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The History of The Royal Forest Hotel

Nestled in the heart of East London on Ranger’s Road, The Royal Forest Hotel holds a special place in the history of Chingford and Epping Forest.

The Forest Hotel

Originally named The Forest Hotel, this historic building has roots that stretch back to the late 19th century.

Its story began in 1878 when the City Lands Committee offered an 80-year building lease on land next to the famous Hunting Lodge.

Mr and Mrs Frederick Gordon, who saw potential in the growing popularity of the area, took up the lease, and The Forest Hotel was built.

The hotel officially opened its doors in 1880, providing a comfortable retreat for visitors who flocked to the area after the opening of the nearby Chingford Station.

Edmond Egan

Designed by local architect Edmond Egan, the Forest Hotel became a striking feature of the landscape, blending the natural beauty of Epping Forest with the elegance of Victorian architecture.

Egan, known for his work on the beautiful houses along The Drive and Crescent Road in Chingford, gave the hotel a sense of grandeur fitting for its surroundings.

Queen Victoria and becoming The Royal Forest Hotel

The hotel’s fortunes took an even grander turn in 1882 when none other than Queen Victoria herself paid a visit to Chingford. In honour of this royal occasion, the hotel was renamed “The Royal Forest Hotel.”

To mark the special event, a dazzling firework display was organised by the famous pyrotechnician Mr. Brock, adding a touch of spectacle to the hotel’s already growing reputation.

By 1910, The Royal Forest Hotel was thriving, welcoming numerous visitors to Epping Forest, who arrived by train to explore the natural beauty and take in the fresh air.

However, just a few years later, in 1912, the hotel suffered a devastating fire that destroyed the top floor. Though the building was rebuilt, it was never restored to its original height, but it continued to serve as a beloved destination for those seeking a break from city life.

The Royal Forest Hotel Staircase

One of the hotel’s standout features is its wide staircase, adorned with a stunning stained-glass window that depicts Queen Elizabeth I and her court at the famous Epping Hunt, a tradition deeply rooted in the area’s history. This window remains a beautiful testament to the hotel’s connection to royal history and local heritage.

While The Royal Forest Hotel no longer serves guests in its original capacity, its legacy as a cherished landmark lives on, telling the story of Chingford’s past and its close ties to both nature and royalty.

Discover more about the hotel’s varied history at Chingford Historical Society.