Highams Park Lake, located in the Highams Park area, has a long and storied history, dating back to its creation in 1794 by landscape designer Humphry Repton as part of the "Highams Estate." The lake has been used for various recreational activities over the years, including boating and canoeing, with a local Scout Group utilizing it for adventurous water-based pursuits since 1981. Anglers also frequent the lake, taking advantage of its diverse ecosystem and variety of fish species. Managed by the City of London Corporation under the authority of the Epping Forest Act of 1878, Highams Park Lake is an integral part of the larger Epping Forest area and holds significant ecological value. Designated as a Special Area of Conservation and a Site of Special Scientific Interest, the lake helps preserve and protect unique habitats and species within the forest ecosystem. Surrounded by a variety of plant and tree species, including Scots Pine, Sweet Chestnut, Deodar, Weymouth Pine, Alders, Willows, ancient pollarded Hornbeams, and young Oaks, the area boasts a rich diversity of vegetation. The lake is also home to a multitude of bird species, including swans, mallards, great crested grebes, tufted ducks, coots, moorhens, pochards, herons, and cormorants, offering birdwatchers a chance to appreciate the park's vibrant wildlife. With its historical significance, ecological importance, and recreational opportunities, Highams Park Lake is a beloved asset within the Epping Forest landscape, providing a peaceful and enchanting natural retreat for both residents and visitors alike.