11 Things To Do In Hayes With Kids

Ellie Sylvester
Dec 12, 2023 By Ellie Sylvester
Originally Published on Jul 14, 2020
Traditional Old British red telephone box at Victoria Embankment with Big Ben
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Age: 0-99
Read time: 6.3 Min

Escape the hustle and bustle of busy central London and get away to Hayes - a hidden spot near London Heathrow airport, perfect for family fun!

We recognise that most of these attractions have closed their doors in light of lockdown, but as soon as everything is back up and running you won't want to miss out on these incredible family days out in Hayes, Greater London.

Come rain or shine, Hayes is bursting with child-friendly attractions for all ages and interests. Whether it be a trip to the local theatre, laser tag or a picnic in one of the many parks, there’s endless entertainment to be had.

If you’re looking for some super fun family games to play in the park, check out our blog here so that you'll come prepared!

1) Hillingdon Outdoor Pool

Why kids will love it: As the weather heats up and summer draws nearer, who doesn't love a bit of family poolside fun? Hillingdon Outdoor Pool boasts an Olympic sized outdoor swimming pool as well as a smaller, heated splash pool for younger children, making it great for kids of all ages!

Why parents will love it: With a creche and cafe onsite, it gives parents the chance to relax and let off some steam as well. Plus, swimming is a great activity that the entire family can get involved with, making it the perfect summer’s afternoon activity.

Nearest station: The closest railway station is Hillingdon Train Station which is a 7-minute taxi drive away. The closest underground station is Uxbridge Underground Station which is a 17-minute walk away or a 4-minute drive.

2) Crystal Palace Park

Why kids will love it: One word - dinosaurs. Yes, you read that right. Crystal Palace Park, located just a 15-minute drive away from the centre of Bromley, is home to tonnes of life-sized dinosaur models! Get up close and personal and don’t forget your camera.

Why parents will love it: Another great thing about Crystal Palace Park are the dog-friendly grounds, meaning there’s no need to leave your furry friends at home and making it super easy to head out for the day!

Nearest station: The nearest stations are Crystal Palace station and Penge West station. Penge is a step-free station for platform 1 and ticket office only. For buggies, we recommend Crystal Palace station.

3) Stockley Park Golf Club

Why kids will love it: Head to Stockley Park Golf Club - the perfect activity for a summer's day. If your kids are looking to become golf pros, why not check out our blog on how to become a mini-golf master here.

Why parents will love it: Just five minutes from Heathrow Airport, this hidden gem in Hayes is not to be missed. Gather the whole family and impress your little ones on this 240-acre golf course.

Nearest station: The nearest station is Hayes and Harlington which is a 10-minute drive away.

4) Operation Escape

Why kids will love it: Ideal for older kids, Operation Escape is one of the most unique, exciting escape rooms ever. In this live-interactive game, you’ll need to solve puzzles and clues to break free - it’s truly exhilarating!

Why parents will love it: Not only is it super fun and great to do as a family, it’s also pretty educational too! Be prepared to learn facts about WW2 in an entirely different way.

Nearest station: The nearest stations are Hayes (Southeastern) or Petts Wood (Thameslink and Southeastern) which are a 7-minute drive away.

5) Hayes Beck Theatre

Why kids will love it: Showcasing child-friendly entertainment all year round, Hayes Beck Theatre is bound to be a hit with kids! From classics such as The Tiger Who Came To Tea to new, modern writing, there’s endless entertainment here.

Why parents will love it: The fun doesn’t stop there! Hayes Beck Theatre also puts on plenty of productions that both adults and kids alike can enjoy - there really is something for everyone.

Nearest station: The nearest station is Hayes & Harlington station, then buses 90, H98 or 195 to Uxbridge County Court bus stop (approx 10 minutes) which is next to the theatre!

Empty cinema screen with audience

6) Pinkwell Park

Why kids will love it: Pinkwell Park boasts luscious greenery, football pitches and lovely nature paths, perfect for cycling or scooting! Plus, there’s even a children’s playground where your kids can run around and let off some steam.

Why parents will love it: The nature is simply breathtaking! Pack a picnic and take in your surroundings whilst your little ones explore the great outdoors.

Nearest station: The nearest station is Hayes & Harlington station and then the U4 bus will take you straight there in less than 10-minutes!

7) Northala Fields

Why kids will love it: The vast landscapes of Northala Fields will leave your little ones spellbound. Complete with a giant children’s playground, let your little ones take in the incredible views whilst swinging on the monkey bars!

Why parents will love it: With a family-friendly cafe, spacious public toilets and even a fishing lake, what’s not to love?

Nearest station: The nearest stations are Northolt Underground Station (Central) which is less than a 15-minute walk away and Greenford (GWR and Central) which is a 7-minute drive away.

8) The Nest Climbing

Why kids will love it: Unleash your inner spider man and get climbing at The Nest! With sessions catered for each ability and age, The Nest Climbing provides endless, safe fun, perfect for a rainy day!

Why parents will love it: Climbing is proven to be a great stress reliever and it’s a great activity for you and your little ones to do together!

Nearest station: The nearest station is Hayes and Harlington station (GWR and TFL Rail) which is a 6-minute walk away.

9) The Photographic Angle

Why kids will love it: The Photographic Angle is home to some super unique and interesting art exhibitions. Whether your little ones are culture vultures or prefer to admire art from afar, the Photographic Angle is bound to satisfy even the smallest of artists.

Why parents will love it: This free art gallery lets the grown-ups to get up close and personal with some seriously unique pieces!

Nearest station: The nearest stations are London Heathrow Terminals 2 & 3 (TFL Rail, Heathrow Express) which is a 7-minute drive away and Hayes and Harlington (GWR and TFL Rail) which is also a 7-minute drive away.

10) Hounslow Urban Farm

Why kids will love it: Labelled ‘London’s Best Interactive Farm’, Hounslow Urban Farm in West London is ideal for a fun family day away from the city centre. Check out everything from snakes and lizards to goats!

Why parents will love it: Parents can get involved with the petting too. Ever wanted to have a meet and greet with a pig? Well, now you can!

Nearest station: The nearest station is Feltham, which is a 20-minute walk from the station to the farm. You can also get the 490 or 285 buses from directly outside the station and within 5 minutes you will be at the farm.

11) Osterley Park and House

Why kids will love it: Osterley Park and House is one of West London’s beautiful National Trust sites - perfect for a nature walk where kids can spot their favourite birds or even take their bikes along.

Why parents will love it: It’s a great place to be active and get your steps in! Who would want to take their government permitted exercise anywhere else?

Nearest station: The nearest station is Syon Lane (South Western Railway) which is a half an hour walk away or 7-minute drive.

Hayes London Greater London United Kingdom England

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Written by Ellie Sylvester

Bachelor of Arts specializing in English

Ellie Sylvester picture

Ellie SylvesterBachelor of Arts specializing in English

As a passionate Londoner, Ellie enjoys exploring the city's theaters and food markets with her younger siblings. She has a Bachelor's degree in English from the University of Nottingham. She's particularly fond of Primrose Hill and the Natural History Museum, as well as the constantly changing Spitalfields Market. In addition to her love of theater, Ellie also enjoys trying new foods and dabbling in musical theater.

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