If you’re looking for a day out that feels like a mini seaside escape without battling the M25 for hours and roads all the way to the coast then Ruislip Lido is an absolute gem. Hidden away on the edge of the woods, this 60-acre lake with its sandy beach has serious “holiday vibes”.
We went as a family and it ticked so many boxes with a man made beach with park, cafe, small splash pad and train ride through the forest.
First up, the kids made a beeline for the beach. Buckets, spades, sandy toes – the whole lot. There’s something about seeing little ones running in and out of the shallow water that makes you forget you’re only in Greater London! Do note though – swimming isn’t allowed, so it’s more of a paddle-and-build-sandcastles situation.
The beach spans accross one side of the lake with lots of space to build sandcastles and benches for a picnic. There’s is a pirate ship on the sand and a climbing frame behind.
Then there’s the Ruislip Lido Railway, which is basically a dream for any train-mad child (and grown-up, let’s be real). The miniature train ride is fantastic and takes about 30 minutes through the woodland and back, which you can also take a walk through.
You can also use the train to take you back to the main car park if your children have had enough playing time. They even have a carriage for buggys.– short enough to keep the kids entertained, long enough for you to sit back and enjoy the scenery.
There’s a cafe with great ice cream, lunch and many toilet changing facilities and it’s worth worth mentioning there is also a resturant on site as you walk to the beach. If you wanted to stop for dinner before heading home Waters Edge serves pizza and carvery.
Parking can be a bit of a nightmare on sunny weekends, so arrive early if you’re driving. There are two car parks on site, Willow Lawn car park is for HillingdonFirst cardholders only. The main car park is situated at the end of Reservoir Road on the left and is for both holders & non-holders of the HillingdonFirst card and is chargeable.
All in all, Ruislip Lido is one of those places you can go back to again and again. It’s free (apart from parking and train rides), it’s fun for all ages, and it really does feel like a little slice of the seaside on your doorstep – a great alternative to going to the seaside.
