Ealing — often called “The Queen of the Suburbs” — is one of London’s most vibrant and greenest boroughs. Stretching from Acton in the east to Southall in the west, it blends leafy streets and Victorian architecture with buzzing town centres, modern transport links and a strong sense of community. Whether you’re here to live, work, study or explore, Ealing offers something for everyone.
A Little History
Ealing’s story goes back over a thousand years, with references in the Domesday Book and evidence of settlements even earlier. During the 19th century, the arrival of the Great Western Railway and later the Underground transformed it from rural villages into a sought-after suburb. Today, Ealing retains its historic charm while embracing modern life, from the famous Ealing Studios — birthplace of the iconic comedies — to thriving arts venues and lively cafés.
Green Spaces & Outdoor Life
One of Ealing’s greatest assets is its abundance of parks and open spaces:
- Walpole Park – A beautifully landscaped park with ornamental ponds, a playground and Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery.
- Lammas Park, Pitshanger Park & Blondin Park – Perfect for walks, sports or family picnics.
- Ealing Common & Acton Green – Large grassy areas ideal for relaxing on sunny days.
- The Grand Union Canal and Brent River Park provide scenic walking and cycling routes.
With over 1,000 acres of parkland, Ealing is a haven for runners, dog-walkers, families and anyone who enjoys fresh air close to the city.
Shopping, Food & Drink
From high-street favourites at Ealing Broadway shopping centre to independent boutiques and vintage stores, retail therapy is easy here. The borough has a fantastic food scene too:
- Traditional pubs serving Sunday roasts.
- Global restaurants — from South Asian cuisine in Southall to Japanese, Italian and Middle Eastern spots around Ealing Broadway.
- Weekend farmers’ markets offering fresh, local produce.
Cafés, craft beer taprooms and cocktail bars give plenty of choice for a relaxed brunch or an evening out.
Culture & Entertainment
Ealing has a proud cultural heritage. Ealing Studios, Britain’s oldest working film studio, continues to produce TV and movies. Local theatres like the Questors Theatre host plays, musicals and comedy, while annual festivals celebrate jazz, beer, comedy and more. Art galleries, music venues and pop-up exhibitions add to the creative mix.
Getting Around
Ealing is extremely well connected:
- The Tube (Central, District, Piccadilly lines) runs through the borough.
- The Elizabeth line links Ealing Broadway, West Ealing and Southall with Paddington, the West End, Canary Wharf and Heathrow.
- National Rail services connect to Reading, Oxford and beyond.
- A comprehensive bus network and good cycling routes make local travel simple.
Driving is straightforward too, with access to the A40, A4/M4 and North Circular, plus plenty of car-sharing, electric charging and taxi options.
Living in Ealing
Ealing offers a welcoming mix of housing — from Edwardian terraces to new riverside apartments. Schools, universities and language colleges attract families and students alike. Community groups, sports clubs and volunteering opportunities make it easy to meet people and get involved.
Discover Ealing
Whether you’re enjoying a picnic in Walpole Park, catching a film at Ealing Studios, tasting street food in Southall or hopping on the Tube for a quick trip to the West End, Ealing is a place where history, culture, nature and modern living meet.
Come and discover why generations of Londoners have chosen to call Ealing home — and why visitors keep coming back.