Did you know it is illegal to dance noisily in Epping Forest?

The ancient woodland, stretching from Forest Gate in east London to North Weald, is governed by its own set of by-laws.

While most of these laws are relatively normal, some are just outright bizarre.

The laws cover the 5,900-acre forest, are enforced by Epping Forest Keepers and if broken, can lead to prosecution.

Most of the by-laws involve basic ways of respecting the forest and other people using it, such as: don't leave litter, don't have barbecues and keep pets under control.

However, there are a lot of less known by-laws, some of which are very specific and very strange.

Here are some of our favourites:

Molesting Commoners' cattle

“Chasing or in any other way molesting the Commoners' cattle.”

Washing animals or vehicles

“Washing any animal or vehicle in the Forest.”

Jumping fences or ditches

“When riding a horse or other animal in any part of the Forest.”

Dancing etc

“Dancing in such a manner or accompanied by such a noise that it may be a nuisance or annoyance to the public.”

Greyhounds and Whippets

“Bringing or allowing to be brought or to go upon the Forest or being in charge upon the Forest, of any Greyhound or Whippet or dog cross-bred therefrom, which is not effectively muzzled.”

Mineral detectors etc

“Using or operating a metal or mineral detector or any device for locating objects below ground level, without the previous consent in writing of the Conservators.”

Model aircraft

“Flying any power-driven model aircraft, except when the person flying such aircraft has in his possession and is conforming to the requirements of a valid permit issued to him by the Superintendent in accordance with the provisions of the First Schedule hereto.”

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