Ruislip Duck Pond & Manor Farm
If you want to see some ducks in Ruislip, consider popping into the duck pond. Plenty of benches to sit on and take in the tranquillity of the pond and its wildlife!
Ruislip Duck Pond
This is a beautiful activity for families of all generations, as you can feed the ducks or have a picnic. The duck pond Ruislip has much to offer; it is a beautiful day out.
The debut was in 2008, and the spirit is friendly and supportive, evident in the joyful and laid-back ambiance. It has grown to over 100 stalls selling antiques, farm food, and handcrafted goods. The Great Barn, where the market is located, is a heritage conservation site and a Grade II listed building. The market occurs every third Sunday of the month from 10 am to 3 pm. Organizations have tried to add a festival atmosphere to the proceedings by incorporating live music, face painting, other children’s activities, and a petting zoo.
When you visit, you will see that magic instantly. As everything is handcrafted—nothing is mass-produced, there are many fantastic homemade items to buy, candles, room diffusers, blankets, jewellery, and art. Small, independent enterprises locally produce everything. Ethically produced by Fair Trade organizations or non-profits, you can usually find freshly baked bread and a barbecue. Plus, everyone is aware of making environmentally friendly products. So, you’ll see a lot of vintages, upcycled, and eco-friendly wares.
Parking is free, and there are bicycle racks for cyclists.
Is the Duck Pond Market on today?
The market is held on the third Sunday of every month.
Manor Farm
Manor Farm’s history begins with the construction a pre-Norman Motte and Bailey castle at the site. Since then, the site has passed through several hands developing over the years. Today, it has come to hold a collection of historic buildings, a community center, a public library, and much more within its 22-acre grounds. Access to the entire site, its resources, and the remains of the castle is free. The Great Barn is also available for hire for private events and weddings. Manor Farm has come to be an excellent example of how even historic buildings if given a second chance, can be a resource that benefits the community.
Manor Farm is Hillingdon’s flagship heritage and culture site is Set on 22 acres of beautiful grounds, boasting a unique collection of community spaces, historic buildings, archaeological remains, and landscape features.
There is pedestrian access to the site via the top of Ruislip High Street (2 adjacent openings), St Martin’s Approach (via a footpath), Pinn Way, and two entrances from Bury Street (behind the Great Barn and via the lynch gate).
Mill Bowling club
The club was founded in 1942 when a group of workers from a local engineering company got together for bowling in the evening after work. It is believed that the men worked in the milling room hence the name. There was also a water mill in Ruislip which may have influenced the choice of name. In 2022 they celebrated their 80th anniversary.
Whether you are an experienced bowler, a beginner, or want to try a friendly and competitive club, Mill Bowling Club would be a great place to start. Tuition and Coaching are available for new bowlers.
You can learn more by visiting http://www.millbowlingclub-ruislip.co.uk/
Home Instead Ruislip and Harrow have very proudly sponsored Mill Bowling Club for the last two years, both of our directors are members!
Winston Churchill Theatre and Hall
Located on the Manor Farm site in Ruislip, the Winston Churchill Theatre and Hall is a community theatre and function space that was purpose-built in the 1960s. This hall hosts entertaining concerts, plays, musicals, and sometimes conferences and lectures. The technological assistance is commendable, and this venue is a favorite to many locals. In September 2022, the Winston Churchill Theatre resumed operation as a performance venue after serving as a Covid-19 vaccination center.
The venue is also available for hire. Hire of the main auditorium includes the use of the venue’s own PA system, lighting, stage, dressing rooms, lounge, bar, car park, and use of kitchen. Wheelchair users have designated spaces at the front of the first row of seats.
Upon entering the foyer, you’ll notice a bar on the left. It’s worth noting that they don’t serve food at this bar.
You can see what’s on at the theatre by visiting What’s on at Winston Churchill Theatre, Ruislip, HA4 7QL (uktw.co.uk)
What else is on at Manor farm?
Foodies Market
First Sunday of every month
Meet your neighbourhood food producers! You can conveniently get your weekly groceries while supporting local farmers and independent producers.
Artisan Food & Craft Market
Third Sunday of every month
Discover a diverse selection of locally made arts, crafts, gifts, vintage items, homewares, and clothing from the best local artists, crafters, and ethical businesses. Indulge in a tempting array of locally produced food to enjoy on-site or take home—experience live music performances during your visit.
Their selection now includes products from small producers all over the world. If a product cannot be grown in the UK, they ensure to source the highest quality Fair Trade, small batch, or organic alternative available.
When the market is open, there are plenty of things to do here. You can enjoy delicious street food, purchase a picnic to take to Pinn Meadows, and relax under the trees or among the wildflowers. Alternatively, you can take a short stroll through Ruislip Woods to see the famous Ruislip Lido. It’s easy to spend a whole day here!
