Epping Forest : PMO EXPLORERS 004

Epping Forest. Just a 20-minute train ride from Liverpool Street.

Though when you ask most people, they assume it’s much further away.
That’s part of why we started organising these hikes: to bring people together in outdoor spaces not so far from their front doors. Living in the city, it’s easy to forget how quickly you can escape for a breath of fresh air, especially in London.

I myself arrived about ten minutes late to find a corner already filled with both people and dogs. There were new faces, old friends, family members, and, of course, a few wagging tails all ready for the walk. It was nice to see an array of our Breeze Jackets present, in all colours available.

Although attendance isn’t the main focus of these hikes, it was a genuinely uplifting feeling to see the group growing. It’s a small but powerful reminder that more and more people are recognising the value of stepping away from the city’s noise and finding relaxation in exploration.

The trail itself wasn’t too challenging, a gentle mix of woodland paths, open clearings, and ancient trees that have stood watch for centuries. There was a calmness to the forest that morning: a soft breeze through the canopy, dappled sunlight on the ground, and the steady rhythm of footsteps and conversation. It was unusual because Epping Forest is usually quite busy on a Saturday morning, but this day felt like we had it all to ourselves.

As we made our way deeper into the woods, the noise of the city disappeared entirely, replaced by birdsong and the occasional crack of twigs underfoot. Some chose to walk quietly, taking in the surroundings; others chatted away, making new connections or catching up with old ones.

That’s the beauty of these days, they’re whatever you need them to be.

Halfway around, we made a stop at the Tea Hut, a legendary spot for anyone who’s walked these woods, it was famous for Bikers to stop here and tuck into a bacon roll or sausage sandwich. Hidden away at the side of the road, the Tea Hut has been serving tired walkers for decades. With hot drinks in hand, we sat for a while, swapping stories, fussing the dogs, and just enjoying a proper pause before heading back onto the trail.

By the time we looped back towards our starting point, the group felt lighter, more at ease. Some headed straight home, others stayed behind for a drink and a few more laughs. At around 3 hours, it wasn’t a long hike, nor a particularly tough one, but that wasn’t the point.

The point was stepping outside, even if just for a few hours, and reminding ourselves that these spaces are here, close, accessible, and always ready to welcome us.

Until next time. Keep May 17th Open and an eye on our socials for updates on location.