Although only 10½ miles from Central London, North Chingford – which until the railway replaced the twice-weekly stagecoach was practically cut off -- still has a semi-rural feel to it. 136 years ago to the day - on 6th May 1882 -- Queen Victoria travelled to Chingford to formally give Epping Forest to the people. The hunting lodge (pictured), famously connected with Elizabeth I, was built for another famous royal. On the walk we will hear about a 19th century swindler, the “forgotten father of English sport” and a famous composer’s misguided attempt to qualify as a pilot at Chingford Aerodrome and see a former pub built “in the wildest Loire style” before finishing at a 19th century refreshment retreat.