

A few rounds here give you a new way to enjoy the forest while spending time doing something you love.

Consider moving to Epping Forest?

If you find yourself falling in love with the calm, the greenery and the slower pace of life here, you might even consider making Epping Forest your home. Our sustainable new builds at Carpenters Yard are designed to blend modern comfort with eco-friendly living.

To find out more or arrange a visit, get in touch with our team and they will be glad to help you explore your options.