
Ruislip Woods National Nature Reserve
Explore ancient woodlands and enjoy lakeside strolls at Ruislip Woods, a serene nature reserve with diverse wildlife and walking paths.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful and quiet walks

Ruislip Woods National Nature Reserve
Best Time
Peaceful and quiet walks

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore ancient woodlands and enjoy lakeside strolls at Ruislip Woods, a serene nature reserve with diverse wildlife and walking paths.
"A bless and peaceful place, definitely comes as the top place to visit for woodland walks."

Wear waterproof boots
Paths can get very muddy, especially after rain. Waterproof boots are a must for comfortable exploration. :athletic_shoe:
Pack for changing weather
London weather is unpredictable. Bring layers and rain gear, even on a sunny day. :umbrella:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ancient Woodland Trails
Throughout the reserve
Explore miles of diverse walking and biking paths through mature oak, beech, and birch trees.

Ruislip Lido Beach
Adjacent to the woods
A surprising sandy beach offering a unique waterside stroll with views of the lake.

Wildlife Spotting
Various clearings and water features
Keep an eye out for ducks, birds, squirrels, and even deer in this thriving natural habitat.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Footwear for Ruislip Woods
Timing Your Visit for Tranquility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear waterproof boots
Paths can get very muddy, especially after rain. Waterproof boots are a must for comfortable exploration. :athletic_shoe:
Pack for changing weather
London weather is unpredictable. Bring layers and rain gear, even on a sunny day. :umbrella:
Explore beyond the main paths
Venture off the beaten track for a more immersive woodland experience. :hiking_boot:
Visit Ruislip Lido
Combine your woodland walk with a visit to the nearby lido for a beachside stroll. :lake:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear waterproof boots
Paths can get very muddy, especially after rain. Waterproof boots are a must for comfortable exploration. :athletic_shoe:
Pack for changing weather
London weather is unpredictable. Bring layers and rain gear, even on a sunny day. :umbrella:
Explore beyond the main paths
Venture off the beaten track for a more immersive woodland experience. :hiking_boot:
Visit Ruislip Lido
Combine your woodland walk with a visit to the nearby lido for a beachside stroll. :lake:
Look for wildlife
The woods are home to various animals; keep an eye out for birds, squirrels, and deer. :deer:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Ruislip Woods for its peaceful atmosphere and beautiful ancient woodland. Many enjoy the combination with the nearby Ruislip Lido, appreciating the diverse recreational opportunities. While generally well-loved, some note that paths can become very muddy after rain, requiring appropriate footwear.
"They do have a train for all its charges, 5 pounds for a single side and return, 10 pounds.
It's beautiful to hike here! Without mountains and lakeside
😊"
Ankita Sendre
"A very good trail for family and kids.
The entire woods is a bless and peaceful place. I have been to many trails and this one definitely comes as the top place to visit."
Nagaraj Tantri
"I love it, it's right next to Ruislip Lido where you can go for a walk. You can also take a ride on the narrow-gauge railway, if you don't want to walk too much. Also if you don't want to walk through the mud in the forest, there is a nice path. Perfect for any type of weather."
Elizabeth K. (EtaMa)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ruislip Woods is accessible by public transport and car. The nearest Tube stations are Ruislip and Ruislip Manor on the Piccadilly and Metropolitan lines. Several bus routes also serve the area. Parking is available at Ruislip Lido car park, which is adjacent to the woods.
Yes, there is a car park located at Ruislip Lido, which is right next to the nature reserve. It can get busy on weekends and during peak times.
Yes, Ruislip Woods has a network of cycling trails. It's a popular spot for local cyclists looking for off-road routes.
While the Reddit user mentioned a lack of significant water features, Ruislip Woods is adjacent to Ruislip Lido, a large reservoir with a beach area. There are also smaller streams and ponds within the woods themselves.
Absolutely! You can enjoy shorter walks around Ruislip Lido or pick a section of the woodland paths for a brief stroll. The reserve is quite extensive, so you can tailor your walk to your time.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Ruislip Woods National Nature Reserve is free to enter. There are no admission fees for walking or exploring the woodland trails.
The nature reserve is generally open from dawn till dusk. As it's a natural woodland area, there are no strict opening or closing times, but it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.
Entry to Ruislip Lido itself is free. Parking at the lido car park may incur charges, especially during busy periods.
Yes, dogs are welcome in Ruislip Woods, but they must be kept under control, especially around wildlife and other visitors. Be prepared for muddy conditions if your dog enjoys exploring off-path.
There isn't a dedicated visitor center within Ruislip Woods itself. Information about the reserve and its wildlife is often available at local council websites or through signage within the park.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Ruislip Woods offers a variety of trails, including well-maintained paths suitable for most visitors and more rugged, natural paths that can become muddy. There are also dedicated cycling routes.
Yes, it's a great spot for families. The proximity to Ruislip Lido, with its beach and potential for picnics, makes it appealing. The woodland itself offers opportunities for exploration and nature spotting.
You can spot a variety of wildlife, including ducks and birds around the lido, squirrels, and if you're lucky, deer. The diverse habitats support a rich ecosystem.
Some of the main paths, particularly around Ruislip Lido, are paved and accessible. However, many woodland trails can be uneven and muddy, making them less suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs, especially after rain.
Toilets and other facilities are typically available at the Ruislip Lido area, including cafes and sometimes a pub. Within the deeper parts of the woods, facilities are limited.
📸 📸 Photography
The ancient woodland offers beautiful light filtering through the trees, especially in autumn. The Ruislip Lido beach provides a unique waterscape, and look for wildlife for candid shots.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best natural light, creating a magical atmosphere. Golden hour can be particularly stunning amongst the trees.
A versatile lens, like a 24-70mm, is great for landscapes and wildlife. A wide-angle lens can capture the scale of the woodland, and a macro lens is useful for close-ups of flora and fauna.
Focus on the textures of the ancient trees, the play of light and shadow, seasonal colours (especially autumn leaves), and any wildlife you encounter. The lido offers a different perspective with its water and beach.
Be mindful of the weather, as conditions can change quickly. Also, respect the natural environment and wildlife; avoid disturbing animals or damaging plants.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Walkers & Nature Enthusiasts
🚴 Cyclists
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Ancient Woodland
Navigating the woods is made easier by a network of paths, catering to both walkers and cyclists. While some paths are well-maintained and accessible, others are more natural and can become quite muddy after rainfall, as noted by visitors. This means wearing appropriate footwear is crucial for a comfortable experience. The sense of peace and calm within the woods is frequently mentioned by visitors, making it an ideal escape from urban life.
For those interested in nature, the woods are a haven for wildlife. Keep an eye out for various bird species, squirrels, and if you're fortunate, you might even spot deer. The presence of these animals adds to the immersive natural experience. The combination of ancient trees, varied terrain, and abundant wildlife makes Ruislip Woods a truly special place for nature lovers and walkers alike.
The Charm of Ruislip Lido
Visitors often combine a walk through the woods with a visit to the lido, enjoying the best of both worlds. The lido area also hosts a narrow-gauge railway, which can be a fun experience, especially for children, offering a relaxing way to see the surroundings without extensive walking. There are also facilities like cafes and a pub nearby, making it a convenient spot for refreshments.
The combination of the tranquil, ancient woodland and the more open, recreational space of the lido makes Ruislip Woods National Nature Reserve a versatile destination. Whether you're seeking a deep forest immersion or a waterside walk with amenities, this area offers a well-rounded natural escape.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit