Guided Trail: 16 MILES - Epping to Ingatestone

This trail leads through the mildly undulating area to the east of the northerly end of Epping Forest, initially through the Roding River catchment area, later that of the River Wid. It is an area dotted with ancient woods, historic villages, old churches, plentiful pubs and inns and large manor houses, reflecting the wealth generated by the richness of the soil and the existence of important trading routes leading through it. The outstanding historic features and buildings are Chipping Ongar’s Motte-and-Double-Bailey, Greensted’s oldest wooden church in the world and Blackmore’s former priory church with its rare wooden bell tower. The first half of the walk follows the Essex Way and shadows the now closed stretch of the Central Line from Epping to Ongar. The second half of the walk broadly follows the St. Peter’s Way to near Ingatestone. The route passes through many woods and with the subsoil being London Clay, some mud can be expected after rain. There are also a handful of arable field crossings, all along usually well-cleared paths though.

As always, don't forget to bring appropriate clothing and footwear, and check the weather before you leave the house to ensure you are prepared for all eventualities. A vest/pack might be useful to carry water and snacks too.

We will meet at Liverpool Street Train station at 09:00am on Sunday 14th May catching the 09:30am central line train to Epping. At the end of the trail we will have some food at a local pub or cafe, and catch the bus back to Epping.