Your Guide to Fun and Memorable Family Outings Around Ealing

Posted on 05/11/2025

Looking for ideas to create unforgettable family memories? Ealing, one of West London's most vibrant boroughs, is packed with an amazing range of family-friendly outings, activities, and attractions. Whether you're planning a weekend escape, a school holiday adventure, or simply seeking a unique way to bond as a family, Ealing offers something for everyone. In this comprehensive guide, discover the top picks for fun days out with your loved ones in Ealing and its nearby neighbourhoods.

Why Ealing is Ideal for Family Outings

Ealing, often referred to as the "Queen of the Suburbs," is renowned for its picturesque parks, cultural attractions, and vibrant community events. Thanks to excellent transport links, getting around Ealing is a breeze, making it even easier for families to explore its hidden gems. The borough's strong sense of community, coupled with its rich heritage and modern amenities, ensures there's never a dull moment.

What Makes Family Time in Ealing Special?

Variety of Attractions: From historic sites to nature reserves and creative workshops, families are spoilt for choice in Ealing.
Events for All Ages: The local community and council host regular festivals, open-air cinemas, and family fun days.
Ample Green Spaces: Parks and gardens mean outdoor activities are accessible year-round.

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Top Family Outing Spots Around Ealing

Planning the perfect family day out in Ealing starts with picking the right destination. Here are the must-visit locations that promise a mix of fun, adventure, and learning for all ages.

1. Walpole Park - Ealing's Green Jewel

A favourite among locals and visitors alike, Walpole Park is a sprawling 28-acre oasis right at the heart of the borough. The park caters to all kinds of family outings, from picnics to playdates and cultural events.

Children's playground with imaginative equipment
Paddling pool (summer months)
Picturesque ornamental gardens
The historic Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery, perfect for a dash of art and history

*Tip: Check out the annual Ealing Summer Festivals in Walpole Park for music, theatre, and food stalls - a guaranteed fun atmosphere for families.*

2. Ealing Broadway - For Shopping, Dining, and Entertainment

If your idea of a great family outing around Ealing includes shopping, good food, and hands-on activities, Ealing Broadway has you covered.

Family-friendly restaurants and cafes, including pizza, burgers, and international cuisines
Cinema for the latest family blockbusters
Seasonal events like the Christmas market and summer children's activities

3. Gunnersbury Park and Museum

Just a short hop from Ealing, Gunnersbury Park offers everything you need for a full day of family fun. It uniquely combines vast open spaces, a boating lake, sports facilities, and an interactive local history museum.

Adventure playground for all ages
Formal and wild gardens for leisurely walks
Museum with hands-on exhibits focused on history, industry, and lifestyles of West London

4. Discover Nature at Brent Lodge Park & The Bunny Park

For families who love animals and exploring the outdoors, Brent Lodge Park (nicknamed The Bunny Park) is a must-visit. This much-loved spot features:

A free animal centre with rabbits, goats, and exotic birds
A maze and adventure playground
Miniature railway (operates on select days)

*Don't miss the on-site cafe serving kid-friendly snacks and ice cream!*

5. Northala Fields - Unique Outdoor Adventure

Northala Fields stands out thanks to its striking man-made hills, which are perfect for energetic kids to climb and adults to photograph. Other family features include:

Fishing lakes and wildlife habitats
Biking and walking paths
Modern playground with creative apparatus
Scenic spots for picnics and kite-flying

6. Ealing's Local Libraries - A Haven for Bookworms

Ealing's network of local libraries regularly hosts family-friendly activities such as story time, craft workshops, and seasonal events. Drop in to browse the latest children's books or check the schedule for special events.

7. Hanwell Zoo - Small, Friendly, and Full of Surprises

Tucked away in the heart of Hanwell, this small but well-kept zoo is a great destination for young families wanting to get up close with animals.

