Ruislip, Ickenham and West Ruislip Area Guide

Discover the perfect blend of convenient commuting, top-rated schools, and vibrant shopping in Ruislip.

Ruislip is an ancient ecclesiastical parish in the historic county of Middlesex. The parish appears in Domesday Book, some of the earliest settlements still exist today, designated as local heritage sites.

The parish church, St Martin's, dates back to the 13th century and remains in use. The buildings at the northern end of Ruislip High Street form the core of the original village square and are now Grade II listed.

The expansion of the Metropolitan Railway in the early 20th century acted as a catalyst for development in the area. A station was opened in Ruislip in 1904 and the parish council created a new urban district to address the forthcoming population growth.

Major landmarks in the area include Ruislip Lido, a former reservoir, now an area of public parkland with its own miniature railway and Manor Farm, a settlement dating from the 9th century which is now designated as a local heritage site. The area also benefits from several parks and open spaces such as Ruislip Woods which is a national nature reserve.

Famous residents have included author Colin Iggulden and actor Andy Serkis and author Leslie Thomas famously wrote his best-selling novel the Tropic of Ruislip based on the area.

Ruislip offers excellent commuter links into London with both the Metropolitan and Piccadilly Line underground services. There is a good mix of schooling for all ages and in both public and private sectors. There is good independent and multiple shopping facilities in Ruislip, Ickenham and West Ruislip.