Leisure
Epping Forest district walks
Walking is a low-impact exercise that’s accessible, affordable, and can be included in daily routines.
Walking offers numerous benefits for physical and mental well-being:
- Improved cardiovascular health
- Weight management
- Stress reduction
- Enhanced mood and cognitive function
Essex walks
The St Peter’s Way is a 45 mile walk meandering through the countryside of Essex, from Chipping Ongar to the ancient chapel of St Peter-on-the-Wall at Bradwell on Sea.
The Essex Way is a long-distance path stretching from Epping to Harwich, a distance of 81 miles.
The Forest Way is a 25-mile walk following the footpaths and ancient green lanes between the unique forests of Epping and Hatfield.
Find details on the Essex County Council website – Essex walks.
Essex short walks
Picturesque short walks that vary in distance but are usually around 4 miles.
- Epping and Theydon Bois – distance 4.8 miles
Find details on the Essex County Council website – Essex walks.
Walking in Epping Forest
The City of London Corporation owns Epping Forest. They have waymarked trails to help you get out and about in the Forest.
- Chestnut trail – distance 3.25 miles – time 2 hours
- Gifford trail – distance 1.25 miles – time 1 hour
- Golden Hill Trail – distance 1.6 miles – time 30 minutes
- Holly trail – distance 2.5 miles – time 1 hour
- Hornbeam trail – distance 3.5 miles – time 1.5 hours
- Lime trail – distance 1.5 miles – time 30 to 40 minutes
- Oak trail – distance 6.6 miles – time 3 to 4 hours
- Rowan trail – distance 1.5 miles – time 45 to 60 minutes
Find details on the City of London website – Walking and running in Epping Forest.
London LOOP
The London Outer Orbital Path, or London LOOP, almost completely circles Greater London. 150 miles are split into 24 bite-size walks.
Taking the London LOOP is a great way to get to know London better. It is made up of flat or gentle sloping sections that cover beautiful open spaces like Hainault Forest Country Park. 2 sections go through the Epping Forest district:
- Section 19 – Chingford to Chigwell
- Section 20 – Chigwell to Havering-atte Bower
Find details on the Transport for London website – London LOOP.