Meerkats, monkeys, reptiles, and a variety of birds and mammals
Interactive feeding sessions (check daily programme)
Bespoke educational activities

Seasonal Events & Hidden Gems for Family Bonding

Annual Festivals and Community Events

Ealing is known for its packed calendar of family-friendly festivals. Plan your visit around:
o Ealing Jazz Festival
o Light Up the Lane (Hanwell)
o Greenford Carnival
o Ealing Half Marathon Family Run

*Check the Ealing Council website or local event listings for up-to-date dates and details.*

Creative Workshops and Learning Experiences

If your family loves making memories with creative activities, Ealing's art centres and studios offer pottery, painting, dance, and music workshops suitable for children and parents alike.

Tea Darling - for delectable afternoon teas and craft sessions
The Questors Theatre - family performances and drama classes
Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery - creative art workshops inspired by temporary exhibitions

Rainy Day Activities in Ealing

Don't let the British weather dampen your plans! There are plenty of indoor family attractions in Ealing:

Indoor play centres such as Kidz #1 for soft play and giant slides
Leiths Cookery School - family cook-along classes
Local leisure centres with swimming pools and junior gym sessions

Top Tips for A Smooth Family Outing Around Ealing

Plan Ahead: Some popular spots (like Hanwell Zoo) recommend advance booking for weekends or holidays.
Pack Essentials: Remember snacks, drinks, sun protection, and umbrellas for unpredictable weather.
Travel Smart: Ealing boasts excellent public transport. Consider trains, the Elizabeth Line, or bus routes to make travel easier, especially with pushchairs.
Mix and Match: Combine two or more attractions (e.g., Walpole Park and Ealing Broadway) for a diverse day out.
Look for Discounts: Many attractions offer family tickets, group discounts, or free entry for children.

The Best Places to Eat with Kids in Ealing

No memorable family outing is complete without delicious food. Ealing offers a host of eateries that welcome children, often providing kids' menus and entertainment packs.

Santa Maria Pizzeria - For authentic Neapolitan pizzas in a friendly setting.
Bill's Ealing - All-day dining with hearty brunches, burgers, and healthy kids' options.
Patisserie Valerie - Perfect for afternoon tea with delightful cakes and pastries.
GAIL's Bakery - Artisan breads, pastries, and coffee for parents in need of a caffeine hit.

*Many cafes and restaurants around Ealing offer outdoor seating - a bonus for families and a great way to enjoy the borough's atmosphere.*

Making the Most of Family Outings Around Ealing

Ready to create unforgettable moments with your loved ones? Ealing's family-friendly outings provide something for every interest, age, and budget. From outdoor adventures and historical sights to rainy-day retreats and creative workshops, this West London borough is the perfect backdrop for quality family time.

Start planning your next adventure today and discover why Ealing is one of London's top destinations for memorable family outings!

Quick Recap - Ealing Family Outings at a Glance

Parks & Open Spaces: Walpole Park, Gunnersbury Park, Northala Fields
Wildlife Encounters: Hanwell Zoo, Brent Lodge Bunny Park
Cultural Fun: Pitzhanger Manor, local theatres, libraries
Shopping & Dining: Ealing Broadway and surrounding restaurants
Creative Activities: Art and pottery workshops, community events

Frequently Asked Questions about Family Outings in Ealing

What's the best free family attraction in Ealing?: Walpole Park offers extensive free facilities, including a playground, gardens, and regular outdoor events for families.
Are dogs allowed in Ealing's parks?: Yes, most Ealing parks welcome dogs, provided they are kept on leads in certain areas. Always check local signage for restrictions before visiting.
Is Ealing accessible for buggies and wheelchairs?: Many family attractions and parks feature step-free paths, accessible toilets, and parking. Gunnersbury Park and Walpole Park are especially family- and buggy-friendly.
Where can we park during weekends?: Several destinations, like Northala Fields and Hanwell Zoo, have dedicated car parks. Ealing Broadway offers multi-storey parking and is well-served by public transport on weekends.

With this comprehensive guide to fun and memorable family outings around Ealing, you're all set for adventures that your children will cherish and talk about for years to come. Whether you're a resident or visiting West London, Ealing's charm, creativity, and community spirit promise family fun at every turn!