The school holidays have begun over recent weeks, whilst some will have chosen to head out of the city and even overseas, many of us will be here for most of this break and will likely be seeking activities and summer days out in West London for all the family to enjoy.
Recently we rounded up some of the best parks in West London, from Ravenscourt Park to Dukes Meadows and Chiswick House and Gardens – there are plenty of green spaces to be readily enjoyed free of charge in this part of London.
In this blog, we highlight specific family-orientated summer days out in West London.
Putt in the Park, Gunnersbury Park and Acton Park
West London is now home to two of the wonderful Putt in the Park mini golf centres. The Acton Park site has been open for some years and is also home to a very popular pizzeria.
The newer addition to West London is found at Gunnersbury Park alongside the large newly built sports centre.
It’s advisable to book your miniature golf session in advance via the Putt in the Park website. At both Gunnersbury Park and Acton Park there are extensive playgrounds and green spaces to be enjoyed on either side of your game of golf.
Westfield, Shepherd’s Bush
Westfield runs free events throughout the year but over the school holidays, they ensure they have activities in place for summer days out.
From Ocean Explorers where families can learn about issues affecting our Oceans and what we can do to protect them; an event that includes trampolines, arts and crafts and learning about recycling and upcycling, to celebrating LEGO’s 90th Anniversary where visitors can build and take home a classic red brick house, all free of charge, there’s usually something interesting going on. Check out Westfield’s website to see what’s on when.
Kew Gardens, Kew
The Botanical Kew Gardens is a real treat and a great place to spend the day with the family. From the large outdoor playground (which you need to book in advance) to the indoor play area, woodland walks and of course, beautiful extensive gardens to be enjoyed, an entire day can easily be spent at Kew Gardens.
Educational and interesting but also fun for younger children, Kew Gardens is popular with families and children of all ages. There are several places to stop for food and ice cream within the gardens.
There is a small car park, several buses run nearby and of course, the district line stops at Kew.
The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show, The Lyric Hammersmith
Sharing the four of Eric Carle’s tales; Brown Bear, 10 Little Rubber Ducks, The Very Lonely Firefly and of course The Very Hungry Caterpillar, this show includes puppets and music – perfect for younger children. The theatre guide age is 1+.
Before or after the show you can enjoy the delights on offer at the Outsider Tart or at the Lyric Bar, and of course, Ravenscourt Park is only a short walk away for a runaround.
Hobbledown Heath, Hounslow
Hobbledown Heath is a unique adventure park and zoo. There are over 70 farm and zoo animals on site which the children can see and learn about, together with four adventure play villages.
Catering to all ages of children, there are tunnels, towers to climb, and a mining village where children can uncover precious crystals and treehouses in the woods. There’s also one of the largest indoor play areas in London, meaning you’ll have a great day even if it rains. Book via the Hobbledown website.
Museum of Brands, Notting Hill
Taking visitors on a journey through 200 years of consumer culture, the Museum of Brands allows you to explore how consumer society has evolved since Victorian times.
Perhaps better suited to older children, the Museum of Brands is a fascinating day out in West London.
Biscuiteers, Notting Hill
Biscuiteers are known for offering beautiful hand-iced biscuit gifts, but few know about their icing cafes. There’s one just down the road in Notting Hill that would make a perfect day out this summer.
Whether you’re attending one of the School of Icing sessions or simply popping in to the cafe to ice a biscuit with a coffee it’s a real delight. Throughout the summer they’re hosting specific children’s icing classes. Just around the corner from the Museum of Brands, the two would make a wonderful day trip together.
WWT Wetland Centre, Barnes
Just up the road in Barnes is the WWT Wetland Centre which is a wonderful place to visit year-round but during the summer holidays they run The Junior Wetland Ranger sessions for children between the ages of 5 and 11.
The Wetlands are one of the best places to visit during the summer with a large adventure playground, splash pad and water pad for endless water play – so be sure to take a change of clothes for your children!
Minibeast Safari and Pond Dipping, Gunnersbury Park
Children aged 5+ can take part in this fun adventure to spot mini beasts and explore the hidden world of insects at Gunnersbury Park. This event must be booked online and is only running on certain days so be sure to reserve your ticket!
The London Museum of Water & Steam, Brentford
Just a short bus or car ride away from our Chiswick office is The London Museum of Water & Steam in Brentford.
Over the summer holidays, the museum is running activities including crafts, storytelling, and hands-on activities where children (and their parents!) can learn more about the network of pipes that supply water to our homes across London. Children go free.
Summer days out in West London
There are many activities and summer days out in West London to enjoy, for all ages and interests, we’ve included just a small selection of options.
There are also many parks in west London to be enjoyed free of charge. Many families also choose to become members of local sports clubs to enjoy all the facilities and summer camps on offer.
Whatever your plans for the summer break, we hope you have a thoroughly enjoyable few months and as always, if you’d like to discuss any property-related matters get in touch, without obligation.
