Curious about the best places to live in West London? Ealing might just be what you’re looking for. Known for its strong community spirit, superb transport connections, diverse housing options, and beautiful parks, Ealing offers a unique blend of city life and suburban peace. In this article, we outline the top reasons to move to Ealing and why it could be your perfect new home.
Key Takeaways
- Ealing offers a strong sense of community with plenty of local events and clubs, making it an attractive place for families and individuals looking for a balanced lifestyle.
- The borough boasts excellent transport links, including National Rail and Underground services, providing quick and easy access to Central London.
- Ealing combines diverse residential areas, quality education, ample green spaces, and a vibrant cultural and dining scene, making it an ideal place to live.
Why Ealing Stands Out
Ealing, known as the ‘Queen of the Suburbs,’ is a gem nestled in West London. With its affluent residential character and picturesque environment, it’s no wonder that Ealing has earned this regal nickname. Located a mere 7.5 miles west of Charing Cross, Ealing offers the perfect balance between vibrant city life and peaceful suburban living.
Steeped in history, Ealing was once considered part of Middlesex, adding to its rich cultural tapestry. Today, it is a lively community boasting numerous local events and festivals every summer that bring the community together in celebration. Imagine having everything you need right at your doorstep without the need to venture into central London – this is the charm of Ealing.
Vibrant Community Life
Ealing is not just a place to live; it’s a community that thrives on togetherness and shared experiences. Known as the ‘Queen of the Suburbs’, Ealing offers a lively community life with numerous local events, including festivals every summer that turn the area into a vibrant hub of activity. Imagine spending your weekends enjoying local festivals, theatre productions, or even joining a wine-tasting club.
The community here is incredibly supportive, with diverse clubs and groups catering to a wide range of interests, including the Soho House Group. Whether you’re into:
- theatre
- choir
- beekeeping
- sports like hockey and football
There’s something for everyone. This sense of community and the availability of local amenities make Ealing an attractive place for young families and individuals looking for a balanced lifestyle.
Excellent Transport Links
One of the standout features of Ealing is its excellent transport links, making it a commuter’s dream. With both National Rail and Underground services at your disposal, getting to Central London and beyond is a breeze. The area is well-serviced by the Central, District, and Piccadilly lines, providing quick access to the West End in just 30 minutes.
Imagine hopping on a train and reaching Paddington in just 10 minutes – First Great Western trains make this possible. Ealing’s strategic location, just 7.5 miles west of Charing Cross, ensures that you’re never too far from the action while enjoying the tranquillity of suburban life.
Whether it’s for work or leisure, Ealing’s transport links make it an incredibly convenient place to live.
Diverse Residential Areas
Ealing is a tapestry of diverse residential areas, each offering its unique charm and lifestyle. From the bustling heart of Ealing Broadway to the quieter, family-friendly streets of West Ealing and the historical allure of South Ealing, there’s a place for everyone here. Ealing’s multicultural district is characterised by spacious Victorian homes and a mix of modern and countryside ambience, blending shopping malls with Victorian houses.
Ealing’s multicultural district is characterised by spacious Victorian homes and a mix of modern and countryside ambience …
Let’s take a closer look at some of the notable residential areas in Ealing: Ealing Broadway, West Ealing, and South Ealing. Each of these areas offers something distinct, catering to different preferences and needs.
Ealing Broadway
Ealing Broadway is the bustling heart of the borough, popular with young professionals, families, and students alike. The area is a commercial and residential hub, offering a wide range of amenities, including:
- Shops
- Cafes
- Restaurants
- Vibrant nightlife
- Pubs and bars All of these are easily accessible from the Ealing Broadway Station.
Imagine stepping out of your door and having access to all of these options, making your evenings enjoyable.
In addition to its commercial appeal, Ealing Broadway is home to several parks and green spaces, including Haven Green, providing a perfect balance between urban living and nature. Whether you’re looking for a lively atmosphere or a peaceful retreat, Ealing Broadway offers the best of both worlds.
West Ealing
West Ealing is a haven for young families and first-time buyers, offering a suburban feel that is both welcoming and convenient. The area is home to several good primary and secondary schools, making it an ideal choice for families looking for quality education for their children. Just a stone’s throw away from North Ealing, imagine your children playing in Dean Gardens or Drayton Green, enjoying the ample green space and children’s play areas that contribute to the family-friendly environment.
