North Weald Village Rich in History and Community Spirit

For nearly 50 years Forest Radio has been proud to serve communities across Essex. We have been dedicated to bringing listeners a unique blend of music from the 1950s through to the 1990s, alongside trusted community news, local information and health advice. One of the communities we're delighted to broadcast to is the historic village of North Weald, nestled in the beautiful Epping Forest district of Essex.

A Brief History of North Weald

Although many people immediately associate North Weald with its famous airfield, the village's history stretches back far beyond aviation.

The area has medieval origins and developed as a rural farming community. The parish of North Weald Bassett has been recorded for centuries, with agriculture forming the backbone of village life. During the Victorian era, improvements in transport helped the village grow steadily while still retaining its countryside character.

North Weald's place in British history was secured during the First World War when North Weald Airfield opened in 1916 as a Royal Flying Corps landing ground. It later became one of Britain's most important RAF fighter stations.

During the Second World War, RAF North Weald played a crucial role in the Battle of Britain. Pilots flying Hurricanes and Spitfires defended London and the South East from enemy attack, making the airfield one of the country's most significant front-line fighter bases. More than 50 squadrons from seven nations operated from the airfield throughout its military history before RAF operations ended in 1964.

Today, the airfield remains active for general aviation and hosts aviation events, classic vehicle rallies and heritage activities, helping preserve an important chapter of Essex's history. 

North Weald Today

Modern North Weald combines its historic past with a thriving village community.

Residents enjoy a selection of independent shops, cafés, local pubs and community facilities, while nearby Epping, Harlow and the M11 provide excellent transport connections. The surrounding countryside offers opportunities for walking and cycling, with Epping Forest only a short distance away.

The historic airfield continues to attract aviation enthusiasts throughout the year, while local events bring together residents of all ages. The village also benefits from active community groups, sports clubs and volunteer organisations that help make North Weald such a welcoming place to live.

It's this strong community spirit that reflects the values of Forest Radio.

Forest Radio – Proudly Serving Essex 

At Forest Radio, we believe local radio should do more than simply play great music.

Our listeners enjoy carefully selected hits spanning the 50s to the 90s, bringing back memories while introducing timeless classics to new generations.

Alongside the music, we provide:

• Local community news, events and What’s On Guides
• Health and wellbeing information from trusted local partners
• Information that helps listeners stay connected with their community
• Friendly presenters who know and love the area they broadcast to.

Forest Radio combines nostalgic music with practical information that matters to local people.

Proud to Broadcast to North Weald

North Weald has always been a place where history, resilience and community come together. From defending Britain's skies during wartime to supporting a vibrant village today, it remains one of Essex's most fascinating locations.

Forest Radio is proud to broadcast to North Weald and surrounding communities, continuing our mission of serving Essex residents with great music, local information and trusted health updates.

If you're looking for music from the 50s to the 90s, combined with genuine community radio that keeps you informed about what's happening across Essex, you've found the right station.

Local radio including Forest Radio is about more than music—it's about bringing communities together.