Driving in Ealing
Travelling by car in and around Ealing can be convenient, especially for shopping trips, school runs, or exploring nearby countryside — but it helps to know the main routes, parking options, and local driving rules before you set off.
Key Roads & Routes
- A40 (Western Avenue) – A fast dual carriageway linking Ealing with central London (via Paddington) to the east and the M40, Oxford and the Midlands to the west.
- A406 (North Circular Road) – Runs along the eastern edge of the borough, connecting to the M1 and the North London suburbs.
- Uxbridge Road (A4020) – Ealing's main high-street route, running east-west through Acton, Ealing Broadway, Hanwell and Southall.
- M4 / A4 – Just south of the borough; gives direct access to Heathrow Airport, Reading, Slough and central London via Chiswick.
Parking in Ealing
- Town-centre car parks – Multi-storey and surface options at Ealing Broadway, West Ealing, Acton and Southall.
- On-street bays – Pay-and-display or cashless (RingGo/PayByPhone). Always check signs for time limits and resident restrictions.
- Park & Ride – Limited spaces near some Tube and rail stations (e.g. Ealing Broadway, Perivale) — arrive early on weekdays.
Driving Tips & Restrictions
- Low Traffic Neighbourhoods (LTNs) – Some residential streets have restricted through-routes to cut 'rat-running'; plan your route ahead to avoid fines.
- Bus lanes & camera enforcement – Only enter during permitted hours or you may receive a penalty charge.
- ULEZ – Most of the borough is inside the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ). Check your vehicle's compliance online before travelling. Ealing is outside the central London Congestion Charge zone.
- 20mph zones – Many residential roads have a 20mph limit to improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists.
Car Hire, Taxis & Ridesharing
- National brands and local firms offer car hire from Ealing Broadway, West Ealing and Southall.
- Licensed minicabs and black cabs are available at ranks or via app bookings.
- Rideshare services like Uber and Bolt operate across the borough.
Electric Vehicles
- Public charging points are increasing, with fast chargers at car parks, supermarkets and some residential streets. Check apps like Zap-Map for live availability.
- A growing number of local minicab fleets now use electric or hybrid cars, helping to cut emissions.
Why Drive in Ealing?
- Flexible – Handy for school runs, shopping or trips to areas not well served by public transport.
- Gateway to the West – Quick links to Heathrow, the M4, M25 and M40.
- Scenic options – Short drives to Richmond Park, Kew Gardens or along the Thames make great weekend outings.
While public transport is often the quickest way to reach central London, driving in Ealing can be practical for local journeys, family outings, or when carrying heavy shopping — just allow extra time during rush hour and always check parking or camera restrictions before setting off.