The Ultimate Brentford Travel Guide

Located in West London, Brentford is a suburban town that has become well-known for its scenic parks, historic attractions and vibrant culture. Whether you’re planning on a day visit or looking into a long-term stay, there are a number of ways you can get around the town and explore what the local area has to offer.

In this handy guide we take a look at what’s going on in Brentford, the places to visit, the restaurants to enjoy, and where you can spend your downtime if you’re staying for work.

 

Historic Attractions

Established prior to the Roman occupation, Brentford has a rich history and evidence of this has been found all over the town, with many pre-Roman artifacts having been discovered, including the famous Brentford Knot, which is on display at the London Museum. Originally, Brentford was part of Middlesex, however it became part of Greater London in 1965.

Brentford is close to a number of beautiful attractions, including the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew, with its stunning glasshouses and incredible collection of rare and unusual plant species. Being in Zone 4 on the London transport route it is also a convenient location for the capital city and everything it has to offer, close to all the museums and attractions central London has to offer.

 

Syon Park & House

The London home of the Duke of Northumberland, this 16^th century home sits in the middle of a park designed by the famous horticulturalist Capability Brown, and is well-known as Robert Adam’s architectural masterpiece. The house is open to the public on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays, while the stunning grounds are open most of the week. Syon House may seem familiar, and that’s not surprising, as the house and its grounds have appeared in films including Bridget Jones’s Diary, Gosford Park, and 1999’s Emma, as well as TV series such as Bridgerton, Cranford, Vanity Fair and Marple. 

 

 

Osterley House & Park

This beautiful Georgian estate was, just like nearby Syon House, designed by Robert Adam in the late 18^th century following changes in ownership. Now owned by the National Trust, Osterley House and Park is a beautiful example of Adam’s work. Open to the public, the stables have been converted into a café and the house and grounds are open year-round for visitors to take in the architecture, the history and the grounds.

 

 

Keeping Fit in Brentford

When you’re staying away from home, keeping fit may not be at the top of your priority list, but keeping to your personal routine can help maintain both your physical and mental well-being. There are several options available to you, whether you enjoy a full weight workout, like taking a run, or prefer doing lengths in a pool.

 

CityFit Brentford or Energie Fitness Brentford

If you’re looking for a weight workout, want to use the rowing machine, or prefer to take a few classes, either of these gyms fit the bill. Both offer a trial membership (ideal when you’re away from home for a short period for work). With regular classes, and a great collection of machines to help maintain your fitness routine, either of these gyms could be your destination of choice.

 

Brentford Fountain Leisure Centre 

Whether you fancy a relaxing swim, a game of squash or badminton, or you want to attend a last-minute dance class, Brentford Fountain Leisure Centre could be perfect. With two pools, a soft-play area for the kids, a well-equipped gym and two exercise studios, it makes for the ideal destination if you’re travelling as a family, or you’re a keen swimmer who does their best thinking in the pool.

 

Boston Manor Park

If you’re a runner then why not enjoy the beauty of Boston Manor Park as you’re running through the grounds, a combination of wild woodland and green spaces. Originally created and opened for public use in the early part of the 20^th century, the park comprises over 11 hectares surrounding Boston Manor. Open until 4pm each day, it’s the ideal spot for a lunch time wander, or a weekend picnic.

 

Richmond Park

Richmond Park is a National Nature Reserve and one of the eight Royal Parks. With wide open spaces, grassland and deer herds, it’s the perfect location to enjoy an early morning run, a slow meander through the beautifully maintained gardens, or a day of games and a picnic. Open 24 hours a day, it’s the spot to visit if you’re an early bird, and with two cafes, you can have a run and then enjoy a drink to hydrate afterwards.

 

 

Places to Eat

Whatever you’re in the mood for, whether that’s a quick latte, a full English breakfast, a casual lunch, or a gourmet dinner, there are plenty of options for you to choose from when staying in Brentford.

Breakfast

Located just moments away from Syon Park, Village Coffee Shop is a casual and relaxing place to enjoy a morning coffee, a tasty toastie or a fresh pastry.

Café S&N is located close to Brentford Station, and if the number of reviews are anything to go by, serves an incredible full English breakfast, has gluten-free options and is open at the perfect time to provide you with your early morning caffeine fix.

 

Brunch and Lunch

The Feather & Heart is Brentford’s most popular brunch spot. Close to Kew Gardens and with a beautifully designed natural interior, the all-day lunch and brunch menu is carefully crafted and served with the specialty coffee it’s renowned for.

Sam’s Waterside Brasserie & Bar has a varied menu and serves everything from oysters to seabass and pork ribeye. Open for brunch and lunch through the week, the brasserie also has a variety of cocktails on offer and has a dedicated cocktail hour Tuesday to Saturday.

 

Dinner

Treat your tastebuds to the flavours of Pakistan with a visit to Lajawaab London. Serving many traditional Pakistani dishes including curries, Naan and grilled kebab.

If you’re looking for a destination, whether it’s impressing colleagues or a special occasion with loved ones, Mood in the Park is the place to go. Set in the beautiful grounds of Syon House, and serving a menu they describe as indulgent and connected with history.

 

 

Stay at Charles Hope Brentford

Whatever reason you have for visiting Brentford, whether it’s a football match, seeing friends, or for work, this West London town has a lot to offer.

Whether you’re staying for a few nights or a few months, a Charles Hope apartment is the perfect location for you to enjoy everything that Brentford and its environs have to offer.

If you’re looking for things to do in your downtime or perhaps find the best restaurant for entertaining a client, our guest services team can help you, with personalised recommendations. We can help ensure your stay is everything you need it to be. We’re here to ensure you experience a smooth and successful business stay.

Ready to experience all that Brentford can offer? Get in touch with our team on +44 (0)203 983 6300 or email reservations@charleshope.co.uk to find out how we can make your business stay amazing.