15.9.2018 Section 14
in July and August it was simply far too hot. But now, in September, I have finally managed to walk another section.
Saturday morning, still a bit cloudy, but the weather-forecast is very good. Hence: off I go.
Starting point “Enfield Lock” Station
from where after a few minutes walk one reaches the lock
with the remaining buildings of the old Royal Small-arms Factory where the Lee Enfield guns have been produced.
Heading on the path follows the Lee Navigation a wonderful spot of green and river.
Following the river one reaches the Sewardstone Marsh Nature Reserve.
Despite the fact that it was Saturday I met very few walkers enjoying the tranquility.
Slowly the path climbs up-hill where one is greeted with a fantastic view of the King George Reservoir which
supplies about a quarter of London’s water.
Heading on one reaches the outlying parcels of Epping Forest and finally Gilwell Park. This former farm was donated
to the Scout Association in 1919 as a campsite and is now the their HQ.
Following the path one reaches Chingford, a small London village, in Epping Forest.
Henry VIII build here in 1543 for his then wife Queen Elizabeth a Hunting Lodge.
Unfortunately the building is currently covered in scaffolding for restoration purposes.
Just next door is is Butler’s Retreat, a Victorian Tea Room dating back to 1891.
Established at the time that the London day trippers could get a refreshment.
Nothing has changed !
Heading on and passing through Epping Forest with it dense forest is also blessed with beautiful vistas of London:
Unfortunately this comes to an end when the M11 needs to be crossed.
Walking along a busy road the end of todays walk Chigwell Station is reached.
So this leaves me with just two more segments of the London Loop.
Some more pictures of this section can be found here and a map with todays waypoints can be found here
This concludes the 14.section: 8 miles, 23 3/4 miles still to go.
