Ruislip Lido Beach — Attraction in London

I have such a feeling of peace when I arrive at the lido and look out across the water at the view, there really is something special about it, even on a grey cloudy day. We love it here and travel some time and distance by tube and bus to make the trip. Ruislip lido is one of the best places I know for a good day out, it's best in warm weather where you can enjoy being outside. On a hot, sunny day it does get incredibly packed. It's a great place to take kids, family, friends, dogs etc. The balance between pub and restaurant on one side of the lake with a cafe on the other really makes everything easy. From Ruislip station take bus H13 towards Ruislip Lido, it's the last stop next to the Waters Edge Pub and Restaurant which do good value (although somewhat hit and miss food with hit and miss service). You can start or end your day here, good for a filling lunch or an end of the day supper. There is also a carpark (free for three hours if visiting the Water's Edge and £5 for 5 hours if not - make sure you park on the right side!) To the left you will find Willow Lawn station for the Ruislip (narrow gauge) railway. The ticket office can sell you a single or return trip to the other side of the lido where the yellow beach shimmers at you from across the water. The little railway runs through nice woodland and grassland around the lake to Woody Bay station (about a 10 minute ride). You can also opt to walk round instead and the path is quite clear and well trodden. It's a lovely walk manageable for young children (about 20/25 minutes) through the woodland. For the quicker walking route but not as pretty head to the right hand side instead (about 10 mins). On the other side you will find the beach, children's playground and water play area as well as a cafe. There are no lifeguards and you are not supposed to swim but lots of people do go for a paddle in the water. It's a nice place to sit and chill out, have a picnic, cup of tea or coffee or indulge in an ice-cream. There are tables and benches dotted around (or bring a mat and sit on the sand). Kids are happy playing and time goes by...

A trip to Ruislip Lido offers a surprisingly authentic beach experience right on the edge of London, but it’s a day out that comes with some important caveats. It's a fantastic destination for families with young children, but perhaps not the idyllic seaside escape some might envision.

The main draw is undoubtedly the large, sandy beach that edges a 60-acre lake. It's a great space for kids to play, build sandcastles, and enjoy the impressive pirate ship playground. On a sunny day, you could almost convince yourself you're by the coast. The addition of a splash park provides a safe way for little ones to cool off, which is a necessary substitute for a dip in the lake.

Another highlight is the charming miniature railway, which is Britain's longest 12-inch gauge railway. It’s a delightful way to see the surrounding woodlands and adds a touch of nostalgia to the visit. The walk around the lake itself is pleasant, and the whole area is a designated nature reserve, offering a slice of tranquility.

However, there are two major points to be aware of. Firstly, and most importantly, swimming is strictly forbidden in the lake. This is due to safety concerns and water quality issues, including the presence of "swimmer's itch." While you may see people paddling at the water's edge, it is strongly advised against.

Secondly, parking is extremely limited and can be a source of significant frustration. The car parks fill up very quickly on weekends and sunny days, and the surrounding residential streets have strict parking controls. It is highly recommended to use public transport; the H13 bus runs directly...

Ruislip Lido is a man made lake with a beach and family area on one side. Generally the area is lovely the walks around the lake are lovely, very accessible and mostly flat.

The pub opposite the beach (The WatersEdge) is not worth visiting it only appeals to the captive audience. It’s expensive for what it is and the food is mediocre at best.

If you plan to visit the Lido on a warm or hot day avoid avoid avoid!!! Unless you get there early and I mean early you will struggle to find a space on the sand or surrounding area.

Important- Please do not let your pets or children in the water, there are red flags displayed for a reason and it’s not down to dangerous currents, it’s because of the risk of infection from the amount of algae, bird poo etc that festers in the stagnant water.

Parking - very expensive unless you are a Hillingdon parking permit holder! Do not park in the roads surrounding the lido as there are always plenty of enforcement officers that do regular patrols and they do ticket and tow offenders.

The lido is served by the bus network and there isn t a tube station in easy walking distance. (Ruislip is about a half hour walk)

My recommendation is avoid the Ruislip lido! Instead visit Colne Valley country park or...