Ershad Spring, London, Hollow Ponds

## Overview Ershad Spring is a natural spring located near Hollow Ponds in the Epping Forest area of northeast London. Situated close to the border of Walthamstow and Leytonstone, this lesser-known spring emerges from the ground in an oval-shaped pool, offering visitors a glimpse of natural groundwater surfacing in one of London's most accessible green spaces. The water at Ershad Spring has a noticeable sulphurous (eggy) smell, which is characteristic of water that has passed through mineral-rich geological layers containing hydrogen sulphide. This is a common trait of natural springs and is not necessarily an indicator of contamination — many historic sulphur springs across England have been valued for centuries for their perceived health benefits. Visitors have reported that the sulphur smell can be reduced by filtering the water through a cloth. ## Directions 1. Head to the Hollow Ponds area near Whipps Cross Road in Leytonstone, northeast London (approximate GPS: 51.583154, 0.0124266). 2. Park in the nearby car park — look for the car park closest to Hollow Ponds off Whipps Cross Road. 3. From the car park, follow the path through the gate. 4. Walk alongside the fence, keeping an eye to your left. 5. The spring will appear as an oval-shaped pool at ground level on your left-hand side. *Note: The spring is at ground level and can be easy to miss if you're not looking carefully. It is not a fountain or tap — it is a natural seep emerging from the earth.* ## What to Expect Ershad Spring is a ground-level natural seep rather than a flowing fountain or spout. The water collects in a small, oval-shaped depression in the earth. Expect a noticeable sulphurous odour, which is typical of mineral-rich spring water and comes from naturally occurring sulphur compounds in the groundwater. The surrounding area is part of the Hollow Ponds and Epping Forest landscape — a mix of woodland, open grassland, and ponds that are popular with walkers, joggers, and families. The spring itself is in a quieter, more tucked-away spot along the fenced path from the car park. While the spring has historically been used by local visitors, the water has not been officially tested or certified as safe for drinking. If you choose to collect water, be aware that it is unfiltered groundwater. Some visitors have reported boiling or filtering the water before use. Please respect the natural environment around the spring — avoid disturbing the ground, leave no litter, and help preserve this small natural feature for future visitors.