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London Borough Of Hillingdon

Attractions and Places To See around the London Borough Of Hillingdon - Top 20

Best attractions and places to see around the London Borough Of Hillingdon offers a diverse landscape in West London, known as one of the capital's greenest boroughs. It features extensive natural spaces, historical landmarks, and cultural sites. Visitors can explore over 200 parks and open spaces, alongside significant waterways like the Grand Union Canal. The area provides numerous opportunities for outdoor activities and historical exploration.

Best attractions and places to see around the London Borough Of Hillingdon

  • The most popular attractions is Ruislip Lido, a facilities that features sandy beaches, boating activities, and a miniature railway. It is a popular spot for outdoor leisure and bird-watching.
  • Another must-see spot is Coy Carp Pub and Kayak Spot on the Grand Union Canal, a bridge. Visitors can enjoy a pub setting directly on the Grand Union Canal, which also serves as a kayak spot.
  • Visitors also love Bull's Bridge Junction (Grand Union Canal), a river where the Grand Union Canal Paddington arm meets the Slough arm. This historical site offers a good viewpoint for canal activity.
  • London Borough Of Hillingdon is known for its historical landmarks, extensive natural spaces, and significant waterways. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient churches to vast nature reserves and popular trails Hillingdon.
  • The attractions around the London Borough Of Hillingdon are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 210 upvotes and 80 photos shared across 84 highlights.

Last updated: May 26, 2026

Ruislip Lido

Highlight • Rest Area

You can cycle round the Lido but it gets very busy at the weekend and in the summer is packed during holidays on sunny days. Beware of dog walkers with extending leads. It is great to cycle through Ruislip Woods to the Lido if you have a trail bike, but horses use the paths and churn it up after rain so it is almost impassable. The best time to go is very early in the morning in the summer, beautiful, especially if the mist is around.

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The Keyhole

Highlight • Viewpoint

For an optimal experience at Hilltop View, plan your visit during late spring to early summer (May to June). [1] This period offers mild weather and longer daylight hours, enhancing the panoramic views. Ensure you wear sturdy footwear, as the terrain can be uneven. Don't forget to bring a camera to capture the breathtaking scenery.

[1] skybridgecars.com/a-transfer-trip-to-britain-s-most-scenic-hilltop-views-and-panoramas

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Uxbridge Lock

Highlight • Historical Site

Uxbridge Lock is a pretty section on the Grand Union Canal immediately north of Uxbridge. From here, you can walk along the canal in both directions. If you're lucky, you might see a narrowboat operating the lock or puttering along the canal.

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Black Jack's Mill

Highlight • Bridge

A nice place to stop for a snack.

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This is at the bottom of the cheeky climb that heads towards Harefield. The road follows a chicane over a narrow bridge that is controlled by traffic lights so make sure you are in control of your speed when coming to the bottom of the hill.

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HS2 Colne Valley Viaduct

Highlight • Bridge

Currently under construction, this will be the viaduct that carries the HS2 train from London towards Birmingham and beyond at some point (currently sometime in the early 2030s, but we all know how rail projects go with time lines).

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If you need a short distance long ride... go around a couple times in Hillingdon Cycle Circuit and finish off going through the Grand union canal route.

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Denham Deep Lock

Highlight • Rest Area

It's not for nothing that this is called Denham Deep Lock. At 36 feet (11 m) deep, it's the deepest lock on the Grand Union Canal.

If you're hungry, you can find Fran's Tea Garden here.

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St Dunstan's Church, Cranford

Highlight • Historical Site

A church has been here since Saxon times and stands within the parish of Cranford. The manor was once owned by the Knights Templar. You can walk around the graveyard to find its historical, overgrown graves and admire the present church, which retains plenty of old sections.

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You can cycle for miles on the towpath of the Grand Union Canal, a spur of which starts in Slough. There are many narrow boats on the canal and a few places where there are Marinas, such as this one - the nicely named PacketBoat Marina. A really nice cycle along the towpath which can go all the way into London.

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Tips from the Community

Greg Wesson
November 1, 2025, The Keyhole

On Harmondsworth Moor, squashed between the M25 and Heathrow Airport, is land which has been returned to nature after being gravel pits and landfill. There is a lovely hilltop, which is called the Keyhole. A narrow path between two small mounds is a path is lined by large rectangular stones - remnants of the original Waterloo Bridge demolished in 1935. The form a narrow passage to a wider opening, or reminiscent of a keyhole. The stones include an inscription that reads "FOR WORDS, LIKE NATURE HALF REVEAL AND HALF CONCEAL THE SOUL WITHIN" Worth a detour for both the history and the views.

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Look out for Tony Hancocks Grave. If you enter from the South - follow the boundary wall all around until you see an end pillar. The memorial is on the end and during my visit, there were photos/dvds/flowers left. Unfortunately, its "doors locked".

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For an optimal experience at Hilltop View, plan your visit during late spring to early summer (May to June). [1] This period offers mild weather and longer daylight hours, enhancing the panoramic views. Ensure you wear sturdy footwear, as the terrain can be uneven. Don't forget to bring a camera to capture the breathtaking scenery. [1] https://skybridgecars.com/a-transfer-trip-to-britain-s-most-scenic-hilltop-views-and-panoramas

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The start of the Paddington arm and the this part of this canal was open on 1801. Length is 13.5 miles

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The area around Uxbridge Lock was home to various industries, including a flour mill formerly owned by Allied Mills and later by William King.  William King named the mill "Kingsmill," which is still used as a bread brand. 

