In London, your sub region (whether residential, work related or where you go for playtime) is an important part of you. It’s a staple conversation starter and you’ll hear everything from, ‘they have amazing cocktail bars’ to ‘I’ve never seen a need to go there…but I’m sure it’s great’. Each sub region comes with its own ups and downs, and of course stereotypes. But West London remains rather elusive and discreet. It houses the UKs busiest airport, Heathrow, and draws more than 10,000 students annually through the University of West London doors. It’s also home to serene greenery, cosy pubs and unique events. Whether you’re a regular or a newbie to West London, we’ve rounded up 10 of the best things to do in the area.
Syon House
Syon House and its 200-acre park belong to the Duke Of Northumberland and his family. The history goes deep; back to Henry V111 times. You can visit the house, garden and great conservatory for just £12.50 and marvel at the grand scale and beautiful architecture. Book your tickets here.
Syon Park, Brentford, TW8 8JF
Notting Hill Carnival
One of the best annual events in West London is Notting Hill carnival. It sprung to life from the Trinidad Carnival, and brought in 500 visitors in 1966; it now attracts more than 1 million people. This year it takes place on 26th, 27th and 28th August. Enjoy all things Caribbean – music, food, fashion and more.
Notting Hill/Ladbroke Grove/Westbourne Grove
Ruislip Lido
Way, way in the West lays a little slice of water heaven perfect for the hotter days. Ruislip Lido opened in 1933 and has been through some tough times; financial ruin, vandalism and disrepair. However, its been brought back to life after extensive work and is now a wonderful boating and swimming area.
Ruislip Lido, Reservoir Road, Ruislip, HA4 7TY
The Pheasant
These are the biggest portions of food you’ll ever see in your life (and the possibly the most satisfying menu you’ll read too). The Pheasant is a wonderfully understated restaurant serving some seriously tasty dishes. There’s an extensive menu, ample parking and plenty of space inside and outside on warmer days.
98 West End Lane, Harlington, Hayes, UB3 5LX
Hanwell Zoo
Brent Lodge Park is an example of West London’s greatest ability – to bring tranquillity and peace outside city life. Inside the park head to Hanwell Zoo (formerly the Animal Centre) to get close to a range of mammals, birds and reptiles. Tickets are only £2.50 for adults and £1 for a child.
Brent Lodge Park, 204 Church Road, London, W7 3BP
London Transport Museum Depot
The West London branch of the Transport Museum holds the majority of the collections which you won’t see in the main museum in Covent Garden. The next open weekend will open on the 23rd and 24th September. From talks about the significance of moquette fabric, to workshops bringing transport design to life, you can discover more about the system that moves us around the capital.
118-120 Gunnersbury Road, London, W3 9BQ
Pergola On The Roof
Head to POTR if you want to be surrounded by glorious fresh flowers and drink some impeccable cocktails on the rooftop of a multi-storey car park. This is the best rooftop bar in West London and it’s not just a pretty looking thing; they’re also offering a FREE DRINK right now when you sign up here.
Multi-Storey Car Park, Television Centre, Wood Lane, London, W12 7RJ
Hampton Court Palace
This historic palace is home to some glorious summer events. This year visit the outdoor Luna cinema, screening films on the East Front Lawns with the palace and dramatic floodlighting as your backdrop or explore the maze. The BBC Good Food’s Feast also takes place from 26th-28th August.
Molesey, East Molesey, KT8 9AU
Opera Holland Park
Opera Holland Park is one of the most exciting opera companies around and they produce both rare and classical pieces set within the beautiful surroundings of Holland Park. Could it get more sophisticated? Throughout July, catch three new productions and the return of 2009’s highly acclaimed, Káťa Kabanová.
Stable Yard, Holland Park, London, W8 6LU
West London Wine School
If you’ve got a passion for wine, we recommend wine tasting at the West London Wine School. Tickets start from £25 includes tasting 6 different wines, food tasting and a tutored tasting session. There’s an extensive range of courses; from a cheese and wine experience to an 8-week wine introductory course.
71 Townmead Rd, Fulham, London, SW6 2ST
Written by Nikki