Walk 3.5 hrs (13km) 
Total Ascent 219 m 
Highest Point 113 m Welcome to this Quick Escape
This Quick Escape can be done on the shortest day of the year. But, if we had to choose, then the spectacular autumnal colours are not to be missed! Our recommended spot for some lunch is The Oyster Shack and Seafood Bar, in the middle of Epping Forest. If city life has taken over and you are in need of a top-up of nature, this Escape really is for you.
Ready to walk?
Be sure to download your PDF guide for the walk and make sure you have the OS maps app downloaded.
Before you start
Here’s 3 important things you need to know before you head off:
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Save this Guide
Save the PDF guide on your device that you’re going to use on the walk. (This contains all the handy information, from how to get there, points of interest and pubs, taxis etc).
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Download OS Map App
This is how you will navigate your way around the route. The link for the route is in this guide and will take you to the OS Maps app.
Click here for Apple
Click here for Android
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Battery
Make sure you have plenty of battery. We hope you have a great walk.
The Curator Alex Middleton
Meet the Curator
Alex Middleton is one of Vespucci Adventures Co-founders, so it goes without saying that he is passionate about inspiring people outside and into nature.
He now lives in London, but can’t help himself from a big expedition, like cycling from Istanbul to Hong Kong or walking the entire length of New Zealand… Despite his epic trips, he still believes that you don’t have to go far for a great day out, and where better for a Londoner than Epping Forest!
“We have some awesome nature here in the UK and we are lucky to have such fantastic examples so close to our big cities. In the simplest terms, I am happiest outside. The benefit to my physical and mental wellbeing I gain from exploring the UK on foot cannot be overstated and I hope you will feel the same!
Epping Forests ancient oak trees are the perfect companion while you follow the paths to stumble across Connaught Water. This is a picturesque lake located in the forest. It offers a tranquil setting for a pause and contemplation, an essential part to get the most out of nature. It is a popular spot for birdwatching and picnics.
This hike is an achievable hike for any ability, and when it’s this easy to access from London, I can’t believe that some Londoners have never been!”
Hike Summary
Epping Forest, Essex
Londoners are incredibly lucky to have this 2,400 acre ancient woodland right on their doorstep! The sunlight filtering through the dense canopy creates a tranquil ambiance that is the perfect antidote to the chaos of city life. Early risers on the forest trails will be greeted by the choir of bird song and the occasional scampering of shy mammals going into hiding for the day. The forest’s rich biodiversity reveals itself as keen observers may catch glimpses of deer navigating through the underbrush or rabbits darting across the woodland floor.
If you bring a picnic there are some fantastic picnic areas to enjoy the crisp air and the natural beauty that surrounds you while you stop. Or you can leave the catering to the Oyster Shack and Seafood bar. It has delicious fresh food served in an unfussy style allowing the quality of the fish to speak for itself.
The scent of pine and earth permeates the air, providing a sensory experience that connects visitors with the timeless charm of Epping Forest which has been a protected site since 1887.
Hike Highlights
View from Pole Hill
Take in the great views over central London before heading into the woods.
The perfect pub
Sipping on a well-earned drink in a quintessential English pub.
Epic oak trees
Epping Forest is home to a famous 900 year old oak tree call Fairlop Oak.
London Overground
Start at Chingford station, the station is served by the London overground . We recommend using the Citymapper app to plan your route to the station. The walk finishes at Loughton Station which is served by the Central Line.
Car
If you drive, you can park near the golf course at Chingford and get a bus back from Loughton to Chingford at the end of your walk.
Sometimes, we can get so caught up in reaching our destination that we forget to take in our surroundings. When in fact, some of the best moments on a walk are the ones spent not walking. It is not until you stop and look a little closer, that you truly see the magic of where you are.
Our hikes are not about how fast you walk, but about how much you take in. We share these beautiful trails with an abundance of wildlife and there’s always something to marvel at – so long as you take the time to look around.
A walk in Epping Forest is not complete without visiting this epic oyster shack! The hot and cold seafood “tapas” platters are a hit, along with the refreshing oysters on ice and the renowned curried mango prawns. Don’t miss out on the freshly made bacon and scallop rolls—they’re a personal favorite!
Points of interest
Places to enjoy along the route
What’s Next?
Done the hike? Let us and fellow members know how you got on and leave any tips and advice!