Queen Elizabeth's Hunting Lodge

Tudor grandstand and the only remaining timber-framed Standing in Britain.

Well and truly off the beaten track, this timber-framed hunting lodge is hidden away in Epping Forest, perched on the edge of London. Henry VIII commissioned the construction of the grandstand in 1543 as a base from which he could watch or participate in a spot of deer hunting. There is, however, no firm evidence that the king actually visited the lodge – he would have been 51 years-old when it was completed. Having said this, legend has it that Queen Elizabeth I, in a typically dramatic gesture, once rode her white horse up the steps of the grandstand. Rather than regularly playing host to royal visitors, it’s more likely that the grandstand was used by visiting foreign dignitaries and noblemen.

Nowadays, Queen Elizabeth’s Hunting Lodge plays host to regular events and activities – many of them aimed at families and young children. This Tudor treat is still surrounded by some extraordinary ancient woodland and overlooks the old hunting field for which it was originally designed. Visitors can explore the Tudor kitchen and the King's shooting gallery, admire the ornate ceiling which inspired a young William Morris or simply breathe in the rural views. A peaceful haven, it remains the only timber-framed standing left in England, an excellent example of Tudor carpentry and an excellent example of London’s hidden royal retreats.

Best for:
Henry VIII, history, hunting, woods and views.

Did you know?
The Willingale Axe, used by Thomas Willingdale in 1860 to lop branches from the trees of the forest in a bid to asserted his ancient rights, is kept at the lodge.