Queen Elizabeth's Hunting Lodge
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Queen Elizabeth's Hunting Lodge London

4.5
·429 reviews·, United Kingdom

Step into Tudor England at this historic royal hunting lodge, once frequented by Henry VIII and Queen Elizabeth I. Free entry!

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekends

Staff are available to share history

CrowdMedium
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Queen Elizabeth's Hunting Lodge

Queen Elizabeth's Hunting Lodge London

Best Time

Weekends

Staff are available to share history

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step into Tudor England at this historic royal hunting lodge, once frequented by Henry VIII and Queen Elizabeth I. Free entry!

4.5
(429 reviews)

"Well worth visiting, an excellently-explained historic building and its royal use in Henry VIII/Elizabethan times. Reddit"

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TIP

🎯 Free Entry & Parking

Enjoy free admission to the lodge and find convenient parking opposite. A great budget-friendly historical outing!

🌳 Explore Epping Forest

After your lodge visit, take a walk in the adjacent Epping Forest for a complete historical and natural experience.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Tudor Royal History

Tudor Royal History

Walk the halls where Henry VIII and Queen Elizabeth I once stayed and hunted. Experience centuries of royal history firsthand.

Epping Forest Views

Epping Forest Views

Enjoy picturesque views from the lodge, overlooking the expansive and historic Epping Forest.

Interactive Exhibits

Interactive Exhibits

See examples of historical food, clothing, and learn about the lodge's past through engaging displays.

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Planning Your Visit

Step Back in Time

Explore a genuine Tudor hunting lodge, built for Henry VIII and frequented by Queen Elizabeth I. Discover its royal history and the surrounding Epping Forest. Free entry makes it an accessible historical gem.

Forest & Lodge Combo

Combine your visit to the lodge with a refreshing walk in Epping Forest. The lodge offers insights into royal hunting traditions, while the forest provides a natural escape.

Best Times

When
Weekends
Why
Staff are available to share history
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Quieter exploration
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Last week I went for a run to Epping Forest to see this Tudor hidden gem, Queen Elizabeth’s Hunting Lodge 🏃🏻‍♂️ Let me know if you have been here in the comments below 👇 . . . . . . . . . . #queenelizabeth #henryviii #thetudors #kingsandqueens #eppingforest #londontiktok #visitlondon #running #history
@historicalrunner
90 likes • 2K views

🎯 Free Entry & Parking

Enjoy free admission to the lodge and find convenient parking opposite. A great budget-friendly historical outing! Reddit

🌳 Explore Epping Forest

After your lodge visit, take a walk in the adjacent Epping Forest for a complete historical and natural experience. Reddit

To Queen Elizabeth’s hunting lodge. Where she hunted deer in Tudor times. 🦌 Epping Forest#EcoFriendly #SaveOurPlanet #NatureWalk #NatureDaily #NatureShot #DiscoverEarth #Naturelnspo #NatureTikTok #exploring #beautifullondon🇬🇧 #nature #peace #relaxingtherapy #NorthLondon #calm #outdoor #
@stickperson5
21 likes • 330 views
Giorno 2 a Londra. Ho visitato la Residenza di caccia della regina Elisabetta, purtroppo la parte delle esposizioni l’ho trovata chiusa ci tornerò a visitare il resto doman, questa residenza Si trova a chingfort. Una tribuna da caccia con struttura in legno costruita nel 1543 per Enrico VIII, la residenza di caccia della regina Elisabetta si trova in una bellissima parte della foresta di Epping. ...
@alketa.studio
34 likes • 1.4K views

🗣️ Chat with Staff

Friendly staff are happy to share detailed history and insights about the lodge and its royal visitors. Reddit

🧸 Kids' Dressing Up

Little ones can enjoy the dressing-up table, adding a fun, interactive element to the visit. Reddit

#chingford #history #queenelizabethhuntinglodge #henryviii #todaysdiary #epping #greaterlondon #essex #queenelizabethshuntinglodge #uk #englishcountryside #therudors #elizabethan
@user7917620623748
2 likes • 491 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Free Entry & Parking

Enjoy free admission to the lodge and find convenient parking opposite. A great budget-friendly historical outing! Reddit

🌳 Explore Epping Forest

After your lodge visit, take a walk in the adjacent Epping Forest for a complete historical and natural experience. Reddit

🗣️ Chat with Staff

Friendly staff are happy to share detailed history and insights about the lodge and its royal visitors. Reddit

🧸 Kids' Dressing Up

Little ones can enjoy the dressing-up table, adding a fun, interactive element to the visit. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(429 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Queen Elizabeth's Hunting Lodge for its free entry and the fascinating insights into Tudor royal history and hunting traditions. The friendly staff and the opportunity to explore the adjacent Epping Forest are also frequently highlighted as major positives. Some visitors note that while the lodge itself is compact, the historical context and natural surroundings make for a worthwhile visit.

