WELCOME TO OUR Beautiful Britain - Epping Forest PROJECT
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Summary: A Look at Some of Britain's Beauty spots - Epping Forest in Essex
Beautiful Britain – Epping Forest
Managed by the City of London Corporation, Epping Forest covers almost 6,000 acres and stretches from Manor Park in East London to the north of Epping in Essex. It is the largest open space in the London area, and over two thirds of it has been designated both a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a Special Area of Conservation.
Used by the Royals as a hunting ground, in the 17th century Epping Forest was over ten times the size it is now. Travellers who had to journey through were afraid of the many robbers and footpads who worked the forest, which was the hiding place of perhaps one of the most famous highwaymen, Dick Turpin, who had a hideout deep in the forest. Being so close to London, the forest was a favoured burial ground for murder victims too!!
Centuries of overuse by smallholders, timber merchants and commoners have reduced the forest in size, a process that was finally halted by the Epping Forest Act of 1878, and is still used in the management of the forest today.
Epping Forest manages to combine an important wildlife habitat with a hugely popular area for all kinds of recreational activities. Walking, cycling and horse riding can be enjoyed, although it is important to adhere to the guidelines in relation to where you can cycle. With over 50 miles rides through the forest, horse riding is a great way of enjoying the forest, although riders should also ensure that they have obtained a valid riding licence which can be obtained from the visitor centre.
There are three visitor centres across the forest, the main one being to the north at High Beach. Open seven days a week, the centre has everything you will need to get the most out of your visit to the forest.
Queen Elizabeth’s Hunting Lodge in Chingford is also open throughout the year. Originally built for Henry VIII in 1543, it allowed guests a vantage point to watch the hunt and see the views over the forest from the upper floors. Entrance to the lodge is free and now houses an interesting display of replica Tudor kitchen items. There are several different activities run by the visitor centre throughout the year, from musical events and historical re-enactments, to themed craft afternoons for children and adults alike. Courses include amongst others, Spring & Autumn Walks, Discovering Wild Flowers, Painting & Drawing and the Natural History of Veteran Trees.
However, it is advisable to book!
Epping Forest is a great place to spend a day for all the family throughout the year.
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