Description
Epping Forest is one of the best mountain biking options for riders based in or around North London. The terrain is rooty and can get very muddy, with over 284km of shared-use paths running through ancient woodland from East London up to Epping and Theydon Bois in Essex. There are no waymarked MTB routes, but the bridleway network is extensive. Easy to get turned around in, but you are never far from a road. Explore freely, load a GPS route, or hook up with a guided ride.
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The Trails
- All riding at Epping Forest is on natural singletrack. The City of London Corporation, which manages the forest, does not permit the building of jumps, berms or any trail features, and this is byelaw-level policy to protect ecologically sensitive habitats and ancient monuments.
- A good starting point for exploring is High Beach, near the junction of Fairmead Road and Cross Roads. It has a cafe (famous for its bread pudding), parking, toilets, and the King's Oak pub and hotel close by. The Epping Forest Visitor Centre is nearby on Nursery Road.
- When riding, give priority to pedestrians and horse riders, approach corners with caution, and avoid skidding to prevent erosion. Digital KOM and QOM chasing is specifically prohibited under the forest's code of conduct.
- Areas off-limits to cycling include the Iron Age earthworks at Loughton Camp and Ambresbury Banks (both Scheduled Ancient Monuments), Loughton Brook, and the easy access paths at High Beach, Connaught Water, Knighton Wood and Jubilee Pond.
GPS Routes
- A 12km route starts at the south side of Epping Forest near Chingford Station. From the station, turn right up Station Road for 200m then take the second left into Bury Road. The car park entrance is 150m up on the right, opposite a golf course near the A1069 junction.
- MBR's Epping Forest Killer Loop is a 25km circuit, 95% off-road and 90% singletrack. You can find it on AllTrails here. Navigation is tricky so a GPS or OS map is strongly recommended.
- The City of London Corporation cycling page has a permitted cycling areas map and locations of all cycle racks via their interactive map.
Cycle Clubs and Groups
- Epping Forest MTB offer guided rides, skills coaching, MIAS mountain bike leadership training, and a youth MTB club. Booking available on their website.
Getting There
- High Beach is the main hub. Nearest stations are Chingford (Overground) and Loughton (Central line), both within cycling distance of the trails.
- Car parking is available at High Beach and at multiple spots around the forest, including Earl's Path Car Park on Forest Road.
- Bike hire is available from Go Further Cycling, based opposite Chingford Station near the golf course.
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