Epping

Epping lends its name to a forest, a market town and surrounding district that never fails to surprise and delight visitors – and all just a walk, ride or tube journey away from the Capital.

Epping Forest District’s location makes it an ideal visitor destination, and its London Underground connections make it perfect for day trips. Both Epping Forest and the River Lea provide direct green links from London meaning visitors can choose to arrive on foot or by bike. With so much on offer many visitors choose to stay longer and make a weekend of it, as well as finding it a great base from which to explore the capital.

For a great day in the countryside, head into Epping Forest and call in on Queen Elizabeth's Hunting Lodge or discover the delights of the Essex Way, beginning outside Epping Station on the Central Line. Lee Valley Regional Park offers much for the leisure visitor and Lee Valley Park Farms and Ashlyns Farm at North Weald are popular family days out.

Greensted’s 11th century church is the oldest wooden church in the world whilst at Copped Hall, Shakespeare’s Midsummer Night’s Dream was first performed. Combine your visit with lunch in the leafy market towns of Epping or Ongar, two destinations linked by the Epping Ongar Heritage Railway or alight at North Weald with museum and weekly outdoor market on this former Battle of Britain airfield, still active today. For the ultimate retail therapy head for Loughton and Buckhurst Hill where you’ll find fashion and designer goods that inspired the TOWIE look. Finish with fine dining in one of the district’s many acclaimed restaurants.