The Best Things to do in Hampstead and Hampstead Heath
If you have landed here, you are probably wondering what to do in Hampstead. Maybe you are on a search for the best things to do in Hampstead? Well, if you are then have come to the right place! Hampstead is one of the best places to visit in London. In this blog post I will go through some of the best things to do in Hampstead. These will include the Pergola Hampstead Heath, what to do in Hampstead Heath, the best museums in Hampstead, the best Hampstead Heath walks, etc.
What you can expect in this blog post…
… to fall in love with Hampstead and Hampstead Heath. In this blog post, I will show you some of the most beautiful parts of Hampstead through images and imagery. I will tell you about some of the historic places in Hampstead. This includes some of the best museums in Hampstead, that you might never even have heard of before. If you want to know everything about what to do in Hampstead then you have come to the right spot. But before starting, let’s talk a little bit more about Hampstead and why you should visit in the first place.
Why you should visit Hampstead and Hampstead Heath
“Why should I visit Hampstead?” You might be asking. You may even be wondering what to do in Hampstead. What makes it so special? Are there any great London landmarks or remarkable sights? What makes people love this place so much that it has over seven million people visitors a year? Well… I’ll tell you why:
The placid streets of Hampstead filled with local shops and kind-hearted people will make you forget that you are still in London. It is one of those places you go to get away from the noise of the city. This is also one of the reasons why it is one of the most expensive places to live in London. You can marvel at the houses, the local shops, the atmosphere of this charming area. Then you can dream of having a 2 or a 3 bedroom house with a view of Hampstead Heath… But will you ever actually be able to afford living here? Maybe… one day… we can only hope!
Besides being probably the most charming area of London, it also has some of London’s main attractions, and one of them is Hampstead Heath. Hampstead Heath is one of the best things to do in Hampstead. This is where you will meet all the locals for their morning runs and daily dog walks. On your way, you might even stumble upon a grey squirrel or five. They will be staring you down with a pleading look in their eyes, expecting you to have brought them some snacks.
If you are still not convinced, don’t worry, there is more… I will go through all the rest below, so keep reading to learn about all the best things to do in Hampstead! After this blog post, I assure you, you will not be questioning what to do in Hampstead.
Where is Hampstead? How to get there…
Hampstead is located in north London, England, northwest of Charing Cross. It is part of the London Borough of Camden and is easily accessible by public transport. Hampstead station is on the North London Line and can be reached within the Travelcard Zone 2. More specifically, the station is located between the stations Finchley Road & Frognal and Gospel Oak. To take the tube, you must first get an Oyster Card. You can choose between paying as you go, or you can simply choose to get a 1 week, 2 week, or 3-week pass. You can read more about the terms and conditions of the Oyster Card right here.
I think we are ready to take on the best things to do in Hampstead… here they are:
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The Best things to do in Hampstead and Hampstead Heath
1. Go on one of the Hampstead Heath walks
There are many things to do in Hampstead Heath, and one of them is to simply go for a walk. You will not believe how many beautiful Hampstead Heath walks there are scattered over the Heath. There are so many gems hidden in the area of the Heath. Here are a few of the Hampstead Heath walks you must go on when visiting:
– Parliament Hill:
Parliament Hill is one of the most popular places to go in London. Why do you ask? Because from the top of Parliament Hill you will find one of the best viewpoints of London. You will be able to see most of the iconic landmarks of London such as the London Eye, the Gherkin, and more. Besides having an absolutely stunning viewpoint, the walk up there is a beautiful one as well; it is actually considered one of the best Hampstead Heath walks.
Side-note: this place is also worth going on a cloudy/misty/foggy day! It will still be absolutely beautiful, so do not let dreary weather get the best of you. Address: Heath Lodge, London NW5 1QR, United Kingdom
– Pergola Hampstead Heath:
The Pergola and Hill Garden is one of the most beautiful places in Hampstead, all year round. This part of the heath is known for its raised pergola walkway, and the flowerbeds wrapping around the pillars of the walkway. Pergola Hampstead Heath is considered a secret garden. Despite it being the “secret garden”, during the summer months it will be a lot busier than the winter months. I would argue that winter is just as beautiful as summer. I wouldn’t recommend skipping this one, even if it is a bit cold and dreary! Address: The Pergola, Inverforth Cl, London NW3 7EX, United Kingdom
– Hampstead Bathing Ponds:
If you are coming during the warmer months, definitely do not skip visiting the bathing ponds of Hampstead. This is a unique local experience that you won’t soon forget! It is a popular place for Londoners to cool off during the hot summer months. If you love swimming then you should definitely go to the Ladies’ Bathing Pond, the Men’s Bathing Pond, or the Mixed Bathing Pond in Hampstead Heath. Address: Parliament Hill Fields, Fields Hampstead Heath, Highgate Rd, London NW5 1QR, United Kingdom
2. Admire the picturesque houses of Hampstead
If you really want to fill up your SD, then take a walk around the little side streets of Hampstead. Hampstead Village is filled with quaint houses that make you want to take photos from at least 3 different angles. This is one of the best things about Hampstead and in my opinion, what really gives this neighbourhood its charm. From the skinny pathway called Mansfield Place to the colourful Holly Walk, I would say it is worth your time to simply just wander about and admire the beauty of Hampstead Village.
