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Recreation

Epping Forest was the Bank Holiday retreat for the masses during Victorian times, allowing the people of the East End of London to breath clean air and enjoy the open green spaces. Large refreshment areas, or retreats would cater for the crowds and entertainment was provided in the form of swing boats, donkey rides and steam fairs.

Whilst Epping Forest is not the holiday destination on the same scale as it once was, the value of the Forest as a place of escape still continues as the tranquillity and beauty of Epping Forest is a vital diversion from the pressures of modern day life.  This semi-wilderness so close to the heart of London is very special, providing space for people to unwind, slow down and relax.

Epping Forest provides many opportunities for those who wish to take part in sport or physical recreation.  The Forest contains over 80km of surfaced and unsurfaced horse rides and is ideal for walking, jogging, cycling and orienteering.  There are over 80 football pitches at Wanstead Flats, a public golf course at Chingford and two model plane flying sites for licensed flyers.

The Conservators organise a programme of events organised throughout the Forest, many of which are free and range from craft activities to guided horse rides and from seasonal forest trails to open air theatre. The highlight of the events calendar is the Epping Forest Festival which takes place in September. This free event celebrates all that is great about Epping Forest and attracts thousands of people, with numbers growing each year.

Epping Forest is the home to Gilwell Park, the home of the Scout Association and a national activity centre providing outdoor adventurous activities such as climbing, abseiling, archery, kayaking etc too many different youth and educational groups (not just Scouts!)