Skip to main content
Sign In
Wormwood Scrubs Open Space park in Hammersmith, London
Photo: Google
View of Wormwood Scrubs Open Space in Hammersmith, London
Photo: Google
View of Wormwood Scrubs Open Space in Hammersmith, London
Photo: Google

Wormwood Scrubs Open Space

4.3(1,340 reviews)FreePark
🕑 2-4 hours👶 Best for ages 2-12. Toddlers and preschoolers will love the playground equipment and open spaces for exploring, while older children can enjoy cycling, football, and longer nature walks across the vast grounds.

About

Wormwood Scrubs is one of West London's largest open spaces, offering families 200 acres of green parkland perfect for energetic play and outdoor adventures. With dedicated playgrounds, wide open fields for sports and kite flying, cycling paths, and nature trails, this expansive park gives kids the freedom to run wild while parents enjoy the fresh air and community atmosphere.

Highlights

  • Multiple playgrounds with equipment for different age groups
  • Vast open fields perfect for picnics, sports, and running around
  • Dedicated cycling and walking paths ideal for learning to ride bikes
  • Nature trails where families can spot local wildlife and birds
  • Free outdoor space with no admission fees

Pro Tips

  1. 1.The park is enormous, so bring a map on your phone or note landmarks to avoid getting disoriented, especially with young children.
  2. 2.Pack a picnic and plenty of water as food options within the park are limited. The nearest shops and cafes are along Du Cane Road on the park's eastern edge.
  3. 3.Bring bikes, scooters, or sports equipment like footballs and frisbees to make the most of the wide open spaces and cycling paths.
  4. 4.Visit the Linford Christie Stadium area on the eastern side where you'll find the best maintained playgrounds and facilities.
  5. 5.Weekday mornings are quietest for families with young children, while weekends see local football matches and community events that older kids might enjoy watching or joining.

Best Time to Visit

Spring and summer mornings (9am to 12pm) offer the best weather and quieter conditions before afternoon crowds arrive. Weekdays are generally less busy than weekends when local sports teams use the fields.

What to Know

Admission is completely free and the park is open 24 hours, though families should visit during daylight hours. Limited parking is available along surrounding streets (Du Cane Road and Scrubs Lane), and there are public toilets near the main playground areas.

Seasonal Notes

The park is open year-round, but spring and summer (April through September) offer the best conditions for family visits. Winter can be muddy after rain, so bring appropriate footwear. The park hosts occasional community events during summer months.

Nearby Eats

The Defector's Weld pub on Bryony Road (10-minute walk) offers family-friendly meals and a beer garden. For quick bites, head to East Acton or White City stations where you'll find chain restaurants and cafes suitable for children.

More Activities Near Hammersmith

Park

Hammersmith Park

4.6Free

Hammersmith Park is a welcoming community green space in West London that offers families a perfect blend of active play and peaceful relaxation. With dedicated children's play areas, sports facilities, and well-maintained gardens, it provides an authentic local park experience away from the tourist crowds while remaining easily accessible via London's excellent public transport network.

Park

Ravenscourt Park

4.5Free

Ravenscourt Park is a beloved West London green space offering families a perfect blend of structured play areas and wide open spaces for free play. With well-maintained playgrounds, sports facilities, and plenty of room for picnics and games, it's an ideal spot for burning off energy while parents relax in beautiful surroundings.

Park

Furnivall Gardens

4.5Free

Furnivall Gardens offers families a peaceful Thames-side escape in Hammersmith with well-maintained play areas, riverside walking paths, and plenty of open green space for picnics and games. The scenic river views and proximity to Hammersmith Bridge make it an ideal spot for families seeking outdoor fun without the crowds of London's more famous parks.

Theater

Lyric Hammersmith Theatre

4.6$$

The Lyric Hammersmith Theatre is a beloved West London venue offering exceptional family entertainment year-round, from traditional British pantomimes to specially crafted shows for young audiences. With its strong reputation (4.6/5 rating from nearly 2,000 reviews) and commitment to accessible, high-quality theater, it's an ideal introduction to live performance for children visiting London.