Epping Forest

Epping Forest which includes forests and autumn leaves
Epping Forest
Epping Forest which includes autumn colours and forests
Epping Forest showing autumn colours, forests and cycling
Epping Forest which includes forests


Rent a mountain bike and ride beneath the forest canopy or go bird-watching along the many hiking trails that wind through this ancient forest.

Straddling a ridge on the outskirts of London, Epping Forest is one of Britain’s most revered patches of woodland. In 1882, when Queen Elizabeth proclaimed the 600 acres (243 hectares) known as Epping Forest to be the people’s forest, the area became a destination for leisure seekers. Today, the tradition continues with locals and visitors to the region using the forest for hiking, bird-watching and mountain biking.

Start your day with a stop at one of the visitor centers found throughout the park. Here you can learn about the ecology and history of the forest. Listen in to a ranger talk and find out why the forest is one of just three Special Areas for Conservation in the area. Interactive activities will entertain children for hours and leave them excited to explore the winding paths that lead from the centers into the forest. Before you leave a center, pick up a trail guide to help you discover the regions of Epping Forest.

Keep watch for the local wildlife as you hike along the trails. As well as deer, rabbits and squirrels, the forest is home to many rare species of bird. Epping Forest is a popular destination for bird-watchers, with great crested grebe, woodpeckers and skylarks commonly seen nesting in the trees.

Experience the thrill of mountain biking rent a bike from the Cycle Hire Centre located within the forest. Safety information is provided for first-timers and a map gives information about the various trails.

Epping Forest is located approximately 15 miles (24 kilometers) from London and can be reached by car in less than an hour. Free parking is available at all entrances to the forest. Use public transport to reach the forest via the city of London. The forest is open daily and there is no admission fee.

Plan a trip to see Epping Forest

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Things to do near Epping Forest

Epping Forest offers a delightful range of activities for visitors, including scenic walks and cycling routes amidst stunning natural beauty. Art enthusiasts can explore local galleries, while the forest itself is perfect for a day of sightseeing, allowing you to immerse yourself in the tranquil surroundings. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy a picnic or discover the diverse wildlife that inhabits this historic woodland.

Shopping

Epping Forest offers a delightful shopping experience with Westfield Stratford City, just 5.0km away, featuring a vibrant mix of shops and entertainment. If you're up for a drive, Old Spitalfields Market and The Harry Potter Shop at Platform 9 3/4 are both 6.8km away, offering unique finds and city vibes.

Recreation

The O2 Arena, a vibrant sports facility, offers an energetic atmosphere perfect for sports enthusiasts. For a dose of music, the ABBA Arena provides a lively entertainment experience. Meanwhile, Hampstead Heath is ideal for wellness and relaxation, with its expansive greenery and tranquil surroundings for peaceful walks and picnics.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of camping at Gilwell Park, just 1.2km from Epping Forest, where outdoor family fun awaits. Alternatively, enjoy exhilarating water sports at Lee Valley White Water Centre, located 1.9km away, for an adrenaline-fueled adventure amidst stunning natural scenery.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife in Epping Forest by visiting the Barbican Arts Centre for a cultural evening, or enjoy some thrilling fun at Mayhem Paintball. For a relaxed night out, catch a film at Everyman Cinemas Screen on the Green, perfect for family and romance.

Find the best attractions near Epping Forest

Epping Forest offers a delightful blend of urban parks, charming churches, and vibrant streets, making it an ideal destination for culture enthusiasts and families alike. Visitors can immerse themselves in the area's rich heritage and enjoy various activities that cater to different interests, ensuring a memorable experience in this picturesque part of England.

  • Tower of London: Immerse yourself in history at this iconic castle, renowned for its rich culture and romantic vibes. Explore the Crown Jewels and the medieval architecture that has stood the test of time, all while taking in stunning views of the Thames.
  • ExCeL Exhibition Centre: A hub of innovation and business, this modern event venue hosts a variety of exhibitions and conferences. Experience the dynamic atmosphere where creativity meets commerce, making it a must-visit for networking and industry insights.
  • Finsbury Park: Enjoy a day out in this vibrant urban park, perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts. With its lush green spaces, playgrounds, and scenic pathways, it offers a delightful escape from the city buzz.

Best time to go to Epping Forest

The best time to visit Epping Forest can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Epping Forest falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Epping Forest falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January40.5°F (4.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February41.7°F (5.4°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
March45.0°F (7.2°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyAverageAverage
April49.5°F (9.7°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
May55.0°F (12.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
June61.0°F (16.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
July64.9°F (18.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly High
August64.6°F (18.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly Low
September60.4°F (15.8°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
October54.5°F (12.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
November47.1°F (8.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
December42.8°F (6.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Epping Forest

To save money on your visit to Epping Forest, consider travelling between January and March when accommodation prices are lower. Book your hotel about a month in advance for the best rates, or look for last-minute deals on Expedia. Sundays typically offer the cheapest stays, while Wednesdays are the priciest. Utilise Expedia's search tool to filter options by budget and location, and consider package deals that combine flights and hotels for further savings. Don't forget to explore the area on foot to enjoy free activities in the forest!

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Epping Forest are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to July, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Epping Forest is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Epping Forest is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay around Epping Forest is Wednesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia's search tool to refine your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel stay in Epping Forest with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.