Epping Forest's Autumn Colours (16 or 11 miles)

"Theirs not to reason why"

The anniversary of Balaclava in 1854 offers reason enough to enjoy the exceptional autumn colours of Epping Forest, and its viewpoints overlooking happy autumn fields. Alfred Tennyson who penned these immortal words lived beside the forest - the walk's viewpoints overlook his house.

As well as nature's poetry of autumn trees are the historic sights of Queen Elizabeth I's hunting lodge, and Waltham Abbey, where it's possible to say hello to King Harold.

There are two walk options, both accessible by Travelcard and Contactless travel. Join the walk's start at Enfield Lock, or if wanting an easier day the walk may be joined at Chingford station at 11.30am

Lunch pub / cafe stop at High Beach. Late afternoon village / pub stop at Waltham Abbey, with the option to visit the Abbey (free)

Last word to Tennyson: "In looking on the happy autumn fields, And thinking of the days that are no more."

16 MILES TRAVEL DETAILS
The 9.12 train from Liverpool Street arrives at ENFIELD LOCK (Zone 6) at 9.34 AM. Walk starts from Enfield Lock at 9.35 AM

11 MILES TRAVEL DETAILS
The train departing 11.03 AM from London Liverpool Street to CHINGFORD (Zone 5) will arrive in time to join the walk at 11.30 AM from CHINGFORD rail station.

Walk ends at ENFIELD LOCK (Zone 6) with regular trains to London Liverpool Street. Oyster contactless & travelcards cover all travel.

How to join?

• The walk is entirely free of charge;
• You only arrange for your own travel and pub expenses;
• Understand our terms and conditions below (the "IMPORTANT" part);
• Understand how to stay safe outdoors, as you will be responsible for yourself. See our quick safety tips:

https://www.meetup.com/Free-Outdoor-Trips-From-London/about/

What to bring

• Plenty of water, 1-2 litres recommended
• Enough snacks and packed lunch to keep you energized along the walk
• Extra snacks and an extra packed lunch just in case
• Rainproof (ideally waterproof) clothing, sturdy shoes/boots you don't mind getting muddy
• Spare socks
• Walking poles and/or an umbrella :-)
• Yourself...
• ...and your camera!
• Cash for train ticket
• Cash for pub at the end of the walk?

Feel free to ask any questions in the comments section!

IMPORTANT

Please bear in mind this is a free of charge, self-guided trip with a hobby group. It is not organized by a business nor any entity with commercial purposes.

Any trip details, travel advice, route planning, instructions and other content in our group merely represent our shared personal knowledge, research and suggestions as outdoor enthusiasts. As this is no business, there is no "product", "service" or "package" and also no "tour guide", "operator" or "walk leader".

Each participant is responsible for their own safety. Even if some of us are very experienced walking outdoors, nobody assumes responsibility for any kind of injury, damage or loss that may happen.

By participating you acknowledge and agree with this disclaimer.

Here are our tips on staying safe during outdoor trips:

https://www.meetup.com/Free-Outdoor-Trips-From-London/about/

TRAVEL, ACCOMMODATION, INSURANCE

Although we provide detailed suggestions, each participant is expected to arrange their own travel - this gives everyone the freedom and choice. Anyone interested in travel or outdoor insurance should also arrange this on their own. As mentioned above we always take extreme precautions, but some people may still feel safer if covered.

As most of our trips are confirmed or postponed very close to the event date - heavily depending on the weather forecasts - we advise not to buy this until the last minute. People getting tickets from the same station are encouraged to meet early on the day to benefit from discounts such as GroupSave.