Nearby towns: take your pick
Thornwood Park is perfectly located, with an abundance of villages and towns close by – each one offering something different.
To the south lie the leafy market town of Epping and Ongar. These two destinations are linked by the Epping Ongar Heritage Railway, travelling through North Weald Bassett which boasrs a museum and weekly outdoor market on a former Battle of Britain airfield which is still active today.
From Waltham Abbey to Loughton, the district’s high street have wonderfully different personalities and their wealth of local independent shops set them apart. Perfect for a relaxing stroll, a catch-up with friends at a cafe and shopping in abudance, from market bargains to designer wear and interiors. It’s all waiting for you to explore.
Food, fun and ‘for the kids’
Dining options abound in Epping. Haywards sits proudly in the Michelin guide, servingseasonal dishes in a converted stable – and it’s just nine minutes away by car. Forest Bar & Kitchen sereves high regarded Mediterranean cuisine, while Yakimono offers a Japanese menue designed for sharing. Other highlights include Coho Brasserie in Harlow and Quindici (Italian classics with a modern twists) in Loughton. Plus, The Cart Shed is on your doorstep in Thornwood – delight in wood-fired locally farmed food.
Looking for an active lifestyle? Enjoy a round of golf at Epping Golf Club or head to Topgolf in Chigwell with a group of friends. Choose from various leisure centres in the area or
make the most of Epping Forest – its 284km of shared-use paths are perfect for a long walk or bike ride.
There’s so much for youngsters to enjoy. Lee Valley Animal Adventure Park in Waltham Abbey is home to meerkats, wallabies and more, and hosts events year-round. Thrill seekers in the family? Nuclear High Ropes is jsut a 20-minute drive away in Kelvedon Hatch.