Hampstead NW3 is a beautiful and affluent area located in the northwest of London, in the Borough of Camden. Known for its picturesque streets, charming boutiques, and leafy green spaces, Hampstead is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
Hampstead is known for its beautiful Georgian and Victorian houses, as well as its artistic and literary associations. Some notable residents of Hampstead have included the poets Keats and Shelley, as well as the actress Kate Winslet and author George Orwell. I make sure to take a walk around Hampstead on every trip I take to London. The combination of beautiful nature amongst such magnificent grand mansions and charming streets makes for a perfect inspiring walk. It may come as a surprise, but many scenes in the famous movie Notting Hill, with Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant, were filmed in the streets and shops of Hampstead. As were scenes in The Theory of Everything and The Imitation Game.
Hampstead Heath
One of the most iconic landmarks in Hampstead is Hampstead Heath. This vast expanse of parkland covers over 800 acres and is home to a variety of natural habitats, including woodlands, meadows, ponds, and wetlands. Visitors can enjoy walking, running, cycling, or simply taking in the beautiful scenery. The Heath also features a number of sports facilities, including tennis courts, swimming ponds, and a running track.
One of the most popular attractions on the Heath is Kenwood House, a 17th-century mansion set in extensive gardens. The house, which is now managed by English Heritage, is open to the public and contains a collection of paintings by famous artists such as Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Gainsborough.
Hampstead Pergola and Hill Garden
The Hampstead Pergola and Hill Garden is a historic garden located in the Hampstead area of London. The garden is known for its pergola, which is a large, open-air structure made of stone and wood, and its hill garden, which is a terraced garden that offers panoramic views over London.
The Pergola and Hill Garden were built in the early 20th century by the American heiress, Mary Beaver, as a place for her and her friends to hold parties and entertain guests. The pergola is a striking feature, it is a long walkway with arches and pillars of stone and wood, covered in wisteria and other climbing plants, it offers a romantic and secluded ambiance. The Hill Garden is built on terraces on the hillside, it features a variety of plants and flowers, and offers views over London.
The garden is open to the public and is a popular spot for visitors to enjoy the flowers and scenery, as well as for picnics, and also for weddings. The Pergola and Hill Garden are also popular for film and photoshoots.
The garden is also known for its peaceful and secluded atmosphere, which is a rarity in London, It is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some fresh air and greenery.
The Pergola and Hill Garden is a unique and historic garden that offers visitors a chance to enjoy the beauty of nature and a panoramic view of London. It’s a must-see spot for anyone visiting Hampstead, and it offers a great alternative to the usual London tourist spots.
Despite its beauty and marvel, what is surprising is how secluded it is. Perhaps it is not so advertised and well known. The first time I stumbled upon it as a young child, I thought I had entered an enchanted secret garden! I can’t deny, I still feel that to this day when I enter the garden.
Hampstead High Street
Another popular destination in Hampstead is the High Street. This charming street is home to a variety of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants. Visitors can browse through the many boutiques selling fashion, home decor, and gifts, or stop for a coffee or a bite to eat at one of the many cafes and restaurants. Hampstead High Street has been home to La Creperie since 1980, serving loyal customers delicious French Crepes. The long queue spirals onto the High which always catches passerby’s attention.
Arts & Culture
For those interested in art and culture, Hampstead is home to a number of galleries and museums. The Camden Arts Centre is a leading contemporary art space that showcases work by emerging and established artists. The Freud Museum is also located in Hampstead and is dedicated to the life and work of psychoanalyst Sigmund Freud.
Hampstead is also home to a number of historic buildings and landmarks. The Keats House is a beautiful Georgian house that was once home to the poet John Keats. Visitors can take a tour of the house and see the original manuscripts and artefacts belonging to the poet. The Kenwood House is another historic landmark in Hampstead and is home to a collection of paintings and sculptures by some of the most famous artists of the 18th and 19th centuries.
For those looking to relax and unwind, Hampstead is home to a number of spas and wellness centres. The Aqua Spa at the Hampstead Britannia Hotel is a luxurious spa that offers a range of treatments and therapies, including massages, facials, and body treatments. The Wellness Centre at the Hampstead Clinic is another popular destination for those looking to relax and rejuvenate.
Hampstead is well-connected to the rest of London by public transport. The area is served by a number of bus routes and the London Underground, with the closest stations being Hampstead and Belsize Park. The nearest Overground station is Finchley Road & Frognal.
In conclusion, Hampstead NW3 is a beautiful and affluent area of London that offers a wealth of things to see and do. With its picturesque streets, charming boutiques, and leafy green spaces, it is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.