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Last updated: 5 November 2025
Next review: 23 October 2026
From Saturday 21 June to Sunday 6 July 2025, the past was brought to life to celebrate the rich history and culture of North Chingford during the first ever North Chingford Heritage Festival.
Situated on the edge of the beautiful and sprawling Epping Forest, settled over one thousand years ago during the Saxon period and listed in the ‘Domesday Book of 1086’, North Chingford is the perfect blend of old and new with its independent High Street and historical landmarks.
The town is rich in history with charming shops and places to eat, as well as well-preserved heritage buildings, including the Grade two listed Queen Elizabeth Hunting Lodge built in 1543, and is the gateway to ancient Epping Forest, often referred to as the ‘Lungs of London’. Epping Forest is home to 55’000 ancient trees (more than any other single site in the country) spread over six thousand acres and was dedicated by Queen Victoria ‘for the enjoyment of my people forever’.
The first North Chingford Heritage Festival celebrated the fascinating past of this area, its buildings and the famous characters connected to the town, including Henry VIII, Elizabeth I, Walt Disney, Laurence of Arabia and Queen Victoria.
There were Heritage Bus Tours, Walks, Talks, Open Houses, Heritage Train Rides, Children’s Craft, Theatre, Film, Song, Windrush Day Events, Museum Exhibitions, Art Exhibitions, a Plein Air, an Author Event and much more, all focused on this wondrous place and its people, during the 16 day programme.
Short film which documents some of the activities which took place during the North Chingford Heritage Festival
Prior to the festival launch Cllr Rosalind Doré, Cabinet Member for Libraries, Culture and Sports and Leisure, said:
‘I’m truly excited for the first ever North Chingford Heritage Festival happening this summer. It’s a fantastic opportunity for everyone to come together to celebrate our rich local heritage and learn about North Chingford’s fascinating past. Whether you’re exploring traditions, spending time with family and friends or meeting new neighbours, this festival is all about connection, pride and unity’.
The festival programme was developed in partnership between the council's Regeneration team, Chingford Historical Society, Friends of Pimp Hall Nature Reserve, Chingford Amateur Dramatics and Operatic Society (CADOS), Love North Chingford and the Love North Chingford Art Group.
If you would like to be involved in the next North Chingford Heritage Festival email ian.martin@walthamforest.gov.uk