Chingford Plains is a large, open area of grassland on the western edge of Epping Forest in North-East London. Bordered by forest woodland and the residential streets of Chingford, the plains offer sweeping views across the Lea Valley and are a favourite spot for walkers, cyclists, dog owners and families. The open space is part of the ancient Epping Forest, owned and managed by the City of London Corporation.
About Chingford Plains
Chingford Plains has long been one of the most open parts of Epping Forest, kept clear of trees so that it can be used as common land. Today it sits next to the Royal Epping Forest Golf Course and provides a natural gateway between Chingford town centre and the deeper woodland of the forest. From the higher ground you can look out across North London and the Lee Valley, with the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and the City skyline visible in the distance on a clear day.
The plains are a designated part of Epping Forest, one of London’s most important nature reserves, and are protected for their wildlife and landscape value. The mix of open grassland, scrub and woodland edge supports birds, insects and small mammals, making it a pleasant place for a quiet stroll or a family day out.
What to Expect
Visitors to Chingford Plains will find wide, open grassland criss-crossed by footpaths and bridleways, ideal for walking, running and cycling. The flat, open terrain makes it particularly popular with families, kite flyers and dog walkers, while the forest trails leading off the plains offer more challenging terrain for cyclists and horse riders. Several charity cycling events, including the Epping Forest Bike Ride and the Lee Valley Half Century, start from the plains each year.
Facilities in the immediate area include car parking at Chingford Plain car park, plus shops, cafés and toilets a short walk away in Chingford town centre. The Royal Epping Forest Golf Course is adjacent for anyone wanting a round of golf.
Getting There
Chingford Plains is easy to reach by public transport. Chingford railway station (London Overground) is around a 15-minute walk from the plains, with regular trains from Liverpool Street. Several local bus routes serve Chingford town centre, including the 97, 179, 212 and 313. If you are driving, there is parking at Chingford Plain car park and at nearby Rangers Road, with the North Circular and M11 both a short drive away.
The plains are part of London and are fully accessible to pedestrians and cyclists throughout the year.
Good to Know
Entry to Chingford Plains and Epping Forest is free, and the space is open all year round. Dogs are welcome but should be kept under control, particularly during the bird nesting season. There are no on-site toilets at the plains themselves, but public facilities are available in Chingford town centre nearby. The grassland can become muddy after wet weather, so sturdy footwear is recommended in autumn and winter.
For more about the forest and its history, visit the official Epping Forest pages run by the City of London Corporation (cityoflondon.gov.uk).
More Events at Chingford Plains
Chingford Plains is the starting point for popular charity bike rides in aid of Haven House Children’s Hospice, including the family-friendly Epping Forest Bike Ride and the challenging Lee Valley Half Century. Browse all upcoming events in the area on our events overview or discover more things to do in London.
