The ancient forest on the edge of London perfect for a cooling leafy shaded walk

The 2,400 acres of ancient woodland straddle the borders of London and Essex

London has been sweltering in the heatwave this week, with an unprecedented red weather warning in place. For those looking to shelter from the rays with a cooling summer walk, the shades of Epping Forest in North East London may prove to be a Godsend.

The 2,400 acres of ancient woodland straddle the borders of London and Essex, filled with mystery and historic places of interest – earning it the deserved nickname, ‘the cockney paradise’.

Epping Forest is the setting for no fewer than 11 popular walks and trails on apps such as AllTrails and Komoot. But for those just looking for a leisurely stroll to while away an hour in the afternoon, the 2.6 mile (4km) Beech Trail promises the perfect outing.

Start the walk at The Oyster Shack and Seafood Bar famed for its mango curried prawns, which has a nearby car park, before walking east on a footpath which takes you through thick and luscious woodlands of Mount Pleasant and Little Monk Wood.

Follow the path as it plunges southwards down to Green Ride, before it twists its way to Loughton Camp Iron Age Hill Fort, some two miles from your starting point, and admire the earthworks which yield clues about the historic fort from 500BC.

Continue along the path as it takes you further south into dense woodland, until you reach a stream known as the Debden Slade. Walk west adjacent to the water and follow the path as it loops northwards, eventually hitting another stream known as Kate’s cellar.

The final stretch of the walk brushes past the western edge of Loughton Camp fort, and its a steady walk north until you return to the Oyster Shack. There, it’s perhaps the perfect time to seek some refreshment and enjoy the venue’s famed seafood dishes.

For full details about Epping Forest’s Beech Hill walk, see AllTrails or Komoot.

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