A Londoner’s Guide to Hampstead – Best Things to Do

Hampstead is a charming village-like part of North London and the perfect place to visit to get a taste of the city without the craziness. Known for its intellectual history, picturesque streets and enormous park, this affluent neighbourhood provides a refreshing escape from the bustling city centre.

Whether you’re interested in exploring cultural landmarks, enjoying outdoor spaces, or indulging in local cuisine, Hampstead has something for everyone. I personally love coming here to enjoy the park, pond swimming and great pubs! Here is a list of the best things to do in Hampstead.

Walk Through Hampstead Heath

Hampstead Heath is a huge park covering 320 hectares, offering a variety of landscapes, including woodlands, ponds, and open fields. There are many trails to walk along, taking in panoramic views of London from Parliament Hill. The heath also features swimming ponds, which are open all year-round, and other sports facilities for athletics, tennis, and other activities. The best places here without doubt are the Pergola and Hills Gardens, woodland trial walks and Parliament Hill Viewpoint.

If you enjoy Hampstead Heath, be sure to check out my guide on the best parks in London for more like this!

parliament hill hampstead — London Views from Parliament Hill

Hampstead Pergola and Hill Gardens

My favourite thing to do in Hampstead is visit the Pergola and Hill Gardens. This Edwardian pergola and landscaped garden were originally part of a private estate but are now open to the public. You can walk along raised walkways, offering views over the heath and West Heath. It’s a great place for photographers, as the overgrown vines and weathered stone create a romantic, slightly decayed atmosphere.

The Pergola and Hill Gardens definitely feel like a hidden treasure within London! They’re completely free to enter and are open year-round. It’ll take you about 20 minute to walk to from the main entrances and they’re clearly marked on Google Maps, so aren’t difficult to find.

Kenwood House

The neoclassical villa, Kenwood House, is located on the northern edge of Hampstead Heath. This English Heritage site houses a significant collection of paintings, including works by Rembrandt and Vermeer. You can explore the beautifully restored rooms and learn about the house’s history through guided tours. The surrounding estate offers picturesque gardens and many walking paths.

This is definitely worth doing after enjoying the Pergola and Hill Gardens, or other parts of Hampstead Heath, given the close proximity. Kenwood House is open daily and is free to enter. For more information, or to book your free ticket, head over to their site.

Stroll Down Flask Walk

Flask Walk is a charming pedestrian lane that epitomises Hampstead’s village-like atmosphere. This narrow street is lined with independent shops, cafes, and a traditional pub. There are many antique stores, bookshops, boutiques and eateries. I love to pop down here to grab a coffee to enjoy on my walk around Hampstead Heath, or cosy up in one of the bookshops in the colder months. The street also hosts a small weekend market, adding to its lively character.

Related: Best Markets in London

Discover Literary Connections

Hampstead has long been associated with literary figures. Visitors can explore this heritage by visiting Keats House, where the poet John Keats lived and wrote some of his most famous works. The house is now a museum dedicated to his life and poetry. Other literary spots include the Freud Museum, located in Sigmund Freud’s final home, and various blue plaques marking the residences of notable writers throughout the area.

Enjoy all the Local Eateries…Especially the Pubs

Hampstead offers a wide range of dining options, from casual cafes to upscale restaurants. My favourite places to go in Hampstead are the many traditional pubs, with The Holly Bush or The Spaniards Inn, being great options! For international cuisine, there are numerous options along Hampstead High Street and Heath Street. Many restaurants in the area use locally sourced ingredients, providing a taste of seasonal British produce.

Attend Cultural Events

The area hosts various cultural events throughout the year. The Hampstead Summer Festival includes art shows, concerts, and food fairs. The Hampstead Theatre presents contemporary plays and often features up-and-coming talent. Additionally, several local galleries showcase works by both established and emerging artists, offering insights into London’s vibrant art scene.

Shop on Hampstead High Street

Hampstead High Street combines high-end boutiques with familiar chain stores and independent shops. You’ll be treated to everything from fashion, home goods, books, and specialty foods. The street retains much of its historic architecture, making window shopping an enjoyable activity in itself. On weekends, a small farmers’ market sets up near the tube station, offering fresh produce and artisanal products.

Visit 2 Willow Road

2 Willow Road is a modernist house designed by architect Ernő Goldfinger in 1939. Now managed by the National Trust, it offers visitors a glimpse into mid-20th century design and architecture. The house contains a collection of modern art and personal effects, providing insight into the lives of Goldfinger and his family. For more detailed explanations of the building’s innovative features and historical context, opt for a guided tour. Check out their official site for more information.

Visit Fenton House

Fenton House is a 17th-century merchant’s house also managed by the National Trust. It features a walled garden, a notable collection of early keyboard instruments, and displays of porcelain and needlework. Fenton House is great for its balcony, showcasing panoramic views of London. The house provides a well-preserved example of 17th-century domestic architecture and lifestyle. Check out the National Trust site for more info on visiting Fenton House.

Walk the Hampstead Scientific Trail

For those interested in the area’s scientific heritage, the Hampstead Scientific Trail offers a self-guided walk past homes and locations associated with notable scientists. The trail includes sites linked to figures such as Sir William Rowan Hamilton and Sir Julian Huxley, providing context about their lives and work in Hampstead.

How to Get to Hampstead

The easiest way to get to Hampstead is via rail. Hampstead is well connected by are overground and underground stations, as well as various bus routes. Hampstead Underground Station is noteworthy for having the deepest lift shaft on the London Underground network, at 55 meters (180 feet)!

Other great London neighbourhoods worth checking out in London include Greenwich!