LONDON

HAMPSTEAD

Hampstead is one of my favorite neighborhoods in London. Only in Zone 2, Hampstead belongs to the Borough of Camden. Yet located a few stations from central London, Hampstead Village is well named because it could easily be compared to a charming little English village! As for Hampstead Heath, this park has been one of my best discoveries since I arrived in London...

ITINERARY OF A WALK THROUGH HAMPSTEAD VILLAGE

INDEPENDANT SHOPS, CAFÉS AND TRADITIONAL PUBS

As you stroll along Flask Walk, Heath Street or Perrin's Lane you'll be able to find charming cafes, traditional pubs, but also lovely independent shops. Do not hesitate to get lost in the maze of antique shops at the Hampstead Antique and Craft Emporium on Heath Street which is a must-see in Hampstead.

THE AWESOME VILLAS AND MANOR HOUSES OF HAMPSTEAD'S RESIDENTIAL AREA

As you stroll through the residential part of Hampstead, in particular through Willow Road, Holly Hill or Hampstead Grove, you'll come across magnificent villas and mansions where facades are often covered with climbing plants. Among these beautiful houses, Fenton House is a 17th century merchant's house which is now owned by the National Trust and is open to visitors.

THE PRETTY LANES AND ALLEYWAYS

If you start your journey from Hampstead Station, you'll quickly realize that a lot of narrow alleys and back streets radiate from the station. For what comes next, do not hesitate to take a screenshot of the paragraph to re-read the itinerary later...

Just across Heath Street, head to Holly Hill to walk through the residential part of Hampstead. On the right, climb Holly Mount to find Hampstead's most famous pub: the Holly Bush. Hampstead Grove then reveals hidden alleyways and steps down to The Mount. Then continue to New End to find other back streets and beautiful houses covered by climbing plants. Just behind Hampstead Station, Streatley Place is a narrow street that will take you to Mansfield Place. Finally, if you go back to Hampstead Station, Back Lane will take you back to Flask Walk, and Well Walk or Willow Road are both going in the direction of Hampstead Heath.

HAMPSTEAD HEATH

HILL GARDEN AND PERGOLA

This magical garden is a quiet hidden gem located in the North West of Hampstead Heath and is mainly surrounded by arches and pillars...

PARLIAMENT HILL

Located in the South of Hampstead Heath, Parliament Hill offers a stunning view of London's skyline.

THE SWIMMING PONDS

Need to cool off after your walk? No problem! In the western and southern part of Hampstead Heath you will find mixed and single-sex pools:

- Hampstead Pond: mixed

- Kenwood Pond: for women only

- Highgate Pond: for men only

KENWOOD HOUSE

English heritage property and former house of Dido Elizabeth Belle, Kenwood House appears today in a number of films.

GOLDERS HILL PARK ZOO

This free zoo in the West part of Hampstead Heath is the house of exotic birds and mammals such as deers.

MORE INFO

How do I get to Hampstead Village?

Hampstead Station via the Northern Line

How do I get to Hampstead Heath?

For the southern part of the park: Hampstead Heath Station or Gospel Oak via the Overground

For the western part of the park: Golders Green Station via the Northern Line

My recommendations:

GINGER & WHITE - 4a, 5a Perrin's Court, London NW3 1QS, United Kingdom

Small café offering brunch plates on weekends but also homemade cakes as well as sandwiches and salads on week days.

THE HOLLY BUSH - 22 Holly Mount, Hampstead, London NW3 6SG, United Kingdom