Almshouse Plain

Wood, Forest in Essex Epping Forest

England

Almshouse Plain

Bury Wood, Epping Forest (1) Credit: Stephen Richards

Almshouse Plain, located in Essex, England, is a picturesque area surrounded by lush woodlands and forests. This serene and tranquil plain is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful getaway.

The plain gets its name from the nearby Almshouse, a historic building that once housed the poor and elderly. The Almshouse, dating back to the 16th century, adds to the charm and character of the area. It stands as a reminder of the charitable work that took place in the past.

The woodlands surrounding Almshouse Plain are diverse and abundant, providing a perfect habitat for a wide variety of flora and fauna. Visitors can explore the forest trails, taking in the beauty of the ancient trees, vibrant wildflowers, and the soothing sounds of birdsong. The forest is particularly enchanting in the autumn, when the leaves change color, creating a stunning tapestry of reds, yellows, and oranges.

Aside from its natural beauty, Almshouse Plain also offers recreational activities such as hiking, picnicking, and wildlife spotting. It is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including deer, foxes, rabbits, and numerous bird species. Birdwatchers can spot herons, owls, and woodpeckers among others.

For those seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of city life, Almshouse Plain, Essex, is the perfect destination. Its idyllic landscape, rich history, and array of outdoor activities make it a must-visit location for anyone seeking solace in nature.

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Almshouse Plain Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 51.648779/0.023369687 or Grid Reference TQ4096. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Bury Wood, Epping Forest (1)

Stephen Richards

Bury Wood, Epping Forest (2)

Stephen Richards

Looking to Waltham Cross from Lippitts Hill

Epping Forest (formerly known as Waltham Forest) is an ancient woodland north-east of London. As a former royal forest dating from the 12th century, it is managed by the City of London Corporation. The forest is 2,476 hectares in area, comprising woodland, grassland and open heath, forming a 19km long green corridor. [abstract from Wikipedia article: Link

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Roger Jones

Chingford Station

On the London Overground.

Chris Allen

Butler's Retreat, Chingford

A coffee shop on the edge of Epping Forest. Listed Grade II. The building on the extreme left is Queen Elizabeth's Hunting Lodge.

Chris Allen

Queen Elizabeth's Hunting Lodge, Chingford

Now a museum and Listed Grade II*. This is an early 16th century hunting lodge and is also a Scheduled Ancient Monument.

Chris Allen

Public house and hotel

The Royal Forest public house and a Premier Inn are co-located here.

Chris Allen

The Owl public house, Loughton

Visited during a walk in Epping Forest. A nice setting and fine inside but not the most architecturally distinguished building.

Chris Allen

Chingford Masonic Hall

The hall was built in the 1930s and features a banqueting hall which can accommodate up to 120 guests. Link

Mark Percy

Butlers Retreat

This restored barn on the edge of Epping Forest is now a cafe.

Mark Percy

Looking down Lippitts Hill, November 2023

The leaves are only now starting to turn in mid November, possibly due to a warm October.

Roger Jones

Connaught Water

The construction of this eight-acre ornamental lake started in 1883. It was enlarged in 1893 and the two islands made. Before this transformation, the area consisted of a small swampy pool fed by the drainage from Hill Wood, Fairmead Bottom and Thicket. The aim of the Conservators in the early days was to drain the Forest to improve it for Commoners' cattle and to increase access safely. The new lake was named after the newly appointed first Ranger of the Forest, the Duke of Connaught. The catchment area of Connaught Water is the woodland and plains northwards to High Beach from where the water is concentrated into two streams entering at the NE and NW corners of the lake.

Stephen Dawson

Horse paddock, High Beach

Looking down off the Epping Forest ridge into the Lea valley

Stephen Dawson

High Beach Church

High Beach Church in Epping Forest.

Alan Fleming

The River Ching

Just about a mile from Chingford I was surprised at how small the river Ching was when I came across it walking section 19 of the London Loop. It is the river that gives Chingford its name.

Claire Ward

The Robin Hood

The Robin Hood roundabout is a major landmark on the Epping New Road, which runs through Epping Forest. For motorists (at least), this might be considered the centre point of the forest.

Eleanor Dann

Earl's Path Pond

This pond is the remains of 19th Century gravel workings. It is beside the Earl's Path and the Three Forests Way. The larger pond further South at Strawberry Hill is more attractive and is surrounded by woodland. Much of the woodland here is not "ancient", but has recovered after clearances.

Eleanor Dann