Hatfield Forest is an ancient royal hunting forest, and considered to be one of the best-preserved medieval forests in the world. In the past, deer were kept in the forest for hunting. Today you'll find deer aplenty still, though no longer pursued for the same reason.

The forest boasts ancient trees, over 3,500 species of fungi, rare insects and a diverse array of birdlife. There's also a beautiful lake, café and river that meanders through.

Sasha Taylor

August 17, 2021

Hiking

Hatfield Forest is a 403.2 hectare biological Site of Special Scientific Interest in Essex, three miles east of Bishop's Stortford. It is also a National Nature Reserve and a Nature …

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Best routes to Hatfield Forest Lake

5.0

(7)

hikers

1. Hatfield Forest Lake – Hatfield Forest Cafe loop from Takeley Street

10.9km

02:48

50m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

5.0

(1)

hikers

2. Hatfield Forest Lake – Hatfield Forest Cafe loop from Takeley

19.5km

05:02

100m

Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Hard

5.0

(2)

hikers

3. Hatfield Forest Lake – Hatfield Forest Cafe loop from Elgin Coppice

7.25km

01:52

30m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Easy

Details

Informations

Elevation 90 m

Weather

Today

Wednesday 11 February

12°C

6°C

41 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 23.0 km/h

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Location: Hatfield Broad Oak, Uttlesford, Essex, East Of England, England, United Kingdom

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Hatfield Forest Lake

1. Hatfield Forest Lake – Hatfield Forest Cafe loop from Takeley Street

2. Hatfield Forest Lake – Hatfield Forest Cafe loop from Takeley

3. Hatfield Forest Lake – Hatfield Forest Cafe loop from Elgin Coppice

Other Popular Places to Check Out

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