"Well worth visiting, an excellently-explained historic building and it's royal use in Henry VIII/Elizabethan times and their hunting visits to Epping Forest. Fascinating to wander the same rooms and climb the same stairs they both may have done. Dressing up table for kids. Free entry, car park opposite, visitor centre, shop and toilets. Recommended."

Ian Ferris

"Historical place, well kept. Staff at visitors centre is very welcoming, polite and cooperative."

S Ahmad

"Historic building on the edge of Epping Forest. Wonderful views. A great place to take visiting family from USA."

Dime

What People Like

Free entry
Royal history insights
Epping Forest access

What People Dislike

Can be small

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The lodge is located on the edge of Epping Forest. There is a car park opposite the lodge. Public transport options may require further research depending on your starting point in London.

Yes, there is a car park located directly opposite the Queen Elizabeth's Hunting Lodge, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to Queen Elizabeth's Hunting Lodge is free, making it an accessible historical attraction for everyone. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check the official website or local listings before your visit to confirm current times.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can explore the historic rooms, learn about Tudor royal hunting traditions, see examples of period clothing and food, and enjoy views of Epping Forest. There's also a dressing-up area for children. Reddit

Yes, the lodge is suitable for children, with interactive elements like a dressing-up table and engaging historical displays. Reddit

Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions on the day of your visit.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a place called Butlers restaurant nearby where you can get something to eat after your visit. Reddit Additionally, the visitor centre may offer refreshments.

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the historic architecture of the lodge itself, the scenic views of Epping Forest from its windows, and any interesting interior exhibits. The exterior against the forest backdrop is particularly picturesque.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Queen Elizabeth's Hunting Lodge is a fantastic outing for families. Entry is free, and there's a dedicated dressing-up table that children love, allowing them to step into historical roles. Reddit The exhibits on Tudor food and clothing are also engaging for younger visitors, making history tangible and fun. The adjacent Epping Forest offers plenty of space for kids to run around and explore after a visit to the lodge. Reddit

Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy in Epping Forest, making it a full day of affordable family fun. The staff are friendly and can often share interesting stories that capture children's imaginations. It's a great way to introduce kids to history in a relaxed and accessible environment.

🚶 Budget Travelers

This lodge is a dream for budget-conscious travelers as admission is completely free. Reddit You can explore a significant piece of royal history without spending a penny on entry fees. Parking is also available opposite the lodge, and while there might be a small charge, it's generally reasonable. Reddit

Combine your visit with a walk in the free-to-access Epping Forest and pack your own lunch or snacks. For dining, Butlers restaurant is nearby, offering a place to eat, but you can easily make this a self-catered trip to keep costs down. It’s a perfect example of a rich historical experience that doesn’t break the bank.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Royal Retreat: History of the Lodge

Queen Elizabeth's Hunting Lodge, originally built by Henry VIII in 1543, served as a royal hunting base within the vast Epping Forest. It was a place for monarchs and their courts to stay while pursuing game in the surrounding woodlands. The lodge's three-storey structure is a testament to Tudor architecture, offering a glimpse into the lifestyle of the era. Visitors can imagine the bustling activity of royal hunts and the leisurely pursuits that took place within these historic walls. Reddit

Later, Queen Elizabeth I also frequented the lodge, continuing the tradition of royal hunting. The building has been preserved and maintained, allowing modern visitors to walk through the same spaces that royalty once occupied. The lodge provides context for the historical significance of Epping Forest as a royal hunting ground, connecting the natural landscape to centuries of British history. Reddit

Inside, exhibits showcase aspects of Tudor life, including examples of the food they ate and the clothing they wore. This immersive experience helps bring the history of the lodge and its royal inhabitants to life, making it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts and families alike. The staff are often on hand to share more detailed historical anecdotes, enriching the visitor experience. Reddit

Exploring Epping Forest

Adjacent to the Queen Elizabeth's Hunting Lodge lies the expansive Epping Forest, a protected ancient woodland managed by the City of London. This forest offers a stark contrast to the historical architecture of the lodge, providing a natural escape and opportunities for outdoor recreation. Visitors can embark on numerous walking trails, ranging from short strolls to longer hikes, immersing themselves in the diverse flora and fauna of the woodland. Reddit

The forest is a haven for wildlife and boasts a rich biodiversity, with ancient trees, open glades, and varied terrain. It's an ideal location for birdwatching, picnicking, or simply enjoying a peaceful walk amidst nature. The proximity of the lodge to the forest makes it easy to combine a historical visit with an invigorating outdoor adventure, offering a well-rounded day out. Reddit

Combining a visit to the lodge with a walk in Epping Forest provides a comprehensive experience of the area's heritage, both human and natural. The lodge offers a window into the past, while the forest provides a connection to the enduring natural landscape that has been a backdrop to this history for centuries. It's a perfect pairing for those looking to explore London's green spaces and historical sites.