1. Ealing Broadway and Town Centre
One of the first places to visit is Ealing Broadway. This is the commercial and social heart of the borough, where you’ll find a vibrant blend of shops, restaurants, and street performances.
The Ealing Broadway Shopping Centre is a great spot to pick up essentials or enjoy high-street fashion.
The pedestrian-friendly high street often hosts pop-up stalls and seasonal events, making it a lively area throughout the year. Cafes with outdoor seating offer a great way to enjoy the area’s energy while sipping your favorite coffee.
2. Walpole Park
Walpole Park is arguably Ealing’s crown jewel when it comes to green spaces. Spanning 28 acres, this beautifully landscaped park is ideal for walks, picnics, or simply soaking in nature.
It features ornamental gardens, a large pond, children’s play areas, and even an art gallery within its premises.
It regularly hosts cultural festivals like the Ealing Summer Festival, drawing crowds from all over London. Walpole Park is a picturesque retreat right in the heart of the borough, combining leisure with local culture.
3. Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery
Adjacent to Walpole Park, Pitzhanger Manor is an architectural treasure. Once the country home of renowned British architect Sir John Soane, this restored Georgian villa showcases period interiors and thought-provoking contemporary art exhibitions.
The gallery attracts both local artists and international creatives. Touring the manor offers a fascinating insight into Georgian lifestyle and Soane’s architectural vision, while the modern gallery space provides a striking contrast of the old and the new.
4. Ealing Studios
Film buffs must make a stop at Ealing Studios, the oldest continuously working film studio in the world. Established in 1902, it has produced some of Britain’s most beloved comedies and dramas.
Although tours inside the studios are not publicly available due to ongoing productions, the surrounding area is steeped in cinematic history.
Films like The Lavender Hill Mob and Kind Hearts and Coronets were shot here, making it a place of pilgrimage for movie lovers.
5. Ealing Common
This vast expanse of open green land is perfect for families, dog walkers, and anyone in need of a breath of fresh air. Ealing Common spans over 47 acres and features wide pathways, mature trees, and open lawns.
It’s often used for community events and informal sports matches. It also connects with Gunnersbury Park, offering an extended walking route for those who love long, peaceful strolls.
6. Acton Park
Although technically in East Acton, Acton Park is closely linked to Ealing and worth the short journey. It has a variety of features including a bowling green, basketball court, and a lovely café.
The park is particularly child-friendly and often sees families spending their weekends here. Seasonal flower displays and quiet corners for reading or relaxing add to its charm.
7. Northala Fields
Located on the northern edge of Ealing, Northala Fields offers a unique landscape shaped by the recycled rubble from the original Wembley Stadium. The park features four man-made hills, fishing lakes, a model boating lake, and vast open spaces.
Climbing one of the hills rewards you with panoramic views across West London, a hidden gem many Londoners don’t even know exists.
8. Gunnersbury Park and Museum
Gunnersbury Park sits right on the boundary of Ealing and Hounslow and is a historical site with impressive grounds. The recently restored Gunnersbury Museum within the park offers exhibitions on local history, Victorian life, and the Rothschild family who once owned the estate. The museum is engaging for both adults and children, making it a great educational day out.
9. Ealing Farmers’ Market
Every Saturday, the Ealing Farmers’ Market takes place near Leeland Road, offering a wide range of fresh produce, artisanal foods, and handmade goods. It’s a favorite among locals who value organic and locally sourced items.
From fresh bread and free-range eggs to seasonal fruits and gourmet cheeses, the market provides a true taste of the borough’s culinary culture.
10. Hanwell Flight of Locks
The Hanwell Locks, part of the Grand Union Canal, provide a tranquil and scenic walk. The “flight” consists of six locks in quick succession, making it an engineering marvel of its time.
The canal-side walk is peaceful and lined with wildflowers, birds, and charming canal boats. For those who enjoy photography, the views during golden hour are stunning.
11. Brent Lodge Park and Hanwell Zoo
Also known as the “Bunny Park,” Brent Lodge Park is home to a small zoo, children’s play area, and plenty of open space. Hanwell Zoo offers an intimate and engaging experience with animals like meerkats, lemurs, and porcupines. It’s ideal for a family day out and also supports conservation efforts through its programs.
12. Questors Theatre
Ealing is home to one of the largest amateur dramatic theatres in Europe, the Questors Theatre. It offers a diverse program of plays, ranging from classical to contemporary, and hosts a strong local community of actors and theatre lovers.
Even if you’re not into drama, the theatre’s atmospheric building and lively schedule make it worth a visit.
13. Southall Broadway
Part of Ealing’s multicultural richness, Southall is often referred to as “Little India.” Walking along Southall Broadway, you’ll find an array of Indian and Pakistani shops, clothing stores, and some of the best curry houses in London.
The area also boasts beautiful places of worship including the Sri Guru Singh Sabha Gurdwara, one of the largest Sikh temples outside India.
14. St Mary’s Church, Ealing
For those interested in historical buildings, St Mary’s Church offers Gothic architecture, peaceful grounds, and centuries of history. The churchyard is serene and makes for a calming stop during your tour of Ealing.
15. Ealing Trailfinders Rugby Club
Sports fans can catch a game at the Ealing Trailfinders Rugby Club, a respected team in the English Championship. The family-friendly venue often hosts local matches and school events. Even if you’re not a rugby fan, the club is deeply woven into the community’s identity.
Additional Spots to Explore
If you still have time on your hands, Ealing has even more hidden delights:
The Drayton Court Hotel
This historic pub and hotel, with one of the largest beer gardens in London, is a great place to enjoy traditional British fare. The building itself is beautiful and steeped in Edwardian charm.
Ealing Central Library
The library is not just for book lovers. It regularly hosts community events, children’s storytelling sessions, and serves as a quiet refuge for studying or working remotely.
Musical Events and Local Gigs
Ealing has a proud musical heritage and often holds small gigs in local venues. Look out for blues festivals, jazz nights, and acoustic sets that reflect the area’s creative pulse.
FAQs
Is Ealing suitable for a day trip?
Yes, Ealing is perfect for a day trip. With its mix of parks, cultural sites, and food options, you can easily spend a full day exploring without feeling rushed.
Are there guided tours available in Ealing?
While official guided tours are limited, local walking groups and apps offer self-guided tours, especially for historical areas and film-related locations.
What is the best time to visit Ealing?
Spring and summer are ideal due to the pleasant weather and various outdoor festivals, but Ealing has year-round attractions worth visiting.
Is Ealing family-friendly?
Absolutely. With parks, zoos, kid-friendly cafes, and events, Ealing caters well to families with children.
How do I get to Ealing from Central London?
Ealing Broadway is well-connected via the Elizabeth Line and Central Line, taking about 20–30 minutes from Central London.
