Wanstead Flats
Wanstead flats form the southern-most part of Epping Forest and are a mix of rough grassland and mown areas. There are several ponds: [Alexandra Lake]? in the east, near the entrance to [City of London Cemetary]? and the newly rennovated [Jubilee Pond]? in the west.
Unlike Leyton Flats, Wanstead flats are a popular location for sports and social activities, including:
- Sunday-league [football]?.
- [model air-plane]? flying.
- [model boating]? on [Jubilee Pond]?.
- [horse-riding]?, including occasional gymkhanas run by a local riding school.
Until recently, it wasn't uncommon to see cattle grazing on the flats but BSE put an end to that. However, the Corporation of the City of London, which is responsible for the upkeep of Epping Forest, recently announced plans to re-introduce a herd of longhorn cattle into the southern part of the forest.
Sadly, there are few good pubs in the area. The Golden Fleece on Capel Road does reasonably priced food and in the summer customers can take their drinks outside and sit on the Flats.
Near to the flats, to the east, are the romantic ruins of Wanstead Park.