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A 4 km circuit from Chingford Plain through Bury Wood, following the City of London's Holly Trail. Allow about 1 hour 15 minutes for the walk and a few pauses. Open grassland gives way to woodland tracks and veteran trees, making this a straightforward introduction to this part of Epping Forest.
The start is the Holly Trail path junction on Chingford Plain, east of the Bury Road parking area. Follow the mapped trail south-west towards the car park, then north beside Bury Road to Woodman's Glade. Turn into the Forest and continue along Boundary Ride, past Ludgate Plain and towards Round Thicket. The trail then turns east across the top of Bury Wood before returning south towards Cuckoo Pits and the edge of Chingford Plain. Follow the grassland path back to the starting junction. Follow Holly Trail markers at the woodland junctions; the overlapping Willow Trail continues towards Connaught Water.
Most of the circuit uses surfaced forest tracks, with short grass sections and a gentle incline. It is an easy walking route in dry conditions, but puddles, mud and slippery leaves can slow things down after rain. Wear shoes with grip and choose daylight, allowing enough time to finish before dusk. Stay on the woodland paths beside the road and watch for cyclists and horse riders on shared tracks.
Bury Wood is used by the Forest's conservation cattle. Keep your distance, give livestock room and keep dogs on leads around them. Respect temporary grazing fences and any tree-work closures. Take litter home and leave veteran trees undisturbed.
Chingford Overground station is a short walk from the Plain; this approach is extra to the mapped circuit. Paid Bury Road parking is nearby, with seasonal closing times posted on site. The visitor centre and Butler's Retreat are nearby off the route for toilets and refreshments when open. Bring water and plan a comfort stop before starting.
Route and access information checked on 3 October 2026 against the City of London's Holly Trail map, Bury Wood visitor information and current Forest notices. Source: https://www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/assets/Green-Spaces/holly-trail.pdf
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