The Wollstoncraft family moved to Epping Forest and then to Barking, Essex, in 1765. These locations provided her with a connection to nature and a respite from her father's temper and alcoholism.

Barking, Essex:

Barking, located in Essex, was a small but growing town during the late 1700s. Barking had a long history as a market town, with its market place being a central feature. The market was a hub of local trade and commerce. The surrounding area was primarily agricultural, with a mix of arable land, marshland, and meadows. The soil varied from clay to gravel and loam. The ruins of Barking Abbey, a significant historical site, were a notable landmark. The abbey had been a major religious center before its dissolution in the 16th century.  Barking was known for its fishing industry, particularly for supplying fish to London. The town's location near the River Thames made it an ideal spot for fishing and related activities.