As we head into Summer, it’s getting warmer every day. Now is the perfect time to make picnic plans and enjoy the green spaces around Greenford. Relax, explore nature, or try a guided walk at one of the local parks and nature reserves on your doorstep.
Parks Within Greenford, Ealing
Northala Fields
Just a 10-minute cycle or a 30-minute bus ride from the Greenford Quay apartments, Northala Fields spans 27.5 hectares. This unique green space was created using waste from the original Wembley Stadium and the White City shopping centre. It has four large conical mounds designed to reduce noise pollution in the area.
The tallest mound, Northala Fields Viewpoint, offers a panoramic view of the surrounding area. Visitors can also enjoy the six fishing ponds in the park beside the San Remo Café. There are two car parks on site. The main one is on Kensington Road and has electric vehicle charging points.
Ravenor Park
Ravenor Park is a lush woodland retreat, only a 12-minute cycle or a 28-minute bus ride from Greenford Quay. The main entrance is on the park’s eastern side on Oldfield Road South. The area has many tree species, but the white poplars are especially common. South of the park, you’ll also find a small meadowland conservation area.
If you enjoy being active outdoors, there’s a multi-use games area for football and basketball. There is also a dedicated tennis court. The memorial garden is a peaceful spot for some quiet time and reflection.
Perivale Parks in Greenford
Several parks make up the Perivale green space. Just an 10-minute cycle or a 25 to 30-minute bus ride from Greenford Quay, the Perivale parks include:
- Pear Tree Park
A newer park bordered by the River Brent. Pear Tree Park is on Ruislip Road.
- Paradise Fields
Next to Horsenden Hill, Paradise Fields is predominantly a wetland area with ponds, reed beds, hedgerows, and wildflower meadows.
- Perivale Park and Meadows
Part of the larger Brent River Park, Perivale Park has several sports and outdoor fitness facilities. You’ll find football pitches, cricket pitches and the Perivale Park Athletics Track and Gym.
Horsenden Hill (Local Nature Reserve)
Horsenden Hill Nature Reserve is the largest nature conservation area in the borough of Ealing, spanning over 100 hectares. It’s a rich archaeological site. Researchers have excavated artefacts from the Neolithic, Roman, Saxon, Tudor, and Victorian eras. This fantastic spot for a guided nature walk is just a seven-minute cycle or a half-hour walk from Greenford Quay.
The nature reserve is so close that you can see it from the top floors of The Glassworks building. Enjoy the scenery while you work out in the gym or complete your asana flows in the yoga studio. Horsenden Hill is also visible from a selection of Glassworks’ apartments and the rooftop terrace!
Grove Farm Local Nature Reserve, Ealing
Grove Farm is a woodland and meadow site, only a 13-minute walk or four-minute cycle from Greenford Quay. The site regularly hosts conservation volunteering events like litter picking. There are also guided walks, including the Spring Walk to discover different plant species and the Bat Walk between 8 and 9 pm.
Green Spaces Nearby Greenford
Osterley Park and House
Osterley House and the surrounding land belong to the National Trust and are a 23-minute car ride from Greenford Quay. The estate features a formal 18th-century garden with herbs, vegetable beds and a greenhouse that has stood since 1780. Dogs are welcome on a lead, though access to the formal gardens is limited to off-peak seasons.
The Stables Café is a popular stop-off for coffee and lunch. Meanwhile, visitors can explore the main house from Wednesday to Sunday. There’s also a gift shop and a bookshop to browse when you’re done.
Gunnersbury Park and Museum
Spanning 72 hectares of Grade II* listed parkland, Gunnersbury Park once belonged to Princess Amelia (daughter of George II). It is known for its formal gardens and tranquil lakes, perfect for boating during the summer months. Visitors can take part in a weekly 5km park run on Saturday mornings or rent pedalos on the lake. Meanwhile, the Gunnersbury Museum has over 50,000 items that trace the history of the estate and local area.
Explore the available properties at Greenford Quay and enjoy the parks and nature reserves around Ealing this summer.
