The Ruislip Lido is a perfect destination for a family day out, where you can enjoy a train ride on Britain’s longest 12 Inch Gauge Railway across the Ruislip Lido Forest - home to many ducks, swans, and geese. Not to mention the huge sandy beach with an excellent pizzeria to indulge in after your adventures. This Easter, Ruislip Lido will host the Easter Bunny at their very own Eggseter St David's Station on the special "Eggspress" train.

 

Upon arrival you may either take the train into the heart of Ruislip Lido or take a more adventurous route around the 60 acre lake along the Planets’ trail where you can spot a variety of ducks and swans.

 

The typical train fares are as follows:


Single ticket:                                        Return ticket:

Adult - £3                                              Adult - £4

Child - £2                                              Child - £3

Family of 4: £8                                     Family of 4 - £12

 

 

The route meanders through the historic Ruislip Woods and circles the lake at Ruislip Lido, making for a delightful ride. On the line, there are two major stations where travellers can begin and end their trip. The line's oldest station, Woody Bay, is located next to a children's splash park and a beach. The other station is Willow Lawn, which is close to the "Waters Edge" bar and carvery as well as the car park. Before the train returns to Woody Bay, guests can watch the engine being turned on the turntable at Willow Lawn station.


 

The train arrival times at the Willow Lawn station can be quite long—40 minutes, if you happen to miss one. But don't worry, the Turnable Tea Cafe offers a convenient afternoon tea break. The cafe offers a large variety of hot and cold beverages, ice creams, and light fare. It also has air-conditioned inside and outdoor seating, depending on your preference.

 

The train ride lasts for approximately 11 minutes, giving you plenty of time to take the ideal pictures of the old-growth forest the train passes through.

Once you walk or take the train down to Woody Bay, you'll be greeted by a breathtaking view of the lake next to an outdoor beach picnic area. But don't forget to pack your swimwear because the Splash Pad, which is nearby, has a kid-friendly mini waterpark and sand play area.

 

A short stroll up from there is a very convenient area to overlook the entirety of the Ruislip Lido lake, It's the ideal location for photos and wildlife spotting, if you get bored easily there happens to also be another playground just along the footpath after you capture all your selfies.


Ruislip Lido has plenty of parking and is conveniently located—it's only around three miles from the A40. On the other hand, public transport might be preferred on busy days. In this instance, the 331 and H13 buses from TFL, stop right outside the station will transport you directly to your destination. Metropolitan and Piccadilly lines serve Ruislip Lido underground station.