Gunnersbury Triangle Nature Reserve: An Urban Wilderness in West London

A serene urban nature reserve in Chiswick offering diverse habitats, rich wildlife, and a peaceful escape just steps from the city.

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Gunnersbury Triangle, London Wildlife Trust

Gunnersbury Triangle is a 2.57-hectare local nature reserve nestled in Chiswick, West London, bordered by railway lines and urban development. Established in 1985 after a landmark public inquiry halted planned construction, it features diverse habitats including birch woodland, willow carr, ponds, and acid grassland. Managed by the London Wildlife Trust, it offers a tranquil escape with rich biodiversity, educational programs, and volunteer opportunities, all just steps from Chiswick Park Underground station.

A brief summary to Gunnersbury Triangle, London Wildlife Trust

Bollo Ln, London, Chiswick, W4 5LN, GB
+442038976153
Visit website
Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
Free
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Monday 12 am-12 am
Tuesday 12 am-12 am
Wednesday 12 am-12 am
Thursday 12 am-12 am
Friday 12 am-12 am
Saturday 12 am-12 am
Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

Visit between April and November for the best wildlife activity and pleasant weather.
Bring binoculars and a camera to spot birds and capture the reserve’s natural beauty.
Participate in London Wildlife Trust’s guided walks and volunteer days to deepen your experience.
Wear sturdy footwear as some paths may be uneven or covered with leaf litter.

Getting There

Public Transport

Take the London Underground District Line to Chiswick Park station. The reserve entrance is a short 2-minute walk across Bollo Lane from the station. Frequent service runs daily with fares starting from approximately £2.50.
Bus

Several bus routes serve Chiswick High Road, including routes 190 and 267. From the bus stop, it is about a 10-minute walk to the reserve entrance. Buses run every 10-20 minutes with standard London bus fares.
Car

Limited street parking is available near Bollo Lane, but spaces are scarce and often restricted. It is recommended to use public transport due to the reserve’s urban location and limited parking options.
Walking

If staying nearby in Chiswick, walking to the reserve is pleasant and accessible via paved urban sidewalks. Expect a 15-30 minute walk depending on your starting point, with mostly flat terrain.

Gunnersbury Triangle, London Wildlife Trust location weather suitability

Any Weather
Rain / Wet Weather
Clear Skies
Mild Temperatures

Discover more about Gunnersbury Triangle, London Wildlife Trust

Origins and Conservation Triumph

Gunnersbury Triangle’s story begins in the early 1980s when this patch of abandoned railway land and allotments was threatened by development. Local campaigners, supported by the London Wildlife Trust and the Greater London Council, successfully fought a public inquiry in 1983 to protect the site for its ecological value — a pioneering decision in British conservation history. The land was transferred to Hounslow Council, and after careful habitat restoration and public access improvements, the reserve opened in 1985. Both Hounslow and Ealing boroughs formally designated it a Local Nature Reserve in the late 1980s and early 1990s, securing its future as a green refuge in the city.

Ecological Richness in a Compact Space

Despite its modest size of just over 2.5 hectares, Gunnersbury Triangle supports a remarkable variety of habitats and species. The reserve’s core is secondary birch woodland, interspersed with willow carr — a rare wet woodland habitat in London — and acid grassland along the former Acton curve railway track. Ponds and meadows enhance this mosaic, providing shelter and breeding grounds for birds, amphibians, insects, and small mammals. Notable wildlife includes woodpeckers, blackcaps, frogs, and toads. The site’s biodiversity thrives under ongoing management practices such as coppicing, scrub clearance, and invasive species control, designed to preserve its wild character.

Visitor Experience and Community Engagement

Visitors enter through a simple wooden gate on Bollo Lane, just yards from Chiswick Park tube station, stepping into a surprisingly tranquil woodland oasis surrounded by urban bustle. Well-maintained footpaths and boardwalks guide exploration through diverse habitats, with informative signage highlighting the reserve’s flora and fauna. The London Wildlife Trust runs regular guided walks, fungus forays, and educational events, fostering community involvement and environmental awareness. Volunteers play a vital role in conservation work, receiving training in skills like hedgelaying and tree pruning. The reserve is a popular spot for schools, families, and nature enthusiasts seeking peaceful encounters with wildlife.

Urban Wilderness Amidst City Life

Encircled by railway lines, office buildings, and residential blocks, Gunnersbury Triangle offers a rare glimpse of wilderness within London’s dense urban fabric. The gentle sounds of birdsong and rustling leaves contrast with the distant rumble of trains, creating a unique sensory blend. This juxtaposition underscores the reserve’s significance as a green lung and biodiversity hotspot in West London. While the nearby luxury apartments overlook the reserve, the interior remains a secluded sanctuary where visitors can immerse themselves in nature’s rhythms, far removed from city noise and pace.

