Attractions and Places To See around Chigwell - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Chigwell include a blend of historical sites, natural landscapes, and recreational activities. Located in the Epping Forest District of Essex, adjacent to Greater London, the area offers a countryside feel with convenient access. Visitors can explore ancient woodlands, nature reserves, and significant landmarks. The region provides diverse options for outdoor enthusiasts and those interested in local history.
Best attractions and places to see around Chigwell
- The most popular attractions is Mott Street Climb, Epping Forest, a cycle_way known for being a challenging ascent. It is recognized as one of the UK's top 100 Climbs, featuring a well-surfaced stretch with a 12% gradient.
- Another must-see spot is The Greenway (London), a trail offering long, easy riding through East London with no traffic. Visitors can expect good surfaces and views, especially when riding from east to west at sunset.
- Visitors also love Wake Road Through Epping Forest, a trail that provides a quiet country road experience with minimal traffic. It serves as a route through the forest, leading towards the Essex countryside.
- Chigwell is known for its historical landmarks, extensive natural features like Epping Forest, and various recreational activities. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient churches to modern entertainment venues.
- The attractions around Chigwell are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 360 upvotes and 21 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: April 24, 2026
Mott Street Climb, Epping Forest
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
Studying the topography, it's a surprise to find such a tough ascent in this area, (there are many shorter hills around), but Mott Street is a a proper climb. Begin your ascent at the broken bridleway marker just off the A112. The road bends left, passing the junction to Lipits Hill, and then rises.
A tough opening section flattens where you reach the farm buildings on both sides of the road. A strong whiff of manure is just what you need to propel you up the following lump onto the hardest section. The well-surfaced stretch with a 12% gradient winds past large gated properties on both sides, levelling slightly halfway up. The final sector heads into tree cover and the brow comes opposite a bridleway, after which there are just a few hundred meters of false flat before the climb ends at the junction of Church Road.
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Walthamstow Wetlands Canal and Lock
Highlight • River
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Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park
Highlight • Cycleway
There are lots of cycle paths to explore the area, but take care of pedestrians and other cyclists.
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The Greenway (London)
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Wake Road Through Epping Forest
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Tips from the Community
"The Greenway" in London refers primarily to the Northern Outfall Sewer, a Victorian sewer now used as the Greenway cycle and footpath. It is a historic structure, built by Joseph Bazalgette following the Great Stink of 1858, and functions as part of a larger sewage infrastructure.
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Just a short hop from Central London, this 520-acre (211 ha) wetland is a treat for wildlife enthusiasts and those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. These reservoirs provide drinking water for around 3.5 million people every day. Cyclists are welcome on the designated paths but be aware that pedestrians have priority here.
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Pedestrian-friendly and an enjoyable route / Greenway to cycle with children, linking Beckton with Victoria Park. Connections via canal towpaths for the River Lea, Regents, Grand Union Canal, and The Limbouse Cut.
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Walthamstow Wetlands is a 521-acre (211 ha) site comprising ten reservoirs that provide drinking water for London. It's so close to the centre of the town that only cycling is possible to understand how easy is to reach the reservoirs for a small city escape.
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A very nice track with a good surface. Pleasant to drive with lots of variety.
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Great quality surface, quiet traffic and beautiful scenery around you as you go through Epping Forest. A really great road to ride on.
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Be careful narrow road, some people drive without driving licenses, they don't know the highway code and don't bother slowing down for cyclists!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical landmarks can I visit in Chigwell?
Chigwell boasts several historical sites. You can explore Ye Olde King's Head, a 17th-century coaching inn famously linked to Charles Dickens' *Barnaby Rudge*. The 12th-century St Mary's Church features an intact Norman doorway, and Chigwell School, founded in 1629, still has its original 17th-century schoolroom where William Penn was taught.
Where can I find natural beauty and green spaces near Chigwell?
The area around Chigwell is rich in natural beauty. You can visit the Roding Valley Meadows Local Nature Reserve, which follows the River Roding and offers diverse wildlife habitats. Chigwell Row Wood is a remnant of ancient Hainault Forest, and the vast Epping Forest is directly accessible, offering extensive woodlands and trails like Wake Road Through Epping Forest.
Are there good places for cycling around Chigwell?
Yes, Chigwell is excellent for cycling. You can challenge yourself on Mott Street Climb, Epping Forest, known as one of the UK's top 100 Climbs. For a more relaxed ride, The Greenway (London) offers long, traffic-free paths with good surfaces. You can also find numerous routes through the forest, such as Wake Road Through Epping Forest. For more options, explore the Road Cycling Routes around Chigwell guide.
What family-friendly activities are available in Chigwell?
Families can enjoy Hainault Forest Country Park, which offers adventure play areas, nature trails, and even train rides. It also includes Foxburrow Farm, a free attraction with various wildlife habitats. For a modern entertainment option, Topgolf Chigwell provides a high-tech driving range experience with food and drinks.
Are there opportunities for hiking or running near Chigwell attractions?
Absolutely. The proximity to Epping Forest and various nature reserves provides ample opportunities for hiking and running. You can explore the Chigwell Country Walk for local countryside exploration. For specific routes, check out the Running Trails around Chigwell guide, which includes routes like the Hainault Forest loop.
Where can I experience the local social scene or find a traditional pub?
Chigwell has traditional pubs that offer a glimpse into local social life. You can visit The King William IV or The Two Brewers for a classic pub experience.
What is unique about the cycling challenges in the Chigwell area?
The Chigwell area, particularly within Epping Forest, offers notable cycling challenges. Mott Street Climb, Epping Forest is a prime example, recognized as one of the UK's top 100 Climbs. It features a well-surfaced stretch with a 12% gradient, providing a tough ascent for cyclists.
Can I find mountain biking trails near Chigwell?
Yes, there are mountain biking opportunities. Epping Forest, adjacent to Chigwell, is a popular spot for MTB. You can find various trails suitable for different skill levels. For detailed routes, refer to the MTB Trails around Chigwell guide, which lists options like the Epping Forest Loop.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see in the nature reserves around Chigwell?
The nature reserves like Roding Valley Meadows Local Nature Reserve and Chigwell Row Wood are home to varied wildlife. These areas support diverse habitats, offering opportunities for birdwatching and spotting local flora and fauna typical of English countryside and ancient woodlands.
Are there any golf courses in or very close to Chigwell?
Golf enthusiasts have options in the area. You can visit Chigwell Golf Club, or nearby, Woolston Manor Golf Club features a par 72 championship course with water hazards on 12 holes.
What are some less crowded natural spots to visit near Chigwell?
While Epping Forest can be popular, exploring areas like Chigwell Row Wood or specific sections of the Roding Valley Meadows Local Nature Reserve might offer a quieter experience. These local nature reserves provide peaceful environments for enjoying nature away from larger crowds.
What is the architectural significance of Chigwell Station?
Chigwell Station, built in 1903 by the Great Eastern Railway, is notable for its stylish architecture. It serves as an interesting point of interest for those appreciating historical railway buildings and its role on the Central Line of the London Underground.
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