An Introduction to Ealing Magazine
Ealing Magazine is a new local publication dedicated to covering the stories, people, and issues that matter to residents of the London Borough of Ealing. This inaugural feature introduces the magazine and the area it serves.
The Historic Heart of Ealing
Ealing has long been known as the "Queen of the Suburbs", a nickname that reflects its heritage as one of London's most desirable residential areas. The borough's administrative centre, Ealing Town Hall, stands on New Broadway and opened its doors in 1889. The building was designed in the Gothic style by Charles Jones, who served as Ealing's first borough architect and surveyor.
Nearby Pitzhanger Manor represents an earlier architectural chapter. Designed by the renowned architect Sir John Soane in 1800 and completed in 1804, the manor served as Soane's weekend retreat and entertainment venue. The property's grounds now form Walpole Park, providing green space for residents. Following a major restoration project, Pitzhanger Manor reopened to the public in 2019.
Cinema Heritage at Ealing Studios
Ealing occupies a significant place in British film history. Ealing Studios, located on Ealing Green, holds the distinction of being the oldest continuously working film studio in the world. Production began on the site in 1902.
The studio's golden age came under the leadership of Sir Michael Balcon, who worked at Ealing from 1938 to 1956. During this period, the studio produced the celebrated Ealing Comedies, including "The Ladykillers" and "The Lavender Hill Mob". A blue plaque commemorating Balcon's contribution was erected by English Heritage at White Lodge within the studio grounds. The studio has also produced more recent productions, including the revived "St Trinian's" series.
Transport and Connectivity
Ealing Broadway station serves as a major transport hub for the borough, connecting residents to central London and beyond. The station provides links to the Underground network as well as National Rail services. The area has benefited from improved connectivity through the Elizabeth Line, which has reduced journey times to central London and Heathrow Airport.
What Ealing Magazine Will Cover
This publication will focus on the matters affecting Ealing residents directly. Coverage will include local council decisions from Ealing Council, planning developments, community initiatives, and the borough's diverse neighbourhoods. From Acton to Southall, Hanwell to Greenford, each area within the borough has its own character and concerns.
The magazine will also examine the balance between preserving Ealing's historic character and accommodating necessary development. With its mix of Victorian architecture, post-war housing, and modern construction, the borough faces the same planning pressures as much of London.
Looking Ahead
Ealing Magazine aims to provide factual, local reporting on the issues that shape daily life in this west London borough. Whether covering transport disruptions, school admissions, new business openings, or community campaigns, the focus will remain on accurate information relevant to residents.
Readers are invited to contribute story ideas and feedback as this publication develops. Ealing's story is best told by those who know it best: its residents.