Transport links in West Ealing are also a significant draw, providing easy access to Central London for commuters. The combination of good schools, green spaces, and convenient transport make West Ealing a desirable place to live for families and commuters alike.
South Ealing
South Ealing is a treasure trove of historical charm, known for its Victorian and Edwardian houses. The area is near the well-known Ealing Studios, making it an attractive option for those interested in film and media. Imagine living in a place where history meets modern convenience, with local shops, cafes, and restaurants just a stone’s throw away.
The blend of historical architecture and local amenities in South Ealing offers a unique living experience that caters to both nostalgia and contemporary needs. Whether you’re a history buff or someone who appreciates the finer things in life, South Ealing is sure to impress.
Green Spaces and Parks
Ealing is a green oasis within the urban sprawl of London, boasting numerous parks and green spaces that provide residents with ample opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. Whether you’re looking for a place to take a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or engage in sports activities, Ealing’s parks cater to all needs.
Among the notable green spaces in Ealing are:
- Walpole Park
- Ealing Common
- Montpelier Park
- Blondin Park
These green spaces host community festivals and offer various recreational activities, making them integral to the community life in Ealing.
Walpole Park
Walpole Park is a gem in West London, featuring a walled rose garden, a semi-formal rest garden with a wildlife pond, and a larger pond with a fountain. Imagine spending your afternoons in this beautiful park, surrounded by natural beauty and tranquillity. It’s an ideal spot for relaxation and recreation, offering something for everyone.
Ealing Common
Ealing Common is a spacious park that’s perfect for picnics, sports, and family activities. The wide-open spaces make it ideal for various outdoor activities, while the playgrounds cater to families with children.
With cafes offering refreshments, it’s a great place to spend a sunny afternoon in the heart of Ealing.
Other Green Spaces
Beyond the larger parks, Ealing offers several smaller green spaces that add to the borough’s charm. Some of these include:
- Brent Lodge Park, also known as Bunny Park, which features the Millenium Maze, sports areas, children’s play areas, and Hanwell Zoo
- Blondin Park, which offers nature areas and recreational facilities
- Glade Lane Canal-side Park, which also offers nature areas and recreational facilities
NOTE
All of these parks offer residents a variety of options for outdoor enjoyment, from tranquil walks to energetic sporting events. Each park is designed to enhance the quality of life for all who visit, providing a perfect escape into nature within the city.
Quality Education
Ealing is renowned for its quality education, with a good selection of state-run and private schools. Many of these schools boast ‘Outstanding’ ratings from Ofsted, ensuring that children receive top-notch education. For instance, Drayton Manor High School and Ada Lovelace Church of England High School are both highly rated and cater to students aged 11-19.
In addition to state schools, Ealing is home to several independent schools like St Benedict’s School and Notting Hill and Ealing High School for Girls. These independent schools also have excellent reputations, offering parents a variety of choices for their children’s education. The presence of good schools makes Ealing an attractive place for families looking to provide the best for their children.
Shopping and Dining
Shopping and dining in Ealing is a delightful experience, with a variety of options to choose from. Some highlights include:
- The Ealing Broadway Shopping Centre, a recently refurbished hub, offers major retail stores, restaurants, cafes, a gym, and a cinema.
- Ealing also has a range of high-street chain shops for those looking for familiar brands.
- There are plenty of restaurants and cafes in Ealing where you can enjoy a leisurely meal.
Ealing truly has it all when it comes to shopping and dining.
In addition to shopping centres, Ealing is renowned for its top bars and restaurants. From Santa Maria’s award-winning Neapolitan-style pizzas to the modern European menu at The Grove, there’s something to satisfy every palate. The vibrant dining scene adds to the charm of living in Ealing, making it a great place for food lovers.
Ealing Broadway Shopping Centre
The Ealing Broadway Shopping Centre offers:
- A modern shopping destination with a variety of amenities
- High street chain shops
- Diverse dining options
- Leisure facilities
The recent £14 million refurbishment has transformed the centre into a more attractive and contemporary space.
The shopping centre also includes a cinema, providing entertainment options for residents. Whether you’re looking for retail therapy or a fun day out, the Ealing Broadway Shopping Centre has everything you need.
Local Restaurants and Cafes
Ealing’s local restaurants and cafes offer a variety of dining experiences that cater to different tastes. Santa Maria is celebrated for its award-winning Neapolitan-style pizzas, making it a must-visit for pizza lovers. For those who prefer a cosy cafe atmosphere, Electric Coffee Co. serves a variety of breakfast and lunch offerings, including pastries, sandwiches, and smoothies.
