The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around Epping Forest
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Dog friendly hiking trails around Epping Forest traverse over 6,000 acres of ancient woodland and varied terrain, stretching 13 miles from Manor Park to Epping. The region is characterized by its ancient pollarded trees, open grasslands, heathland, and rolling hills with gentle gradients. Numerous reed-fringed ponds and serene streams also contribute to the diverse landscape, which is recognized as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
Best dog friendly hiking trails around Epping Forest
- The most popular dog friendly hiking route is Hainault Country Park and Chigwell Row Wood loop, a 4.1 miles (6.6 km) trail that takes 1 hour 46 minutes to complete. This easy route explores ancient woodlands and open parkland.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Miller & Carter Steakhouse β Hainault Forest loop from Hainault Lodge Nature Reserve, a moderate 6.3 miles (10.1 km) path. This route winds through forest trails and offers views of the surrounding area.
- Local hikers also love the Redwood Grove Path β View of the London Skyline loop from Havering-Atte-Bower, a 9.1 miles (14.7 km) trail leading through varied landscapes, including a viewpoint of the London skyline, often completed in about 3 hours 59 minutes.
- Hiking around Epping Forest is defined by ancient woodlands, open grasslands, and rolling hills. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy strolls to more challenging hikes.
- The routes in Epping Forest are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from more than 900 reviews. More than 7,700 hikers have used komoot to explore Epping Forest's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
4.0
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6.64km
01:47
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
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27
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.3
(4)
19
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
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5
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Epping Forest
Dog-friendly hikes around Epping Forest
Dog-friendly hikes around Hainault Forest
Dog-friendly hikes around Chigwell
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Tips from the Community
Gravel trails leading from Havering Country Park in the east, towards Hainault Forest in the west. This track follows the local authority boundary and skirts to the north of the golf course.
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Great view from the edge of the woods across heathland to the London skyline.
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Hainault Forest is an ancient forest home to an array of beautiful plant and animal species. There's a canopy of oak and hornbeam and a burst of seasonal bluebells in spring, accompanied by an impressive display of around 158 bird species! The views from within the forest of the surrounding area are fantastic. There's also a boating lake, miniature henge and cafΓ© to explore.
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Hainault Forest trails feature a number of sculptures fashioned out of the woodland.
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You'll find the Boating Lake in Hainault Forest Country Park, a little slice of peaceful, green paradise away from the urban sprawl. The London LOOP trail goes past it, so if you're walking and fancy a chance at seeing the area from the water, why not stop and take a boat out? You can hire traditional rowing boats by the hour. If you're happy on land, the lake is a nice place to stop for a snack.
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This peaceful country park is the perfect place to go for a quiet stroll. There are giant redwoods here, a rare sight in England and they form a stunning avenue. The park was originally part of the royal Havering Palace estate and Charles I stayed here in the 17th century. Today, it's simply a glorious place for a walk and the London LOOP path travels through it.
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Big, beautiful Redwood trees. Not as big as the ones in California, but these are significantly younger, planted by the McIntosh family about 150 years ago.
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Lovely gravel track through the forest in Havering Country Park, lined with giant redwoods. Look out for the amazing view of London at the end, too.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many dog-friendly hiking trails are available in Epping Forest?
Epping Forest offers a wide selection of dog-friendly hiking trails. Our guide features over 40 routes, with 22 classified as easy, 16 as moderate, and 5 as difficult, ensuring options for every dog and owner.
What kind of terrain can I expect on dog-friendly trails in Epping Forest?
You'll find a diverse landscape in Epping Forest. Trails wind through ancient woodlands with majestic old pollarded trees, open grasslands, heathland, and rolling hills with gentle gradients. There are also reed-fringed ponds and serene streams, providing varied scenery for you and your dog.
Are there easy dog-friendly walks suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, Epping Forest has plenty of easy dog-friendly walks. Our guide includes 22 easy routes, perfect for a relaxed stroll with your canine companion. An example is the Hainault Country Park and Chigwell Row Wood loop, which is just over 6 km long.
Can I find circular dog-friendly routes in Epping Forest?
Many of the dog-friendly routes in Epping Forest are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. This is ideal for exploring different parts of the forest. For instance, the Hainault Forest β Roots and Drops Trail loop offers a great circular option.
What natural features or landmarks can I see on dog-friendly hikes?
Epping Forest is rich in natural and historical attractions. You can explore ancient trees like the Grimston's Oak (The Monarch of the Forest), visit the Epping Forest Deer Sanctuary, or discover picturesque ponds such as Connaught Water and Hollow Ponds. Iron Age hill forts like Ambresbury Banks are also accessible.
Are there any historical sites accessible on dog-friendly trails?
Absolutely. Epping Forest is home to significant historical sites. You can visit Iron Age hill forts like Loughton Camp, which offer a glimpse into the area's ancient past. The 16th-century Queen Elizabeth I Hunting Lodge is another notable historical landmark within the forest.
Is Epping Forest easily accessible by public transport for dog walkers?
Yes, Epping Forest is very accessible from central London. You can reach various entry points via the tube and regular bus services, making it convenient for dog owners who rely on public transport.
Are there places where my dog can swim or access water along the trails?
Epping Forest features several reed-fringed ponds and serene streams. While specific designated swimming areas for dogs might vary, many trails will pass by these natural water sources, offering opportunities for your dog to cool off or have a drink. Ponds like Connaught Water and Hollow Ponds are prominent features.
What do other hikers enjoy most about dog-friendly walks in Epping Forest?
The komoot community highly rates Epping Forest, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 900 ratings. Reviewers often praise the ancient woodlands, the varied terrain, and the sense of escape from urban life, making it a favorite for dog owners seeking natural beauty and peaceful walks.
What is the best time of year to visit Epping Forest with my dog?
Epping Forest offers a stunning experience throughout all seasons. Spring brings vibrant new growth and wildflowers, summer provides lush green canopy, autumn transforms the ancient trees into a spectacular display of colors, and winter offers crisp, quiet walks. Each season has its unique charm for you and your dog.
Are there more challenging dog walks in Epping Forest?
Yes, for those looking for a more strenuous outing with their dog, Epping Forest offers 5 difficult routes. These trails typically feature longer distances and more significant elevation changes, providing a good workout for active dogs and their owners. An example is the Redwood Grove Path β View of the London Skyline loop, which covers nearly 15 km.
Most popular routes around Epping Forest
Most popular attractions around Epping Forest
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