Guest blog by Jessica of New Mumblings:
When I first moved to the Askew Road area – or the ‘Askewniverse’ as it’s been dubbed – I was more concerned about where my boyfriend and I could enjoy a leisurely weekend brunch with the papers (Louche was our favourite). But fast forward a few years and we’re now married and two has become three, so life has definitely changed! My maternity leave meant I’ve spent a lot of time exploring our local area and now working part time, my toddler and I are out and about here a lot. It’s a great place to live – here are five of my parenting gems around Askew Road.
Lavelis
Our favourite local independent coffee shop and bakery – the staff here have known me from bump to baby and they make a real fuss of my daughter when she comes in. With children’s books, some games, a mini table and ample high chairs, this is a great spot for a delicious flat white, babycino and homemade almond pastry to share.
Wendell Park
Following the children’s playground refurbishment around a year ago, this is a great spot for younger and older children. There’s a generous play area, apparatus for all ages and a good amount of swings (a toddler essential!) The main park is large and well tended and there’s also a quieter picnic area which is fenced off, so no dogs are allowed.
Askew Library
My daughter recently got her own library card – which she found very exciting – but they offer so much more than books here. Askew Library runs a fantastic singing and reading sessions for children throughout term time – we started coming here for baby bounce when she was just 3 months old and she still visits at least once or twice each week. Staff are friendly and the library is well stocked and maintained following a revamp a few years ago.
The Eagle
The large garden is the main attraction in the summer, but this Askew Road pub is also friendly and welcoming in the winter, with a decent children’s menu and lots of space for children to explore after the meal. We came here a few weeks ago with friends and they really enjoyed the food and relaxed atmosphere.
Acton Park
Venturing a bit further afield I love Acton Park which has a lot of green space, great paths for scooter practice and a good playground. There’s a zip wire for older children and plenty of equipment for little ones. There’s also a Children’s Centre which was a great help during maternity leave. The park cafe has just had a makeover, now offering a bigger range of food, coffees and ice creams and a great range of children’s toys.
With longer, lighter spring days there’s no better time to get out and about – happy exploring!
Jessica is a new-ish mum living in and loving the Askew Road area of west London. She's most likely to be seen sipping a flat white, reviewing local events and chasing around after her active toddler – often all at the same time. A Cornwall native, she also relishes escaping to the coast when she can. She lives with her husband and, as of March 2012, little girl.
She blogs at newmumblings.com
She tweets @newmumblings
And also instagrams: newmumblings
Thank you Jessica for agreeing to share the inside scoop on getting the most out of the ‘Askewniverse’ as a parent. If you are thinking of moving to the area around the Askew Road, our office (near the Ginger Pig) will be able to help. Give our Askew Road office a call on 020 8740 8833. Or tweet us @Northfieldslive.