The diverse dining options in Ealing ensure that residents can enjoy a wide range of culinary delights without having to travel far. From casual cafes to fine dining, Ealing’s food scene is vibrant and inviting.
Rich Cultural Heritage
Ealing’s rich cultural heritage is one of its standout features. The borough is home to significant cultural sites like Pitzhanger Manor and Gunnersbury Park Museum, both of which are open to the public. Ealing Studios, established in 1910, is a cornerstone of the area’s film industry. Imagine living in a place with such deep cultural roots and a thriving arts scene.
The cultural vibrancy of Ealing is further highlighted by the numerous festivals and events that take place throughout the year. From the Ealing Summer Festivals to the Walpole Park jazz and comedy festivals, there’s always something exciting happening in Ealing. This rich cultural heritage contributes to the unique character and appeal of the borough.
Safety and Low Crime Rates
Safety is a top priority for anyone considering a new place to live, and Ealing excels in this area. It is considered one of the top 20 safest boroughs in London, with a low overall crime rate. In fact, 95% of residents reported feeling safe living in Ealing, which speaks volumes about the community’s confidence in their environment.
The Safer Ealing Partnership works tirelessly to reduce crime and enhance the feeling of safety among locals. The crime rate in Ealing, at 105 crimes per 1,000 people, is marginally higher than the rest of London by only 0.09%, making it a reassuringly safe place to call home. This sense of security is a significant draw for families and individuals alike.
Thriving Arts Scene
Ealing boasts a thriving arts scene that is both dynamic and diverse. The Questors Theatre, founded in 1929, is one of the largest amateur theatres in Europe, offering a rich array of performances throughout the year. Ealing Studios, a cornerstone of the area’s film industry established in 1910, continues to be a hub of creative activity.
The borough hosts a variety of festivals, including the Hanwell Hootie, the largest free one-day music festival in London, the newly introduced New Gen festival, and the Ealing Jazz Festival. These events, along with numerous amateur and professional arts organisations, contribute to Ealing’s vibrant cultural landscape. Whether you’re an artist or an art enthusiast, Ealing’s arts scene offers endless opportunities to engage and be inspired.
Rapid Development and New Builds
Ealing is experiencing rapid development, making it an exciting time to move to the area. New residential projects are emerging, particularly in West Ealing, providing modern apartments and increased housing options. This development is supported by Ealing Council, which is actively working to meet the growing demand for housing. With the ongoing changes, it’s essential to keep an eye on Ealing house prices to make informed decisions.
Young families and professionals are particularly drawn to these new builds, which offer contemporary living spaces and amenities. The ongoing development is transforming Ealing’s landscape, enhancing its appeal and making it an increasingly popular choice for new residents.
Summary
Ealing truly offers the best of London living, blending the charm of suburban tranquillity with the convenience of urban amenities. From its vibrant community life and excellent transport links to diverse residential areas and lush green spaces, Ealing has something for everyone. The borough’s commitment to quality education, rich cultural heritage, and thriving arts scene further enhance its appeal.
With ongoing development and new residential projects, Ealing is poised for continued growth and popularity. Whether you’re a young professional, a family, or someone looking for a safe and dynamic place to live, Ealing has it all. Consider making Ealing your new home and experience the unique blend of history, culture, and modern living that this wonderful borough has to offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Ealing a good place for families?
Ealing is great for families because it has excellent schools, parks, and safe residential areas. It’s a perfect place to raise a family.
How are the transport links in Ealing?
Transport links in Ealing are excellent, with National Rail and Underground services offering easy access to Central London and beyond.
Are there good shopping and dining options in Ealing?
Absolutely! Ealing offers a great selection of shopping and dining options, such as the Ealing Broadway Shopping Centre and a range of local restaurants and cafes. So, you’ll have plenty of choices to explore.
What kind of cultural activities can I find in Ealing?
Ealing offers a rich cultural experience with festivals, arts organisations, and historic sites like Ealing Studios and The Questors Theatre. You’ll find a variety of cultural activities to explore.
Is Ealing a safe place to live?
Yes, Ealing is considered one of the top 20 safest boroughs in London, with a low overall crime rate and strong community safety initiatives, so it’s generally a safe place to live.
