Photo: Google
Photo: Google
Photo: Google
Ealing Central Library
★3.5(143 reviews)FreeLibrary
🕑 45 minutes to 1.5 hours👶 Best for ages 0-10. Babies and toddlers enjoy story time sessions with songs and rhymes, while preschoolers and primary school children benefit from the reading programs, craft activities, and dedicated children's section with age-appropriate books.
About
Ealing Central Library is a welcoming community hub offering free children's programs, regular story time sessions, and extensive resources for young learners. Located in the heart of Ealing Broadway, this library provides a quiet, air-conditioned retreat where kids can explore books, participate in educational activities, and enjoy structured programming led by friendly staff.
Highlights
- ✓Regular story time sessions with interactive reading and singing
- ✓Extensive children's book collection including picture books and early readers
- ✓Free educational programs and holiday activities during school breaks
- ✓Dedicated children's area with comfortable seating for families
- ✓Computers and digital resources for older children
Pro Tips
- 1.Check the library's website before visiting to see the current story time schedule, as these popular sessions typically run on specific weekday mornings and may require advance registration.
- 2.Visitors from abroad can obtain a free temporary library membership by showing your passport and proof of your London accommodation address.
- 3.The library is located on the first floor (second floor in American terms) of The Broadway shopping center, so use the lifts or escalators near the main entrance.
- 4.Visit on Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday when the library stays open until 7:00 PM, giving you flexibility after other daytime activities.
- 5.Ealing Broadway has excellent transport links with both Underground and National Rail services, making it easy to reach from central London in about 20 minutes.
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings (10:00 AM to 12:00 PM) are ideal for story time sessions and a quieter atmosphere. Avoid Saturday afternoons when the library and surrounding shopping center are busiest with weekend crowds.
What to Know
Admission is completely free. The library is accessible by lift and has toilet facilities. The Broadway shopping center offers numerous food options, cafes, and shops on the same premises, making it convenient for combined errands.
Seasonal Notes
The library offers special holiday programs during school breaks including summer reading challenges and half-term activities. Hours may vary on bank holidays, so check in advance. Note that Sunday hours are limited (1:00 PM to 4:00 PM).
Nearby Eats
The Broadway shopping center houses numerous family-friendly options including Wagamama for kid-friendly Asian cuisine and Pizza Express. Alternatively, walk five minutes to Walpole Park where you can picnic after grabbing sandwiches from nearby Pret A Manger or Tesco.
More Activities Near Ealing
Activity
Ealing Swimming Pool and Fitness Centre
Ealing Swimming Pool and Fitness Centre offers a welcoming environment for families with dedicated children's pools and shallow water areas perfect for building water confidence. The facility regularly schedules family swimming sessions, making it easy to plan a visit when the pool atmosphere is geared toward young swimmers and parents.
Cafe
Bunratty Castle Cafe
$
Bunratty Castle Cafe is a charming neighborhood spot in Ealing that welcomes families with open arms and a menu designed to please both parents and little ones. With its cozy atmosphere, delicious hot chocolate, freshly baked pastries, and kid-friendly meals, it's the perfect place to refuel during a day exploring West London or to enjoy a relaxed weekend breakfast with the family.
Park
Ealing Common
Free
Ealing Common is a spacious 47-acre green oasis perfect for families seeking outdoor play and relaxation in West London. With dedicated playgrounds, wide open spaces for running and games, and tree-lined walking paths, it offers a refreshing break from the city bustle where kids can burn energy while parents enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Theater
The Questors Theatre
★4.7$$❤️200
The Questors Theatre is one of London's largest and most respected community theaters, delighting families with enchanting pantomimes, youth theater programs, and quality productions designed specifically for young audiences. This welcoming West London venue offers an authentic British theater experience in an intimate setting where children can truly connect with live performance, making it perfect for introducing kids to the magic of theater.