Conservation Challenges and Future Outlook

Maintaining the delicate balance of habitats in a small urban reserve requires constant vigilance. The London Wildlife Trust continues to monitor ecological health, manage invasive species, and adapt to environmental pressures such as pollution and climate change. Community support remains crucial, with ongoing volunteer programs and educational outreach helping to sustain the reserve’s vitality. Plans for improved visitor facilities and enhanced accessibility aim to welcome more people while safeguarding the reserve’s wild essence. Gunnersbury Triangle stands as a testament to successful urban conservation and the power of local action to protect natural heritage.

A Living Classroom and Sanctuary

Beyond its ecological importance, Gunnersbury Triangle serves as an invaluable resource for environmental education and wellbeing. School groups regularly visit to study habitats and wildlife firsthand, while adults participate in workshops and guided nature walks. The reserve’s peaceful atmosphere encourages mindfulness and connection with nature, offering a restorative escape from urban life. Whether you are a keen naturalist, a family seeking outdoor learning, or a city dweller craving quiet green space, Gunnersbury Triangle provides a rich, accessible experience of London’s wild side.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Aparthotel Adagio London Brentford

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Hammersmith Bridge

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Queen Charlotte's Cottage

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Mr Mathias Winkler

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Discover exceptional healthcare at Mr. Mathias Winkler's practice in London’s Charing Cross Hospital, where patient care meets expertise.

Queen Victoria Monument

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A majestic tribute to Queen Victoria, blending imperial grandeur with rich symbolism in the heart of London’s royal landscape.

Richmond Bridge

4.8 km

Richmond Bridge, London's oldest Thames crossing, blends 18th-century Palladian elegance with timeless riverside charm.

Howard Staunton Blue Plaque

4.9 km

Commemorating Howard Staunton, 19th-century chess master and organizer of the first international chess tournament, at his London blue plaque.

Richmond Hill - Viewing Point

5.0 km

Britain's only parliamentary-protected view, where the Thames winds through timeless meadowland.

St Peter's Church, Notting Hill

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The Castle

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Celebrity's Secret Door

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Explore the enchanting Celebrity's Secret Door on Portobello Road, a hidden gem in London that connects you to the city's vibrant celebrity culture.

Kensal Green Cemetery

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Explore the rich history and serene beauty of Kensal Green Cemetery, one of London's oldest burial grounds, a tranquil escape amidst the city's vibrancy.

Notting Hill Hillgate Village

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Experience the vibrant charm of Notting Hill Hillgate Village, where colorful houses, unique shops, and cultural delights await every traveler.

All Saints' Church, Notting Hill

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Explore the architectural beauty and serene atmosphere of All Saints' Church, a must-visit Anglican church and cultural hub in Notting Hill, London.

George Orwell Plaque

5.4 km

A literary landmark on vibrant Portobello Road celebrating George Orwell’s enduring legacy in London’s cultural heart.

Unmissable attractions to see

Turnham Green

0.4 km

A historic and beautifully landscaped green oasis at the heart of Chiswick, blending heritage, community, and urban charm.

Christ Church Turnham Green

0.5 km

Historic Gothic revival Anglican church and vibrant community hub nestled on Turnham Green in Chiswick, London.

Premium Tours

1.2 km

Discover the best of London with Premium Tours, offering diverse sightseeing experiences and knowledgeable guides to enhance your journey.

Gunnersbury Park Museum

1.2 km

Discover West London's rich heritage and tranquil green spaces at Gunnersbury Park Museum, where history meets nature.

Hogarth's House

1.4 km

Step into the tranquil 18th-century home of William Hogarth, where art, history, and garden stories blend in Chiswick’s peaceful retreat.

Chiswick House and Gardens

1.4 km

Explore the birthplace of the English Landscape Garden and a stunning 18th-century Palladian villa set in 65 acres of historic, free-to-enter gardens.

London Museum of Water & Steam

1.5 km

Explore Victorian steam engines and the story of London's water supply at this historic Brentford museum with interactive exhibits and a steam railway.

The National Archives

1.6 km

Explore a millennium of British history through original documents, exhibitions, and tranquil grounds at The National Archives in Kew.

The Musical Museum

1.7 km

Discover the enchanting world of self-playing instruments and live Wurlitzer concerts at Brentford’s Musical Museum.

St Dunstan’s, East Acton

2.3 km

A striking Gothic Revival church with a soaring octagonal spire, embodying Victorian faith and craftsmanship in East Acton.

