With the recent clock change signalling the return of long, dark nights, it’s tempting to return to the daily migration from the office to the sanctuary of the sofa.
But why stay stuck indoors where there’s a whole world of nocturnal adventure awaiting after dark. Feeling restless, I booked a three-hour night hike through the wilds of Epping Forest and wondered would I make it out alive?
Office Breaks Twilight Epping Forest
Arriving into Loughton by tube, stylish interiors give no hint that out here the only way is Essex. Heading down the High Street, I meet my fellow walkers for what could be our last meal in a while. I almost choke on my drink when our walk leader sheepishly mentions that he has only tested the walk that afternoon. A calorie-laden dessert is swiftly ordered to sustain me till daylight.
Axel Drainville Epping Forest
Armed with torches, spare batteries, reflective strips and bottles of water, we leave the bright lights of Loughton behind and enter the black interior of the woods. With limited vision, the earthy odour of decomposing leaves assails our nostrils while furtive rustlings from the undergrowth are amplified in high definition. Squeals of horror pierce the night as feet quickly submerge into oozing mud. (Bring proper walking shoes) Sinking into what feels like quicksand, our eyes strain to navigate the drier spots by torch beam. Compared to leisurely daytime ambles, walking in the dark feels like running a marathon.
Office Breaks Twilight Epping Forest
Heading into dense foliage, the tree tops suddenly come alive as bats flit and glide around us in a kaleidoscope of beating wings. This close encounter with flying fur leads to nervous mutterings about possible spider encounters. If tarantulas can hurtle across the globe on a bunch of bananas, we decide it’s highly likely they could be lurking in Epping Forest.
Marching with a confidence that we clearly lack, our guide gets into his stride and his GPS leads us back to the comfort of a tarmac track and the clearest starlit sky I’ve ever seen. The balmy night air and the peace of the woodland leaves me with a feeling of deep contentment. Arriving at Queen Elizabeth hunting lodge, the unsettling sensation of being watched suddenly creeps over me. A quick swivel with the torch reveals the glinting eyes of a fallow deer staring in disbelief at this human invasion. With a quick flash of white it disappears into the undergrowth.
Office Breaks Night time Epping Forest
On the last leg of our journey, we enter Loughton Camp, a scheduled ancient earthworks that can only be explored on foot. Thought to have been a strategic look-out point, only a few twig filled mounds tell of its mysterious past.
Following the main path back, the roar of traffic and the sudden glare of street lights marks our safe return to civilization. Emerging from the woods like a cult just back from a ritual sacrifice, we decide to celebrate with a swift pint back at the Last Post. Reeling in horror, we discover a frock horror show in full swing. Eyed equally suspiciously by the locals, it appears that our own bedraggled state provides the greatest fright of the night.
An experienced walk leader is recommended for night time hikes. A wide range of Epping Forest walking routes is available to download.
What’s the most adventurous thing you’ve done with your free time this year?