3. Have a pint in some of Hampstead’s best pubs
If you are wondering what to do in Hampstead that does not require a lot of walking, then I have got you covered! In between all the walking, naturally, we need breaks… and what better place to have a break than an English pub? These are some of the best pubs in Hampstead:
– The Holly Bush
This is one of Hampstead’s most beloved pubs and a must-visit for anyone going to Hampstead. Not only is this pub absolutely beautiful inside and out it is also a place with a cozy atmosphere, great drinks, and delicious pub food. With its wood panels and feeling of warmth, The Holly Bush is probably the most cozy pub in Hampstead. Side-note: they even have some delicious vegan food options! Address: 22 Holly Mount, London NW3 6SG, United Kingdom
– The Garden Gate Pub
The Garden Gate pub has one of London’s coolest beer gardens and is considered the best hangout in Hampstead. The inside of this pub is keeps with the traditional British Pub theme. Its features and awnings scream classic British pub, and it is considered a local favourite. Address: 14 S End Rd, London NW3 2QE, United Kingdom
– The Spaniards Inn
This is yet another favourite pub in Hampstead, and it is definitely also yet another picture-worthy pub! The Spaniards Inn has been standing since 1585 and has had both Keats and Dickens as former quaffers. To this day, it has remained just as atmospheric as always with its dark panels and low beams. Address: Spaniards Rd, London NW3 7JJ, United Kingdom
– The Wells Tavern
This pub probably has one of the most perfect locations you could ever wish for. Located on the famous street, Down Well Walk, The Wells is located right down the street from Hampstead Heath, so this is the perfect place to end a day of walking around the Heath! And don’t worry if you have a furry friend with you, because Wells welcomes humans as well as dogs inside. The pub offers great food, their Sunday lunch is spectacular, and board games and has the perfect location, what’s more, to say? Address: 30 Well Walk, London NW3 1BX, United Kingdom
4. Mosey your way down The Flask Walk
The Flask Walk is a quaint side street of Hampstead filled with local shops and antiques; it is one that should not go unnoticed! The Flask Walk is located just around the corner from Hampstead Tube station. It is a pedestrian-only area with vintage shops, pubs, antique shops, cafés, and more. When walking down the flask walk, do not miss out on the Keith Fawkes Antique Shop, you will find some gems in here, so set off a little half-hour to simply just browse and search through some of the unique items you will find in this shop.
5. Explore Hampsteads Museums
If you really want to learn more about this particular part of London and its history, art, culture, etc. then you have to visit at least one of the many amazing museums in Hampstead. There are many museums in Hampstead worth visiting, but these 5 are some of the best museums in Hampstead:
– Keats House Museum Hampstead
Entrance: Adult – £7.50. Under 18 – Free.
Keats House Museum is the house John Keats, a famous romantic poet, used to live in. It is considered one of the best museums in Hampstead for lovers of literature. Today Keats House is a museum and literary center and is one of the best things to do in Hampstead for literature lovers. Inside the museum, you will find the life and work of Keats as well as the stories of how he found inspiration, friendship, and love in this house. Address: 10 Keats Grove, London NW3 2RR, United Kingdom
– Burgh House Hampstead Museum
Entrance: Free
Inside the Burgh House is the official Hampstead Museum, one of the best museums in Hampstead. Burgh House is used for events and exhibitions, and sometimes even weddings. Hampstead Museum offers artwork collections, objects, and historical insight of Hampstead from its prehistoric times to the present. Inside the museum, you will learn about how Hampstead went from being one of the poorer sides of London to today being one of the richest areas of London. Address: New End Square, London NW3 1LT, United Kingdom
– Fenton House Hampstead
Entrance: Adult – £9.50. Child – £4.75
Fenton House is Hampstead’s oldest mansion, a National Trust property and a 17th century merchant’s house. If you are the least bit interested in art or music, you should visit this place. Inside the Fenton House you will find amazing hidden treasures and collections of early instruments and ceramics. Address: Fenton House, Hampstead Grove, London NW3 6SP, United Kingdom
– Kenwood House Hampstead
Entrance: Free
Kenwood House is a former stately home located in Hampstead Heath, and it is a perfect place to visit while exploring the Heath. The Kenwood House is open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM all week. For most non-Londoners, including myself, this place will look familiar, well, because it is! It is a location in the Hugh Grant movie Notting Hill. Address: Hampstead Ln, London NW3 7JR, United Kingdom
– Freud Museum Hampstead
Entrance: Adult – £14.00. Young (12-16) – £9.00. Children (under 12) – Free
Freud Museum is one of the best museums in Hampstead. This museum is dedicated to the Austrian neurologist, and founder of psychoanalysis, Sigmund Freud. The museum is where Freud lived with his family during the last bit of his life, and in this museum you will find Freud’s famous psychoanalysis couch and other original furniture. You will also learn more about Freud, and his daughter, Anna Freud. Address: 20 Maresfield Gardens, London NW3 5SX, United Kingdom
6. Explore beyond Hampstead
If you are wanting to experience a little beyond the area of Hampstead, you should add Highgate to your list. Highgate is especially for people who enjoy exploring hidden neighborhoods with beautiful architecture and an idyllic atmosphere.
When visiting Highgate one of the main places you must pass by and have a closer look at is Holly Village. Holly Village is just off the road from Highgate Cemetery and the vision for this beautiful, Victorian Gothic architecture was first created by Burdet-Coutts with the help of architect Henry Darbishire and the one and only Charles Dickens! Do not leave your camera at home for this one.
I hope you enjoyed these top things to do in Hampstead and Hampstead Heath, I hope you found out exactly what to do in Hampstead! Now, if you are looking for more information about London in general make sure to check out my other blog posts on London:
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