The Royal Forest is now open, following a multi-million pound refurbishment and it is brimming with quirky touches and historical British charm.
Chingford’s latest addition to the dining scene is the fifth pub with rooms from award-winning Heartwood Inns which is part of Heartwood Collection and sister company to Brasserie Blanc.
The Royal Forest, originally designed by architect Edmond Egan in 1880, has a storied past as a visitor destination, welcoming guests since the opening of Chingford Station. The pub was re-named in 1882 in honour of a visit from Queen Victoria and is nestled next to the Grade II listed Queen Elizabeth’s Hunting Lodge, cementing its regal reputation. This landmark location is set to captivate guests once more.
The refurbishment honours The Royal Forest’s heritage, restoring key features such as a stunning stained-glass window depicting Queen Elizabeth I. Guests can look forward to a welcoming 90-cover bar, a dining room seating up to 142, two outdoor terraces for up to 90 and 28 boutique bedrooms, all reimagined with Heartwood’s signature quirky yet timeless style. On the ground floor guests can enjoy a range of spaces from the Library with its cosy panelling and woodburning stove to the Forest Room with its sweeping view of the forest.
A Haven for Food and Drink Lovers
The Royal Forest has a three star rating from the Sustainable Restaurant Association, the highest rating possible, and will be serving up a seasonal menu full of familiar favourites. The pub works with renowned suppliers such as Aubrey Allen, Jude’s and ChalkStream trout to change their menus quarterly in line with the seasons using the highest quality ethically sourced produce and ingredients championing sustainable and locally sourced ingredients. Guests can enjoy modern British dishes alongside local ales including Cowcatcher, a pale ale from the East London Brewing Co, an expertly curated wine list and creative cocktails designed to celebrate the local area.
To start, take your pick from a beetroot terrine with horseradish sorbet and beetroot dressing or traditional French onion soup served with lashings of gooey Gruyère and croutons. Mains include an eight hour slow-cooked shoulder of Highland venison served with a rich Grand Veneur sauce, blackberries and mash and an artichoke and chestnut mushroom pithivier served with pickled girolles, braised baby onions, grilled leeks and accompanied by a red wine and port sauce. For dessert, indulge in the spectacular “Autumn Still Life”, a homage to the season and the joys of exploring the forest.
Children are catered for with their own dedicated menu filled with activities to keep them occupied whilst you dine with two courses for just £9.50 and three courses for £12.50. Dishes include grilled trout with homemade tomato sauce and ice cream served with an ultimate toppings platter (£2 supplement) which includes mini marshmallows, strawberries, chocolate sauce and more.
On Sundays, the pub serves a classic selection of roasts including 30 day dry-aged beef from Aubrey Allen served with all the trimmings including bottomless Yorkshires, gravy and roast potatoes.
With 2025 just around the corner guests can enjoy a festive New Year’s Eve Sleepover Package from just £124.50 per person which includes an overnight stay, a glass of bubbles on arrival, a festive seasonal dinner with live entertainment and a hearty breakfast with a late check-out in the morning.
A Perfect Escape with Boutique Accommodation
The 28 beautifully designed bedrooms will offer a luxurious retreat, with thoughtful touches such as bespoke furnishings and Bramley toiletries. Each unique room boasts a comfy Silentnight mattress, luxurious throws from The Secret Linen Store and duvets from The Fine Bedding Company. Rooms range from a Comfy, perfect for the solo traveller, through to Really Comfy, Fancy, Really Fancy and the ultimate – Luxe room – some of which boast roll top baths (with luxury bath salts), original stained glass windows, comfortable seating areas, fluffy robes, slippers and Bramley sleep spray for the perfect night’s rest. All rooms benefit from tea and coffee making facilities, rainfall showers and smart TV’s with casting to make your stay as relaxing as possible.
Canine Companions Are Welcome
The pub has a number of dog-friendly rooms for guests travelling with their four-legged friends. Pooches are pampered with dog beds and Bramley toiletries for a charge of £20 (total cost for the stay for up to two dogs). They also have their very own gourmet menu courtesy of Sir Woofchester’s which includes nutritious and tasty dishes such as “Fish & Chips” and “Bark Bangers”.
Explore Epping Forest and Beyond
Situated in an idyllic location on the edge of London’s largest open space, The Royal Forest is an ideal base for exploring the surrounding countryside, taking scenic walks, and immersing yourself in local history. Its proximity to London (30 minutes on the train to Liverpool Street station) makes it a convenient escape for city dwellers.
The opening of The Royal Forest reflects Heartwood Collection’s commitment to expanding its portfolio of pubs with rooms. With 29 Heartwood Inns and 14 Brasserie Blanc restaurants across the UK, the group is on track to operate over 60 sites by 2027. Heartwood Collection operates a diverse portfolio of pubs and brasseries, combining exceptional hospitality, sustainability, and local charm. The group is committed to offering memorable dining, drinking, and accommodation experiences across the UK.
For more information, please visit www.heartwoodinns.com or www.heartwoodcollection.com.