My visits to Epping Forest began in 1996, when my son started school and joined cubs/scouts and used to visit Suntrap (now The Hive, an outdoor and environment education centre in Waltham Forest).
I used to drop him off and then return later to collect him. I then decided to explore and got lost many times but I really enjoined the peace that I gainedwhen I did this. Also, I didn’t have to deal with the traffic and rushing back to collect him.
I then decided to start going on the trails and enjoying the Forest even more. I began to visit the Forest on my own and really explore on and off trail. This became a monthly regular treat, and it brought me so much peace and aided my mental health.
Wendy with bluebells in Epping Forest
Later on I joined a well-being walking group who come to the Forest and other areas, and they were all keen gardeners. They could identify trees, wild life and plants, and also spoke about biodiversity in the Forest. I did not have a clue what they were talking about so I decided to go on a Horticulture course which I completed in 2022 over 3 months. Now I was able to engage with the group which boosted my moral.
I began growing my own herbs and became very successful to the point I gave away a lot to the Hornbeam Centre.
I attended Epping Forest Big Walk in September 2022 and met Neal, the walk leader, on a walk in the Olympic Park. So far, I have completed 3 Big Walks and love it!
I attended the Night Walk on the 25th of October 2024 organised by EFHT. This was very special for me as it was also the first anniversary of my husband’s Passing, and I just felt at one with the wildlife community and mother earth and all it entails. It was surreal especially when we turned off all lights. I just felt at one and safe. This group is so supportive. I would do this walk again.