EPPING FOREST

district, administrative and historic county of Essex, England, at the northeastern edge of London. The name also refers to an ancient tract of woodland that crosses through the district. The original forest was a royal hunting ground that was gradually enclosed; only through opposition by holders of common rights was it in part saved by act of Parliament in 1878. The remaining 9 square miles (23 square km) passed to the care of the Corporation of the City of London. The market town of Epping serves the area as a prosperous suburban shopping centre. Other modern suburbs within the district include Chigwell, Waltham Abbey, and Ongar. Area 131 square miles (340 square km). Pop. (1998 est.) 119,800.