Epping Forest & Greensted Saxon Church Loop
Ancient beech woods, the world's oldest wooden church, and Essex lanes
Distance: 38 km (23.6 miles) | Estimated Duration: 2.5 hours | Difficulty: Moderate
Starting Point: Chingford Station | Finishing Point: Chingford Station (Loop)
📥 Download Free GPX Route File (Garmin, Wahoo, Strava, Komoot)
Ride Overview & Terrain
This classic ride leaves Chingford Station through the heart of Epping Forest via Queen Elizabeth's Hunting Lodge. Wind north along quiet, undulating Essex country lanes through High Beach and Toot Hill, pause to admire the incredible split-oak log walls of Greensted Church (built c. 1060), and loop through historic Chipping Ongar before returning through the forest.
Ride from London's ancient royal woodland out into rural Essex country lanes to visit Greensted Church, the world's oldest wooden building.
Travel & Getting There with Your Bike
By Train: Take the London Overground from Liverpool Street or Walthamstow Central straight to Chingford. Bicycles permitted off-peak. (Nearest station: Chingford Station (London Overground), travel time: 27 mins from Liverpool Street).
By Car & Parking: Cycle-friendly parking available near the start point.
Cyclist Coffee Stops, Cafes & Pubs
Recommended cyclist-friendly cafes and refreshment stops along Epping Forest & Greensted Saxon Church Loop:
- ☕ The Original Tea Hut, High Beach: Popular refreshment stop for cyclists.
- ☕ The Cock Tavern, Ongar: Popular refreshment stop for cyclists.
Cycling Tips & Route Advice
- Undulating country lanes with a few short climbs; road bikes and hybrids are ideal.
- Combine with a brief stop to see the heritage Epping Ongar steam railway.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the distance, duration, and difficulty of Epping Forest & Greensted Saxon Church Loop?
Epping Forest & Greensted Saxon Church Loop is a 38 km (23.6 miles) taking approximately 2.5 hours, graded Moderate. Starts at Chingford Station and finishes at Chingford Station (Loop).
How do I get to Epping Forest & Greensted Saxon Church Loop by train?
Take the London Overground from Liverpool Street or Walthamstow Central straight to Chingford. Bicycles permitted off-peak. (Nearest station: Chingford Station (London Overground), travel time: 27 mins from Liverpool Street).
Where can I park near the start of Epping Forest & Greensted Saxon Church Loop?
Cycle-friendly parking available near the start point.
More Scenic UK Cycle Rides
Olympic Box Hill Loop • The Crab and Winkle Way • The Windsor Castle Ride • The Kent Castles Loop