Chiswick Bridge

2.4 km

Discover the charm and scenic beauty of Chiswick Bridge, a historic landmark in London offering stunning views of the Thames River.

Ealing Common

2.4 km

A historic and spacious green oasis in West London, blending Victorian charm with lively community spirit and cultural events.

Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew

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The William Morris Society

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Explore the inspiring legacy of William Morris at his historic London home, a hub for art, design, and social activism.

The Dove, Hammersmith

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Historic Thameside pub with Britain’s smallest bar, literary legends, royal tales, and scenic riverside views in Hammersmith.

Experience world-class Modern European fine dining in Notting Hill at The Ledbury, a 3-Michelin-starred culinary gem blending British ingredients with French elegance.

Discover quirky handmade crafts and Notting Hill treasures at this vibrant Pembridge Road gem, where every shelf holds a unique story from London's creative heart.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Star & Scorpion

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London Apprentice

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The Curtains Up

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The Elgin

5.0 km

Opulent Notting Hill gastropub with historic charm, seasonal British dishes, gin haven, beer garden buzz, and versatile private event spaces.

The Week

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Cozy Notting Hill bar on Elgin Crescent, blending craft cocktails and warm vibes in West London's chicest corner. Ideal for intimate evenings amid Victorian charm.

Portobello Star

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Gin mastery on Portobello Road: vintage vibes, craft cocktails, and Notting Hill's electric market energy in one cozy retreat.

Trailer Happiness

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Love

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Naked & Famous Bar

5.2 km

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The Earl of Lonsdale

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The Pelican

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The Little Yellow Door

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The Sun In Splendour

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The Henderson Bar & Kitchen

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The Churchill Arms, Kensington

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London's floral-festooned pub icon: Churchill memorabilia, pioneering Thai eats, and blooming facades since 1750 in vibrant Kensington.

Nightclubs & after hour spots

Lost In Disco

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Ricco London

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The Duke of Wellington

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Electric House

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Le Fez

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Subteranian

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The Globe

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Notting Hill Arts Club

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B London

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Metric

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Dolce Night Club , London

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Privilege Entertainment Ltd

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The Clapham Grand

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Experience the vibrant nightlife of London at The Clapham Grand, a premier events venue offering live music, comedy, and unforgettable parties.

Carwash Nightclub

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LUXX CLUB LONDON

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Gunnersbury Triangle Nature Reserve: An Urban Wilderness in West London

A brief summary to Gunnersbury Triangle, London Wildlife Trust

Local tips

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Getting There

Public Transport

Bus

Car

Walking

Gunnersbury Triangle, London Wildlife Trust location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of Gunnersbury Triangle, London Wildlife Trust

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Gunnersbury Triangle, London Wildlife Trust

Origins and Conservation Triumph

Ecological Richness in a Compact Space

Visitor Experience and Community Engagement

Urban Wilderness Amidst City Life

Conservation Challenges and Future Outlook

A Living Classroom and Sanctuary

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Aparthotel Adagio London Brentford

Hammersmith Bridge

Queen Charlotte's Cottage

Mr Mathias Winkler

Queen Victoria Monument

Richmond Bridge

Howard Staunton Blue Plaque

Richmond Hill - Viewing Point

St Peter's Church, Notting Hill

The Castle

Celebrity's Secret Door

Kensal Green Cemetery

Notting Hill Hillgate Village

All Saints' Church, Notting Hill

George Orwell Plaque

Unmissable attractions to see

Turnham Green

Christ Church Turnham Green

Premium Tours

Gunnersbury Park Museum

Hogarth's House

Chiswick House and Gardens

London Museum of Water & Steam

The National Archives

The Musical Museum

St Dunstan’s, East Acton

Chiswick Bridge

Ealing Common

Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew

The William Morris Society

The Dove, Hammersmith

Essential places to dine

La Rosetta Restaurant

Man vs Food

Fez Mangal Ladbroke Grove

Il Portico

A Cena

The Ladbroke Arms

Osteria Napoletana

La mia Mamma Notting Hill

Core by Clare Smyth

Ci Tua Osteria Romana

The Petersham Restaurant

Portobello Garden Arcade Italian Restaurant

Gold

The Sushi Co - Notting Hill

The Ledbury

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Stuff

The London Heritage

Octavia Foundation - Kensington

the Design Museum Shop - High Street Shop

the Design Museum Shop

Paul Smith - Notting Hill

Oxfam Shop - Kensington High Street

The Blue Door

Hangout Clothing

Jovonna Notting Hill Boutique