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Frequently Asked Questions


Who is responsible for Epping Forest?

The City of London are the Conservators of Epping Forest. The administrative offices of Epping Forest are at The Warren, Loughton, Essex, IG10 4RW.

Where can I find out more about Epping Forest?

Contact the Epping Forest Visitor Centre on 020 8508 0028, or email us.

Whom should I contact for assistance on the Forest?

Telephone 020 8532 1010 (or 999 if the emergency services are required).

Can I organise an event / activity to take place within Epping Forest?

You must apply in writing to the Superintendent to obtain a licence to organise any kind of event / activity within Epping Forest. Please apply in writing to The Superintendent, The Warren, Loughton, Essex, IG10 4RW. Please include full details of the event you wish to organise. If you require any further information, please download the guidelines below or telephone 020 8532 1010.

Download guidelines for Epping Forest events (19kb)

Can I ride my horse in Epping Forest?

You must have a licence to ride a horse in Epping Forest. Licences can be applied for at the Epping Forest Visitor Centre (020 8508 0028 or email us). Please view the leaflets on Horse Riding for further information - see the Visitor Centre page.

Can dogs be walked in Epping Forest?

Yes, however they must be under reasonable control. Please view the leaflet on Dogs below for further information:

You and Your Dog (402kb)

Is cycling permitted in Epping Forest?

Yes, with the exception of the easy access paths, Wanstead Park, the ancient earthworks and on some of the Bufferlands. All cycling restricted areas are clearly signed as such. We also ask cyclists to have respect for all other Forest users. Please view the leaflets on cycling for further information - see the Visitor Centre page.

Why are there cows in the Forest?

The longhorn cattle currently located in the Chingford / High Beach area of the Forest during the summer months, are owned by a local farm. Commoners have the right to graze cattle on the Forest. Please see the leaflet on grazing for further information below:

Download the grazing leaflet here (281kb) 

Can I collect fungi in the Forest?

You must have a licence to collect fungi from Epping Forest. The licence can be obtained free of charge from the Epping Forest Visitor Centre. Contact the Visitor Centre on 020 8508 0028 or email us for further information, or download the leaflet on fungi below:

Download the fungi leaflet here (265kb)

Can I have a barbecue in Epping Forest?

No. Unfortunately the fire risk is too great for us to permit the use of barbecues on Forest land.

What happens if I break a byelaw?

A copy of the Byelaws relating to public use of the Forest can be purchased from the Epping Forest Visitor Centre (25p plus postage). Serious breaches of the byelaws may be reported by the Forest Keepers to the Superintendent of Epping Forest and may lead to prosecution.

Where can I purchase maps / books / souvenirs of the Forest?

The Epping Forest Visitor Centre, located in High Beach. Telephone 020 8508 0028.

How can I find out about Events taking place in Epping Forest?

Epping Forest organise many, exciting and seasonal events throughout the year and throughout the Forest, including guided walks, guided bike / horse rides, craft activities and seasonal Forest trails. Please see the Events and activities page. You can also contact the Epping Forest Visitor Centre on 020 8508 0028 or email us.

How can I sign up to your mailing list to receive the publication ‘Forest Focus’ free, three times year?

Please either telephone The Warren on 020 8532 1010 or email us.

How should I report any ‘faults’ within the Forest?

Please refer to the page on Fault reporting.

What should I do if I witness people breaking the byelaws of Epping Forest?

Please telephone 020 8532 1010.

How can I find out about job vacancies within Epping Forest? 

Please check the job opportunities page, as all of our vacant positions are advertised there.


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