Epping, Essex: The Historic Market Town That Forest Radio Calls Home

When people think of Epping, they often think of the famous forest that bears its name. But this charming Essex market town is much more than a gateway to ancient woodland. It's a place steeped in history, surrounded by countryside, and home to a thriving community.



It's also where Forest Radio has proudly been based since 1980, broadcasting classic hits from the 1950s, 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s, alongside trusted local news, community information and health advice for listeners across West Essex and beyond. 

A Brief History of Epping

People have lived around Epping for thousands of years. Archaeological discoveries suggest settlements dating back as far as 7500 BC, while Roman coins and roads found nearby hint at the area's long and fascinating past.

The town itself first appeared in the Domesday Book of 1086 as "Eppinga", although today's High Street developed a little later when woodland was cleared to create a new settlement known as Epping Heath.

One of the biggest moments in Epping's history came in 1253, when King Henry III granted the town permission to hold a weekly market. More than 770 years later, Epping Market still takes place every Monday, making it one of the oldest continuously operating markets in the country.

During the coaching era, Epping became one of the busiest stopping points on the road between London and East Anglia. At one stage there were more than 25 stagecoaches passing through every day, supported by dozens of coaching inns lining the High Street.

When the railway arrived in the 19th century, followed later by London's Central Line, Epping evolved into a popular commuter town while still managing to retain much of its historic character.



A Town Surrounded by Nature

Few towns enjoy such a spectacular natural neighbour.

Epping Forest stretches across thousands of acres and has protected the town from sprawling development for generations. Thanks to the Epping Forest Act of 1878, much of this ancient woodland remains open for everyone to enjoy, whether you're walking the trails, cycling through the trees or simply enjoying a peaceful afternoon outdoors.



The combination of a bustling market town and one of Britain's most famous forests gives Epping a character that's difficult to find elsewhere.

Epping Today

Modern Epping offers the best of both worlds.

Its High Street is packed with independent shops, cafés, restaurants and familiar national brands, while excellent transport links via the Central Line, M25 and M11 make it an ideal base for commuters and visitors alike. Around 12,000 people call Epping home, with over 90% of the surrounding area protected as Green Belt, helping preserve its distinctive feel.



Despite being within easy reach of London, Epping has never lost its sense of community. Local events, charities, volunteer groups and independent businesses continue to play an important role in daily life.

Forest Radio: Proudly Part of Epping Since 1980

While the town has changed over the decades, one thing has remained constant.

Since moving to St Margaret's Hospital in Epping in 1980, Forest Radio has grown from a hospital radio service into one of Essex's best-loved community radio stations. What started with a small group of volunteers has become a trusted source of entertainment and local information for thousands of listeners.

Today, Forest Radio continues that tradition by bringing together:

• The greatest music from the 50s, 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s
• Local news from across Epping, Harlow, Ongar, Loughton, Waltham Abbey and West Essex
• Community events and what's on guides
• Health and wellbeing information from trusted local partners
• Friendly presenters who know and love the area they broadcast to.

In an age of algorithms and automated playlists, Forest Radio still believes local radio should feel... well... local.

Why Local Radio Still Matters

Whether you're driving through Essex, walking the dog in Epping Forest, enjoying a coffee on the High Street or listening at home, local radio brings communities together in a way national stations simply can't.

Forest Radio celebrates the people, places and stories that make Epping special, while providing a soundtrack packed with timeless classics that span five unforgettable decades.

After more than four decades in the town, we're proud to call Epping home and even prouder to continue serving the community that has supported us since 1980.



If you love classic hits from the 50s to the 90s, local stories, community events and practical health information, you'll always find a warm welcome on Forest Radio.