In Good Company: Louisa Maidwell (me!)
The Autumn issue is out THIS THURSDAY so I thought it might be a good idea to re-introduce myself by answering the questions I’ve asked of so many Ealing folks over the past few months.
Please get in touch with me at ealinglivingmagazine@gmail.com if you’d like to be interviewed about your favourite places in and around the borough.
Hi, I'm Louisa Maidwell. I'm the founder and editor of Ealing Living Magazine and our second issue is due to be out in THREE DAYS!
At what stage in your life did you first move to Ealing?
We moved to Ealing almost 7 years ago, when I was 8 months pregnant and had a one and a half year old in tow. It seemed like the perfect place to start life as a proper family. The bonus of moving here at the exact time that I did was that I was on maternity leave so was able to immediately set about exploring, discovering and finding my people (small children also help with that too as you’re constantly in contact with people who are desperate to connect with other like-minded individuals.)
If you were telling someone about Ealing who had never visited, how would you describe it?
It really has something for everyone. It works perfectly for us, as a family with semi-small kids as we have beautiful parks and the buzz of a town whilst also having easy access to Central London. But when I’m not on mum duty it’s also great for wining and dining; shopping at funky independents; beautification at salons etc… and, above all, a huge number of interesting and accomplished individuals amongst whom I’ve found a load of really great friends.
To be honest, the above reasons are why I chose to start Ealing Living in the first place. It’s a fabulous place and I’m happy to be one of its champions.
Do you have a favourite Ealing watering hole?
I’m a big fan of a pub (on another timeline, I’m Peggy Mitchell) and love it when someone recommends a new Ealing watering hole. My local is Duke of Kent which I love - I go there during the daytime with my kids (we have a glass of wine while the children play on the climbing frame - ideal) but I can also be found there with my girl gang and my husband is there every week with his football mates (shout out Dad Bods United.) But I’m also a massive fan of The Grange Ealing and its Sunday roasts; I love the New Inn for a quiet pint and have been to a number of really good 40ths down Drayton Court.
We’re basically spoilt for good boozers.
Where have you had your best Ealing meal?
I love a curry at Laguna; a Chinese from North China; a Korean from Park’s Kitchen; Reineta is amazing for holiday feels; Pasta Remoli is a winner for the kids and pizza from Santa Maria is beyond compare. I'm also part-Pole so love a pierogi from Polka Kitchen. If I’m feeling particularly naughty I have been partial to a Popeyes. But don’t tell anyone.
I’m also a big fan of a Benji’s Bun and the coffee from Artisan is hard to beat (I really need a question in here about coffee! We have so many fabulous cafes!)
Is there a part of Ealing that you find particularly inspirational or where you find peace?
Pitshanger Park now feels like my spiritual hub after so many lockdowns made it the only place we visited for so many months. Specifically, my favourite part of the park is the bridge which takes you from the golf course to beautiful teeny 12th century church St Mary’s Perivale. We spent many a lockdown day playing Pooh Sticks there and I love watching the colours there change from season to season.
Tell us what you're up to & what's next for you.
No big deal but THE AUTUMN ISSUE IS COMING OUT ON THURSDAY. I’m so excited for you all to see it. We have interviews with various amazing Ealing creatives; an Ayurvedic Special; top tips from Ealing-based professionals and much much more… Please make sure you’re signed up.