Epping Forest

Queen Elizabeth's Hunting Lodge

 

Queen Elizabeth's Hunting Lodge is a wonderful timber-framed Tudor hunt standing build by King Henry VIII in 1543. It was constructed as a grandstand that allowed guests both to view the hunt in the nearby Epping Forest, or participate by shooting their crossbows from the upper floors. The building is on three floors; on the ground floor, is a lovely display of Tudor foods and kitchenware. The upper floors offer wonderful views across Chingford Plain and Epping Forest and also provides information on Tudor carpentry and costumes.

 

Today it is a peaceful and atmospheric building set in the historic natural woodland of Epping Forest, five minutes walk from Chingford Station, and is open throughout the year. Entrance is free although donations are very welcome.

 

Epping Forest

With almost 6,000 acres of managed forest, including conservation areas, Epping Forest in Essex is a   popular destination for the locals to enjoy. This important wildlife habitat is also of national and   international importance with two thirds designed a Site of Special Scientific Interest and Special Area of   Conservation.

 

In the last 19th century, large areas of forest were being enclosed for development, with little or no regard for commoners' rights or the recreational needs of the population. The City of London joined forces with the commoners who had grazing rights in the forest and the right to cut wood. Together they fought a legal battle that culminated in two ground-breaking Acts of Parliament passed in 1878; one entrusted the ownership and stewardship of the Forest to the City of London and the other Act made provision for similar provision for other open spaces under threat.

 

There are numerous walks, sites of special interest, including Loughton Hill Iron Age fort and a programme of annual events to enjoy. Further information from the Epping Forest visitor centres.