Things to Do in the London Borough of Ealing 

13–19 October 2026

Looking for things to do in Ealing this autumn?

From exploring historic houses and discovering independent cinemas to walking through ancient woodland, visiting family attractions and enjoying Southall's food culture, the London Borough of Ealing offers plenty of reasons to get out and explore.

This week's Discover Ealing guide focuses on places you can visit throughout the season, rather than the one-off events covered in our separate What's On in Ealing guide.

1. Explore the Autumn Colours at Walpole Park – Ealing

 

 

October is a wonderful time to rediscover Walpole Park. With mature trees, landscaped gardens, ponds and open lawns, the park offers an easy escape from the surrounding town centre.

The park was once part of the estate belonging to Sir John Soane's Pitzhanger Manor. Today, visitors can enjoy its historic landscape, relax beside the water or explore the gardens.

For a longer outing, combine a walk through the park with a visit to Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery next door.

Location: Mattock Lane, Ealing W5.

Walpole Park – visitor information

2. Discover Southall's Food Culture – Southall

 

 

One of the best things to do in Southall is to explore its food culture. The neighbourhood is famous for its Punjabi and wider South Asian influences, with restaurants, cafés, bakeries and sweet shops offering a remarkable variety of flavours.

For a specific place to visit, try Brilliant Restaurant on Western Road, known for its Punjabi cooking. Another option is Saravanaa Bhavan, which specialises in South Indian vegetarian food.

Leave time to explore the shops along Southall Broadway and South Road, where specialist ingredients, traditional sweets and street snacks are part of the experience.

Location: Southall Broadway, South Road and Western Road, Southall.

3. Visit the Animals at Hanwell Zoo – Hanwell

 

 

 

Tucked away inside Brent Lodge Park, Hanwell Zoo is one of the borough's most enjoyable family attractions.

The small community zoo is home to a variety of mammals and birds, including meerkats and flamingos. Its manageable size makes it particularly suitable for families with younger children.

After visiting the zoo, spend some time exploring Brent Lodge Park, which also has a playground, open spaces and riverside walks.

Location: Church Road, Hanwell W7 3BP.

Hanwell Zoo – official visitor information

Brent Lodge Park – park information

4. Walk Through Ancient Woodland at Horsenden Hill – Greenford & Perivale

 

 

For a countryside experience without leaving London, head to Horsenden Hill.

The 100-hectare conservation area contains ancient woodland, meadows, ponds and wildlife habitats. At 84 metres above sea level, the summit is the highest point in the borough and offers panoramic views across west London.

You can also explore Horsenden Farm at the foot of the hill, or extend your walk towards the Grand Union Canal.

Location: Horsenden Lane North, Greenford UB6.

Horsenden Hill – conservation area information

Horsenden Farm

5. Discover Independent Cinema at ActOne – Acton

 

 

For a different kind of evening out, visit ActOne Cinema.

Housed in Acton's historic former public library, the independent community cinema offers a programme ranging from new releases and classics to independent films, special screenings and cultural events.

The building itself is worth seeing, and the cinema's café provides somewhere to relax before or after a screening.

You can combine your visit with dinner or drinks around Acton High Street or Churchfield Road.

Location: 119–121 High Street, Acton W3 6NA.

ActOne Cinema – films and visitor information

6. Climb the Hills at Northala Fields – Northolt

 

 

One of the borough's most unusual landscapes can be found at Northala Fields.

The park's four distinctive artificial hills were created using material from major London redevelopment projects, including the original Wembley Stadium. Visitors can climb the winding paths to enjoy panoramic views across west London.

Below the hills are lakes, wildlife habitats, playgrounds and open spaces, making this an excellent free day out for families.

Location: Kensington Road, Northolt UB5.

Northala Fields – specific park information

7. Explore the Exhibitions at Gunnersbury Park Museum – Ealing & Acton

 

 

Gunnersbury Park Museum is an excellent choice for a free cultural afternoon.

The museum tells the story of west London's communities through its historical collections, while the surrounding park offers space for walking and relaxing.

There are three exhibitions worth discovering this autumn: Human Nature, a photography exhibition curated by young people; Spot The Difference: A Walk Through Time, exploring Gunnersbury's history; and Gunnersbury Unlocked, celebrating a century of the park being open to the public.

The museum is normally open Tuesday–Sunday, 10am–4:30pm, with free admission.

Location: Gunnersbury Park House, Popes Lane, Ealing W5 4NH.

Gunnersbury Park Museum – visitor information

Specific Gunnersbury exhibitions

8. Discover Sir John Soane's Pitzhanger Manor – Ealing

 

 

At Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery, visitors can discover the former country home of celebrated architect Sir John Soane.

The restored manor combines architectural history with contemporary art exhibitions. Until 8 November 2026, visitors can also enjoy Clare Woods: Garden Without Seasons, featuring 29 new and recent paintings, prints and collages inspired by the natural world.

General admission is £14 for adults and £7 for students, with free admission for under-16s and members. The ticket includes the historic house and exhibition.

Location: Ealing Green, W5 5EQ.

Visit Pitzhanger Manor

Clare Woods: Garden Without Seasons – exhibition details

9. Discover Southall's Sri Guru Singh Sabha Gurdwara – Southall

 

 

 

Southall is home to one of the most significant Sikh religious buildings outside India, the Sri Guru Singh Sabha Gurdwara.

The building is a striking landmark, with its distinctive architecture and impressive prayer hall. The gurdwara is also an important centre of community life and Sikh culture.

Visitors should respect the religious customs of the building, including covering their heads, removing shoes and dressing modestly. Check visitor arrangements before attending.

Location: Havelock Road, Southall UB2 4NP.

Sri Guru Singh Sabha Southall – official website

10. Discover the Historic Church at Old Perivale – Perivale

 

 

Hidden away in Old Perivale is St Mary's Church, a remarkable reminder of the area's medieval past.

The church dates from the twelfth century and is one of the oldest surviving buildings in the borough. Today, the historic church is also associated with classical music performances.

Even when there isn't a concert taking place, the surrounding area provides an interesting destination for walkers exploring Perivale's quieter streets and green spaces. Check access arrangements before visiting the interior.

Location: Perivale Lane, Perivale UB6 8SS.

St Mary's Perivale – church and concert information

Discover More of the London Borough of Ealing

From Southall's food culture and historic gurdwara to Hanwell's zoo, Acton's independent cinema, Northolt's hills and the countryside around Greenford and Perivale, the borough offers an impressive variety of local experiences.

Whether you're looking for free things to do in Ealing, family days out, places to visit this weekend or hidden gems in west London, there's always another neighbourhood worth exploring.

And if you're looking specifically for events happening this week or this weekend, our separate What's On in the Borough of Ealing guide covers the latest events and activities.