Epping Forest
The 600 acre Epping Forest is the biggest open space in London. It is of national and international conservation importance with two thirds of it designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a Special Area of Conservation. The Forest is internationally renowned for its ancient pollarded trees - primarily Oak, Beech and Hornbeam. Such trees are many hundreds of years old and support a wealth of insects and fungi including many quite rare and vulnerable species
Wildlife highlights: Birds include all three species of Woodpecker, Skylarks, Tree Creepers and Nuthatches. Wildfowl such as Swans, Great Crested Grebes, Herons, Gadwall, Goosander and Wigeon enjoy over 80 lakes and ponds. Grey Squirrels, Rabbits, Muntjac Deer and Fallow Deer are frequently seen.
Reptiles include the Adder, Grass snake, newts and toads and frogs. Butterflies include Red admiral, peacock, orange tip, Clouded yellow, dingy skipper and Purple hairstreak.
Location and access: Parts of Epping Forest are very well served by Public Transport. Chingford Station can be accessed by an overground train from London's Liverpool Street Station and is well served by local buses. Ther are 3 visitor centres, a many car parks and footpaths.
These maps are intended as a guideline only; you must check the exact location of the reserve yourself. Wildlife Extra assumes no responsibility for the accuracy or usefulness of the information on this website.
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