How we manage Epping Forest
Epping Forest is one of few large ancient forests in this part of Britain and contains lots of rare or important habitats like ancient semi-natural woodland, wood-pasture, old grassland plains, heathlands, and wetlands.
Each of these habitats is home to different trees, wildlife and even fungi, which together make up a rich mosaic of nature. This also means that each area has very different needs which we carefully manage to make sure they're here and healthy for future generations.
Conservation
Our teams work tirelessly to manage our 8000 acres of forest. Learn about some of our current management strategies below.
Volunteers in Epping Forest
We couldn't look after Epping Forest without our incredible volunteers, who generously give their time to conserving the Forest for future generations. If you'd like to join a volunteer group and help maintain this ancient green space while making new friends, learning new skills and enjoying the great outdoors, explore current opportunities through the link below.
Governance
The City of London Corporation acts as the Conservators of Epping Forest under the Epping Forest Acts 1878 and 1880 as a charitable trust charged with the management and regulation of Epping Forest. In practice, this means that it not only employs more than a hundred members of staff to look after every aspect of the Forest, but that it hosts a dedicated Epping Forest and Commons Committee to govern the Forest, create policy and set strategic direction. You can find more detail on aspects of Forest governance below or catch up on Committee meeting recordings on the City of London Corporation Youtube channel.
The Royal Ranger of Epping Forest
For centuries, Epping Forest was a royal hunting ground. To ensure its preservation the City of London Corporation became Conservators of the Forest in1878 under the Epping Forest Act. The Act maintained some of the Forest’s ancient royal ties, including the Crown’s right to appoint a Ranger.
His Royal Highness The Duke of Gloucester is the current Ranger of Epping Forest, and in 2025 celebrates his golden jubilee in this role.