Top Places To Visit With Children In Ealing And Surrounding Areas

Ealing, often called the “Queen of the Suburbs,” blends leafy parks, diverse cultural spots and a strong sense of community. Making it an ideal location for fun, family-friendly days out. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures or indoor activities, Ealing and the surrounding areas offer a variety of enriching and entertaining experiences for young children and their families.

And while you're planning your next day out, don’t forget to visit our Ealing nursery. Our purpose-built nursery in Ealing is designed to support every child’s early learning journey. 

1. Walpole Park - Nature And Play In The Heart Of Ealing

📍 Location: Mattock Lane, London, W5 5EQ

Why It’s Great For Children:

Walpole Park is one of Ealing’s most beloved green spaces, offering young children the freedom to explore in a safe and stimulating environment. From vast open lawns that invite running and ball games to shaded groves ideal for hide-and-seek, the park nurtures both energetic play and quiet moments in nature. The large playground, with climbing frames and interactive equipment, helps children build strength, balance and coordination. And thanks to the park’s connection to Pitzhanger Manor, families can also dip into the world of art and culture, perfect for sparking curiosity and creativity. Whether you're feeding ducks or participating in a craft activity, there’s always something new for children to discover.

Must-Do Activities:

• Feed the ducks or spot swans on the lake.
• Climb and swing in the spacious playground.
• Take part in seasonal art activities at Pitzhanger Gallery.

Best for: Toddlers and children aged 2+

2. Hanwell Zoo - A Small Zoo With Big Charm

📍 Location: Brent Lodge Park, Church Road, London, W7 3BP

Why It’s Great For Children:

Hanwell Zoo is perfectly sized for little legs and short attention spans, making it an excellent first zoo experience for younger children. With friendly keepers and thoughtfully designed enclosures, it offers a gentle yet exciting introduction to the animal world. Children can marvel at exotic species like flamingos, capybaras, and tamarins, while also learning about conservation and the environment in an accessible way. The zoo’s calm setting helps children feel secure and engaged, and the nearby maze and play area in Brent Lodge Park provides plenty of opportunities to extend your day out. Whether your child is fascinated by animals or just enjoys being outdoors, Hanwell Zoo encourages hands-on learning and emotional connection with nature.

Must-Do Activities:

• Spot the colourful birds and cheeky monkeys.
• Join in with educational keeper talks (check schedule).
• Explore the adjacent play area and maze in the park.

Best for: Children aged 1 to 7

3. Gunnersbury Park And Museum - History And Outdoor Fun Combined

📍 Location: Gunnersbury Park, Popes Lane, London, W3 8LQ

Why It’s Great For Children:

Gunnersbury Park is a true all-rounder that combines culture, history and play. The open parkland allows for bike riding, den building, kite flying and spontaneous family games, while the large, modern playground is packed with equipment that challenges children physically and supports imaginative role play. Inside the museum, interactive displays and changing exhibitions make history and heritage come alive for young learners. Families can often take part in themed workshops, craft sessions and trails tailored for children, encouraging them to ask questions, express ideas and connect with the world around them. It’s a space where physical development meets intellectual curiosity, all in one accessible and welcoming destination.

Must-Do Activities:

• Join a family trail at the museum.
• Burn energy on the large play equipment.
• Go wildlife watching around the lake.

Best for: Curious kids aged 3+

4. Ealing Central Library - Storytime And Learning

📍 Location: 1st Floor, The Broadway, London, W5 5JY

Why It’s Great For Children:

Ealing Central Library is more than just a quiet place to borrow books, it’s a vibrant Early Years learning hub. The dedicated children’s area is bright, colourful and inviting, filled with comfy reading nooks, themed displays and age-appropriate books. Weekly storytimes, baby rhyme sessions and creative workshops provide a strong foundation for early literacy and communication skills. Children develop language through rhythm, repetition and listening to stories read aloud by engaging staff. It also gives little ones a chance to socialise, listen and participate in group activities. Plus, it’s a brilliant free option for rainy days or regular weekend visits, where your child can fall in love with reading from the very beginning.

Must-Do Activities:

• Join a Baby Bounce or Toddler Tales session.
• Explore themed reading corners.
• Take part in seasonal library events and challenges.

Best for: Babies to early readers

5. Oxygen Freejumping - Indoor Energy Burn

📍 Location: 15, Vision Industrial Park, Kendal Avenue, London, W3 0AF

Why It’s Great For Children:

Oxygen Freejumping is the perfect high-energy destination for children who love to move. The park’s wall-to-wall trampolines, soft foam pits and fun obstacle courses provide a dynamic space for building coordination, confidence and core strength through play. For younger children, dedicated toddler sessions ensure a calm and safe environment where they can explore movement at their own pace. For older kids, the climbing walls, ninja courses and basketball hoops introduce new challenges in a supervised space. It’s a fantastic way for children to burn off energy, develop physical resilience and engage in active fun, rain or shine.

Must-Do Activities:

• Attend a toddler-friendly session.
• Dive into the foam zone.
• Try the climbing walls for added adventure.

Best for: Children aged 2 to 12

6. Northala Fields - Hills, Fish And Family Picnics

📍 Location: Westway Close, Northolt, UB5 6UR

Why It’s Great For Children:

Northala Fields offers a uniquely adventurous outdoor experience thanks to its distinctive man-made hills and natural ponds. Children will love the physical challenge of climbing the mounds for sweeping views of London and beyond, perfect for boosting stamina and confidence. The park’s layout is also ideal for exploring, with circular walking trails, fishing platforms and a large playground designed to cater for all ages. There's a sense of freedom and discovery here that encourages creativity and connection to the natural world. It’s also a great place for family picnics, bug hunting, and spontaneous outdoor games. For families seeking fresh air and open space, it’s a must-visit.

Must-Do Activities:

• Climb to the top of the hills for panoramic views.
• Try pond dipping or bring a net for mini fish spotting.
• Let the kids roam in the adventurous playground.

Best for: Families with children aged 3+

Final Thoughts

Ealing is brimming with hidden gems and wide-open spaces, offering families a wealth of opportunities to play, learn, and create lasting memories together. Whether it’s discovering wildlife, leaping around a trampoline park, or curling up with a storybook, there’s something here to ignite every child’s curiosity. Why not plan your next adventure close to home, and don’t forget to visit Fennies Ealing while you’re out and about!

Looking For A Nursery That Shares These Values?

‍Our Fennies Ealing nursery on Junction Road has been designed with the same sense of discovery! With bright learning spaces, inspiring outdoor areas and a curriculum that helps every child thrive.

If you’d like to see it for yourself, we’d love to show you around.‍

Book your visit to Fennies Ealing here ›