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The area around Uxbridge Lock was home to various industries, including a flour mill formerly owned by Allied Mills and later by William King. William King named the mill "Kingsmill," which is still used as a bread brand.

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views of the viaduct mid construction phase

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51m
September 8, 2024, Black Jack's Mill

Black Jack's Lock, bridge and cottage are on the Grand Union Canal where it passes the River Colne lakes. The canal and locks were built in the 1800s, but the mill has been here for a lot longer.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best natural spaces and parks to explore in the London Borough of Hillingdon?

The London Borough of Hillingdon is known for its extensive green spaces. You can explore the vast Colne Valley Regional Park, which offers tranquil paths and diverse wildlife across 43 square miles. Another highlight is Ruislip Lido, a scenic reservoir with sandy beaches and boating. For woodland walks, visit the Ruislip Woods National Nature Reserve, London's largest woodland, comprising four distinct woods.

Are there any historical landmarks or cultural sites worth visiting in Hillingdon?

Yes, Hillingdon boasts several significant historical and cultural sites. The Battle of Britain Bunker offers a fascinating look into WWII history. You can also visit Manor Farm in Ruislip, a heritage site with buildings dating back to Tudor times, or the impressive Harmondsworth Great Barn, a beautifully preserved medieval structure from 1426. Don't miss St Dunstan's Church, Cranford, with origins tracing back to Saxon times.

What family-friendly activities are available in the London Borough of Hillingdon?

For families, Ruislip Lido is a popular choice, offering sandy beaches, boating, and a miniature railway. The Beck Theatre in Uxbridge hosts a variety of family-friendly shows, including dance, drama, and musicals. Many of the borough's parks, like Cranford Park and Warrender Park, provide open spaces for children to play.

Where can I find good walking or cycling routes along the Grand Union Canal in Hillingdon?

The Grand Union Canal offers miles of towpaths perfect for walking and cycling. You can explore sections around Bull's Bridge Junction, where the Paddington arm meets the Slough arm, or visit Denham Deep Lock, the deepest lock on the canal. Uxbridge Lock is another scenic spot. For specific routes, check out the easy hikes and road cycling routes guides for the area.

Are there any unique viewpoints or interesting man-made structures to see?

Beyond the natural beauty, you can find unique viewpoints and structures. The Keyhole offers an interesting perspective. The HS2 Colne Valley Viaduct is a modern engineering marvel. Historically, Denham Deep Lock on the Grand Union Canal is notable as the deepest lock, and Black Jack's Mill provides a glimpse into the area's industrial past.

What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions in Hillingdon?

Visitors particularly enjoy the tranquility and natural beauty of places like Ruislip Lido, often highlighting its peaceful atmosphere for bird-watching and relaxing. The historical significance of sites like St Dunstan's Church and the activity around canal spots like Bull's Bridge Junction are also highly appreciated for their unique charm and photo opportunities.

Are there opportunities for running or jogging in the borough?

Absolutely. The London Borough of Hillingdon offers numerous trails suitable for running. You can find routes around Ruislip Lido and through the surrounding woods. For more options, consult the Running Trails around the London Borough Of Hillingdon guide, which includes routes like the 'Ruislip Woods, Ruislip Lido & Park Woods loop'.

Where can I find information about local history and heritage in Hillingdon?

The Hillingdon Museum and Archives Service, located in the Civic Centre, Uxbridge, is an excellent resource for local history, featuring artifacts and exhibitions. Additionally, the council provides virtual heritage site tours online, offering insights into the borough's past.

Are there any pubs or cafes near the attractions for refreshments?

Yes, you'll find several options. Coy Carp Pub and Kayak Spot is directly on the Grand Union Canal, offering a pleasant setting. Near Denham Deep Lock, Fran's Tea Garden is available for snacks and soft drinks. Black Jack's Mill also has a cafe. Many parks and popular spots like Ruislip Lido have facilities to grab a coffee or a bite to eat.

What is the Hillingdon Trail and what does it offer?

The Hillingdon Trail is a 20-mile path that provides scenic walking adventures through the borough's countryside and historical sites. It's a great way to experience the diverse landscapes and discover hidden gems of the area, connecting various green spaces and points of interest.

Are there any attractions that are particularly good for plane spotting?

Yes, Warrender Park, located a few miles north of Heathrow Airport, is ideal for plane spotters. It offers open spaces and good views, along with other amenities like an outdoor gym and a rose garden, making it a pleasant spot for aviation enthusiasts.

What kind of wildlife can I expect to see in Hillingdon's parks and nature reserves?

Hillingdon's extensive green spaces, particularly the Colne Valley Regional Park and Ruislip Woods National Nature Reserve, are rich in biodiversity. You can spot diverse bird species, especially around Ruislip Lido, and encounter various woodland creatures in the nature reserves, which are designated Sites of Special Scientific Interest for their unique plants and animals.

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