Epping Forest Oak Trail

Ancient woodlands and deer sanctuary right on the Tube

Route Overview

The Oak Trail is a lovely marked trail through the northern part of Epping Forest. Created by the City of London, it winds through ancient pollarded beech and oak woodlands that date back to the Anglo-Saxon period. It offers a perfect escape from city noise, crossing green pastures, passing the buffer land commons, and skirting a dedicated deer sanctuary where you can catch sights of dark-colored Fallow Deer.

Travel & Getting There from London Victoria

By Train: Take the Victoria Line northbound to Oxford Circus, transfer to the Central Line eastbound directly to Theydon Bois Station. (Station: Theydon Bois Station (Central Line), duration: 50 - 60 mins from London Victoria).

By Bus: Take the Central Line replacement / local bus 418 or regional coach towards Epping/Loughton from Stratford bus terminal. (1h 30m - 1h 45m from London Victoria)

By Car & Parking: Nearest car park is Theydon Bois Station Car Park (CM16 7EY) / Jack's Hill Car Park. Drive time from London Victoria is approx 55m - 1h 15m from London Victoria (21.5 miles via A11, A12 East & M11 North (J5)). From London Victoria, drive east through the city via A11/A12, join the M11 northbound, take Exit 5 (Loughton), and follow the A1168/Coppice Row to Theydon Bois.

Trailside Cafes & Historic Country Pubs

Refreshment and dining stops located along or near the Epping Forest Oak Trail trail:

• ☕ The Butler's Retreat: Traditional pub and refreshment stop for walkers.
• ☕ The Bull, Theydon Bois: Traditional pub and refreshment stop for walkers.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I travel to Epping Forest Oak Trail from London?

Take the Victoria Line northbound to Oxford Circus, transfer to the Central Line eastbound directly to Theydon Bois Station. (Station: Theydon Bois Station (Central Line), duration: 50 - 60 mins from London Victoria).

Where is the closest car park for Epping Forest Oak Trail?

Nearest car park is Theydon Bois Station Car Park (CM16 7EY) / Jack's Hill Car Park. Drive time from London Victoria is approx 55m - 1h 15m from London Victoria (21.5 miles via A11, A12 East & M11 North (J5)). From London Victoria, drive east through the city via A11/A12, join the M11 northbound, take Exit 5 (Loughton), and follow the A1168/Coppice Row to Theydon Bois.

How long is the hike and what is the terrain difficulty?

Epping Forest Oak Trail covers 10.6 km (6.6 miles) with an estimated duration of 2.5 - 3 hours, graded as Easy. Starts at Loughton Station and finishes at Theydon Bois Station.