The name Snaresbrook in it's present form was first recorded in 1599. The small village was first known for being a good hunting ground due to it's proximity to Epping forest. The hunter's used mainly snares to catch their pray and the was a small stream which is no longer visible. Hence the name.
After that it was a convenient coaching halt for those on their way to Epping. The now Toby Carvery was once the oldest Hotel in Wanstead that would host travelers. At the end of the hill leading up the the train station you can find an out of use fountain where horses could freshen up.
More houses (Georgian) began to be built and so was the train station, opened in 1856 on the Loughton Branch. The railway was later merged with the Central Line in 1947 and can take you right into the heart of London in only half an hour.
Across the pond you can see the Infant Orphan Asylum, which became the Royal Wanstead School and is now Snaresbrook Crown Court. Built by Leopold 1st, King of the Belgians in 1843.