Ealing was dubbed the Queen of the Suburbs in the 1880s because of its excellent balance between city and rural living - and whilst London has changed significantly in the many decades since, that title is still deserved. With unrivalled transport links, including access to four Tube lines, rail services, and good bus and road links, Ealing feels very central - however, its huge green and open spaces preserve the area's rural charms. Attractive, spacious houses and schools round out the appeal for families, and young professionals can enjoy the array of shops and restaurants in the area.
This area has staying power, especially for families moving into the area, who intend to put down roots and become part of the community.
The 2014/2015 crime rate was significantly higher than the London rate, and the violence against the person rate was also higher than the rate for London as a whole. Between April 2016 and March 2017, the most common crime types were anti-social behaviour, shoplifting, and violence and sexual offences.
Parking is about average for London in this area. The rate of car ownership in Ealing is the same as the overall London rate, at about two cars for every three households. Road links are good, if congested, and include the A40 to the M4, M40, and M25.
Ealing has a mix of chain and independent restaurants in the town centre, as well as some pubs and bars. Transport links are extremely good, with Night Tube service on the Piccadilly Line into Central London for more nightlife options.
Ealing offers a range of property, and is a good place to look for a family home - there is a good supply of Victorian cottages, Edwardian and Victorian semis, and detached homes with gardens. There is excellent access to green and open space in this area - Walpole Park, Ealing Common, Hanger Hill Park, Fox Wood, and Gunnersbury Park all offer miles of footpaths and acres of fields, as well as various facilities. Schools in Ealing are a major draw for families - there are top-performing state primary schools, as well as comprehensive schools, and private and prep schools. The percentage of children aged 0-15 living in this area is around 15%, compared to a London percentage of 20%.
Ealing property is varied, but includes many Victorian cottages, Edwardian and Victorian semis, and detached homes with large gardens that would be suitable for pets. There is excellent access to green and open space in this area - Walpole Park, Ealing Common, Hanger Hill Park, Fox Wood, and Gunnersbury Park all offer miles of footpaths and acres of fields, making this a very good place to own a dog.
Ealing is located in Zone 3 and has excellent transport links. Ealing Broadway offers mainline rail services to Paddington that take about 10 minutes, as well as the Central and District Lines - and Crossrail is set to stop at this station as well. West Ealing also offers rail services to Paddington. Ealing Common is on the District and Piccadilly Lines. North Ealing, Park Royal, South Ealing, and Northfields are on the Piccadilly Line. Hanger Lane and West ACtorn are on the Central Line. The area is very well served by local buses. Road links are good, if congested, and include the A40 to the M4, M40, and M25. Heathrow Airport can easily be reached by the Piccadilly Line or by road.