Discover the Hidden Gem of West London: A Delightful Park Featuring an Exotic Zoo and a Fun Maze for Kids

London offers a plethora of enjoyable activities for families during the summer months, yet discovering budget-friendly options can sometimes be a challenge. The city is often perceived as expensive, especially for parents seeking outings that won’t break the bank. Fortunately, there are delightful and affordable experiences available for those willing to explore a bit further. One such gem located in West London might just be the ideal destination for a cost-effective family day out.

Discovering the Charm of Brent Lodge Park

Brent Lodge Park, affectionately nicknamed the ‘Bunny Park’ due to its numerous rabbit sightings, is home to Hanwell Zoo in Hanwell, Ealing. This charming zoo is a sanctuary for a variety of birds and mammals, featuring an array of captivating inhabitants, including porcupines, meerkats, and flamingos. Children will particularly enjoy observing the lively lemurs, armadillos, and the delightful marmoset monkeys that reside there.

Visitors are encouraged to ‘go wild in west London’, and many reviews echo the sentiment of having a wonderful experience. The zoo has garnered impressive ratings on TripAdvisor, with families praising it as ‘perfect for a day out’ and ‘affordable fun for everyone’. One visitor humorously cautioned, ‘try not to let your children become as mischievous as the meerkats’. The zoo also boasts a reptile house, a butterfly house, and an aquarium, ensuring there is plenty to see and do.

Entry fees are remarkably reasonable, with tickets priced at just £5.50 for adults and £4 for children over the age of three. Additionally, children under three and their carers are admitted free of charge. This makes Hanwell Zoo an accessible option for families looking to enjoy a day filled with nature and adventure.

Fun Beyond the Zoo

Just a short stroll from the zoo, families can also explore Brent Lodge Playground and the Millennium Maze, a charming hedge maze that is reportedly ideal for toddlers, according to Google reviews. Both attractions are free to visit, making them excellent complements to a day at the zoo.

Hanwell Zoo is conveniently located at Church Rd, London, Hanwell, W7 3BP, and is merely a 12-minute walk from Hanwell station, accessible via the Elizabeth Line. The zoo operates from April 1 to September 10, with opening hours from 10am to 5pm, and from September 11 to March 31, it is open from 10am to 4pm. Tickets can be purchased online through the zoo’s website or at the on-site gift shop, with an accessible booking system available for convenience.

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