Epping Forest

Epping Forest is the largest public open space in the London area. Measuring 19km x 4km, two-thirds of Epping Forrest is wooded and the same proportion designated a 'Site of Special Scientific Interest'.

Ownership since 1878
In the second half of the 19th century large areas of Epping Forest were being enclosed for development, with scant regard for commoners’ rights or general recreational needs. Such was the Corporation’s concern over this that it fought a legal battle against the enclosures, culminating in two ground-breaking Acts of Parliament passed in 1878. One of these entrusted the ownership and care of Epping Forest to the Corporation, with the second making similar provision for other open spaces under similar threat.

Epping Forest today
Epping Forest today combines the roles of scenic open space, wildlife habitat and conservation centre. It hosts numerous activities and encompasses the Grade II listed Wanstead Park, two listed buildings - Queen Elizabeth’s Hunting Lodge and the Temple - and the remains of two large Iron Age earthworks.

For historic images of Epping Forest visit the EESOPE project website.

To ensure your stay in Epping Forest is comfortable and affordable, Contact Us to make your reservation at Pergola Lodge Guest House.

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