The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Epping Upland
4.4
(1207)
8,415
hikers
8
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Epping Upland traverse ancient woodlands, rolling hills, and a serene network of ponds and streams, offering diverse terrain for all levels. The region is characterized by its integration with the larger Epping Forest, providing shaded paths and a sense of history. Hikers will find a landscape shaped by the Epping Forest Ridge, featuring gentle slopes and moderate inclines. This area provides a natural setting for outdoor activities, with numerous paths winding through its varied topography.
β¦Last updated: May 3, 2026
1.0
(1)
4
hikers
13.8km
03:37
120m
120m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
5
hikers
10.0km
02:37
70m
70m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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28
hikers
4.51km
01:11
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
hikers
4.28km
01:07
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
10.2km
02:44
130m
130m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Perky Blenders are popping up in more and more places. Great coffee.
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Epping Forest is a beautiful ancient woodland bordering Essex and Greater London. It is one of the largest public open spaces in the London area, covering around 2,400 hectares (approximately 5,900 acres). The forest stretches about 12 miles (19 km) from Epping in the north to Wanstead in the south. These days, Epping Forest is a popular destination for outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy walking, cycling, horse riding, birdwatching, and picnicking. The forest also offers a network of well-marked mountain biking trails right next to London. Here there are epic mud rides in the winter and gorgeous green bashes in the summer. There is a lot of biking fun to have here.
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The wide section of trail takes you through Epping Thicks, a densely wooded part of Epping Forest. Not far from here is Amesbury Banks, the site of an Iron Age Hillfort, while to the northeast is Bell Common and then the market town of Epping, beyond the busy M25. This part of the forest is explored on both the Oak Trail and the Epping Forest Big Walk.
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An Iron Age hillfort once stood here, in the northern reaches of Epping Forest. The earthworks are still clearly visible and would have protected an area of 11 acres (4.5 hectares). The legend goes that Boudica's last stand against the Romans occurred here, though there's no actual evidence that this is the case.
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Nice small pond with irises and water lilies. Apparently, there is fish, and fishing is allowed.
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There's a Perky Blenders coffee place here based in a converted caravan. It's a great place to have a flat white and get some rest.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in Epping Upland?
There are 8 family-friendly hiking trails in Epping Upland featured in this guide. These routes range from easy strolls to moderate hikes, ensuring options for various ages and fitness levels within the family.
Are there easy routes suitable for families with young children or those seeking a shorter walk?
Yes, Epping Upland offers several easy routes perfect for families with young children or those looking for a less strenuous outing. For example, the Epping Thicks β Quiet Stretch of Epping Forest loop from Epping is an easy 4.5 km walk, and the Epping Thicks loop from Epping is a similar easy option at 4.3 km.
What kind of landscapes can we expect on family hikes in Epping Upland?
Epping Upland is characterized by its ancient woodlands, rolling hills, and a serene network of ponds and streams, all part of the wider Epping Forest. You'll find shaded paths, open grasslands, and picturesque water features like Strawberry Hill Pond, offering a diverse and engaging natural environment for your family adventure.
Are there any circular routes suitable for families?
Many of the family-friendly trails in Epping Upland are circular, making them convenient for families. For instance, the Quiet Stretch of Epping Forest β Epping Thicks loop from Epping is a moderate 10 km circular route, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the family-friendly trails in Epping Upland?
The trails in Epping Upland are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over a thousand reviews. Hikers often praise the beautiful ancient woodlands, the well-maintained paths, and the peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for family outings.
Can we find any interesting natural features or landmarks along the trails?
Absolutely! The region is rich in natural beauty and historical interest. You can explore areas like Strawberry Hill Pond, which offers a lovely spot for a break. The wider Epping Forest itself is an ancient woodland with historical significance and diverse flora and fauna.
Are there longer, more challenging family-friendly options for older children or more active families?
Yes, for families looking for a longer adventure, there are moderate routes available. The Epping Thicks β Epping Forest loop from Epping is a moderate 12.5 km trail, offering a more extended exploration of the forest's scenery and varied terrain.
What is the typical elevation gain on these family-friendly hikes?
The family-friendly hikes in Epping Upland generally feature gentle rolling hills rather than steep climbs. For example, an easy route like the Epping Thicks loop from Epping has an elevation gain of around 33 meters, while moderate routes like the Iris Pond β Epping Thicks loop from Epping have about 116 meters of ascent, making them manageable for most families.
Is Epping Upland a good place for nature observation with children?
Epping Upland, being part of Epping Forest, is an excellent location for nature observation. The ancient woodlands and various ponds provide habitats for diverse wildlife. Keep an eye out for birds, insects, and different tree species, making it a great educational experience for children.
What is the best time of year to go hiking with family in Epping Upland?
Epping Upland offers beautiful hiking experiences year-round. Spring brings vibrant new growth and wildflowers, summer provides lush green canopies and shaded paths, autumn transforms the woodlands with stunning foliage, and even winter offers crisp, quiet walks. The varied terrain and ancient trees make it picturesque in any season.
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