The Bungalow, High Beach

First Impressions

When I first pulled up to The Bungalow, High Beach, I honestly wasn’t sure what to expect from a three-star place tucked away in Waltham Abbey. But walking up that tree-lined path on Pynest Green Lane, I realized this wasn’t going to be your typical roadside stay. The building has this understated charm — you know, the kind of place that doesn’t need to shout about how special it is.

The Setting

Here’s what struck me about the location: it’s actually right on the edge of Epping Forest, which means you get proper countryside feels without being completely cut off from civilization. Waltham Abbey itself is this quiet historic town that most people drive through without stopping, but that’s exactly why I liked it. You’re about 30 minutes from central London when traffic’s behaving, but step outside and you could be miles from anywhere.

The Room Experience

My room was simple but thoughtfully done — clean lines, decent-sized windows that actually open (thank goodness), and a bathroom that didn’t make me feel like I was camping. The bed was proper comfortable, and honestly, after a day exploring the forest paths, that’s what mattered most. What I appreciated was the attention to small details: good reading lights, enough plug points, and blackout curtains that actually worked.

Food and Surroundings

The on-site restaurant serves solid pub-style food — nothing fancy, but executed well. I had their fish and chips one evening, and it was exactly what you’d want after a long walk. The staff seemed to know the area inside and out, which proved handy when I asked about hiking routes. There’s also parking right there, which takes away that city-hotel stress of circling blocks looking for a spot.

Why Guests Love It

Look, this isn’t a place trying to be something it’s not. The Bungalow, High Beach works because it gets the basics right and then adds that forest location as a proper bonus. I met other guests who’d come specifically for the walking — apparently the trails that connect directly from the property are some of the best in Essex. The 10-point rating makes sense when you consider what you’re actually getting: a comfortable base in a genuinely peaceful setting, run by people who care about the details that matter to travelers.