2 Willow Road: Ernő Goldfinger’s Modernist Masterpiece in Hampstead
Explore 2 Willow Road, Ernő Goldfinger’s pioneering Modernist home in Hampstead, blending innovative design, art, and history.
2 Willow Road in Hampstead, London, is a striking example of Modernist architecture designed by Ernő Goldfinger in 1939. This National Trust property was Goldfinger’s family home, showcasing his innovative use of reinforced concrete, open-plan interiors, and bespoke furniture. The house features large steel-framed windows, a spiral staircase engineered by Ove Arup, and a significant collection of 20th-century art, all set against the backdrop of Hampstead Heath.
A brief summary to 2 Willow Road
- 2 Willow Rd, London, NW3 1TH, GB
- +442074356166
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Book guided tours in advance to experience detailed insights into the architecture and Goldfinger’s life.
- Visit during weekdays or early in the day to avoid peak crowds and enjoy a more tranquil experience.
- Take time to appreciate the 20th-century art collection displayed throughout the house.
- Combine your visit with a walk in nearby Hampstead Heath for scenic views and relaxation.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
- Seating Areas
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the London Underground Northern Line to Hampstead station, then a 15-20 minute walk through residential streets to 2 Willow Road. The route is mostly flat but includes some gentle inclines. No direct bus stops are very close, so the tube and walk combination is recommended. Tube fare ranges from £2.50 to £5.00 depending on ticket type.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central London to 2 Willow Road typically takes 25-35 minutes depending on traffic. This option offers door-to-door convenience but can be costly, with fares ranging from £20 to £35.
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Walking
If staying nearby in Hampstead, walking to 2 Willow Road is pleasant and takes about 10-15 minutes. The terrain is urban with paved sidewalks and some mild slopes. Suitable for most visitors with moderate mobility.
2 Willow Road location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
Discover more about 2 Willow Road
An Architectural Statement Against Tradition
2 Willow Road stands as a bold Modernist statement amid the traditional Victorian and Georgian homes of Hampstead. Designed by Hungarian-born architect Ernő Goldfinger and completed in 1939, it is the middle house of a terrace of three. Goldfinger originally envisioned studio flats but revised his plans to a block of three houses after initial council rejection. The building’s reinforced concrete frame, partly external, allows for spacious, uncluttered interiors, a hallmark of Goldfinger’s Modernist philosophy. The house’s flat roof, horizontal lines, and large steel-framed windows create a striking contrast to its more ornate neighbors.Innovative Design and Interior Features
Goldfinger designed 2 Willow Road as his family home, integrating many custom features including a spiral staircase engineered by Ove Arup. The open-plan layout maximizes natural light through expansive windows, while built-in furniture and sliding partitions enhance flexibility and functionality. Despite its Modernist rigor, the house maintains warmth through wood finishes and carefully considered proportions. The use of brick alongside concrete adds texture without compromising the clean geometric aesthetic.Art and Cultural Significance
The house contains a significant collection of 20th-century art, including works by Bridget Riley, Marcel Duchamp, Eduardo Paolozzi, Henry Moore, and Max Ernst. This collection enriches the home’s cultural value, reflecting Goldfinger’s lifelong engagement with Modernist art and design. The house’s architecture and contents together offer a window into mid-20th-century Modernist ideals and lifestyle.Historical Context and Controversy
The construction of 2 Willow Road faced opposition from local residents, including novelist Ian Fleming and politician Henry Brooke, who felt the Modernist design clashed with the historic character of the area. Fleming famously named a James Bond villain 'Auric Goldfinger' as a pointed response. Despite resistance, the London County Council approved the project, and Goldfinger lived here until his death in 1987. The house was acquired by the National Trust in 1994, marking the Trust’s first Modernist property acquisition.Preservation and Public Access
Today, 2 Willow Road is preserved and managed by the National Trust, open to visitors through guided and self-guided tours. The house has undergone careful restoration to maintain its architectural integrity while adapting to public access needs, including the addition of educational facilities. It serves as a vital example of Modernist architecture in London and a testament to Goldfinger’s innovative vision.Legacy and Influence
2 Willow Road remains an influential architectural landmark, illustrating the transition from traditional to Modernist residential design in Britain. Its daring use of materials and spatial concepts challenged prevailing norms and inspired future generations of architects. The house’s story embodies the tensions and triumphs of Modernism in a historic urban setting, offering visitors a unique glimpse into architectural history and cultural evolution.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Iron Footbridge over Regent’s Canal (Camden)
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5 Abbey Rd.
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3 Abbey Rd.
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Queen's Wood
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London Central Mosque
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221B Baker St
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Sherlock Holmes Statue
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University of Westminster Marylebone Hall
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Caithness House
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Baker St
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St Mary's Church, Bryanston Square
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Euston War Memorial
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Upper Wimpole St
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The Paddington Partnership
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Unmissable attractions to see
Keats House
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Burgh House
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Discover Burgh House, a stunning Queen Anne historic house and vibrant cultural hub in the heart of Hampstead, London.
Royal Free Hospital
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A leading London hospital blending advanced medical care with compassionate patient support in a vibrant urban setting.
Hampstead Heath
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Escape to Hampstead Heath, a sprawling urban oasis with ancient woodlands, swimming ponds, and stunning panoramic views over London.
National Trust - Fenton House and Garden
0.8 km
Explore a 17th-century merchant’s house with historic collections, stunning gardens, and panoramic London views in tranquil Hampstead.
St John-at-Hampstead Church
0.8 km
Historic Anglican church in Hampstead with classical architecture, rich heritage, and a distinctive copper spire dating back to 1747.
Freud Museum London
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Camden Art Centre
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Discover cutting-edge contemporary art and creative spaces in a historic London setting at Camden Art Centre.
Jewish Museum London
1.3 km
Explore British Jewish history, culture, and identity in a striking Libeskind-designed museum in vibrant Camden Town.
Dr. BR Ambedkar House
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Highgate Cemetery
1.9 km
A hauntingly beautiful Victorian cemetery in North London, home to Karl Marx, George Eliot, and countless Gothic tombs, where history, nature, and legend intertwine.
Roundhouse
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The Queens
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Primrose Hill
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Amy Winehouse Statue
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Essential places to dine
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wagamama camden
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Fresh Japanese-inspired dishes and vibrant communal dining in the heart of Camden’s eclectic market scene.
Mildreds Camden
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Discover vibrant international vegan cuisine and lively atmosphere at Mildreds Camden, a cornerstone of London’s plant-based dining scene.
Goodfare Italian Restaurant
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Jamon Jamon
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Laz @Camden
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Discover authentic Turkish cuisine and warm hospitality in Camden’s cozy Laz restaurant, where tradition meets vibrant London vibes.
Daphne Restaurant
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Il Sugo
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Alexander The Great Restaurant
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Frida Camden
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The Parcel Yard, King's Cross
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London Shell Co. - The Prince Regent
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Savor exceptional British seafood aboard a charming canal barge cruising the historic Regent's Canal in Central London.
Portland
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104 Restaurant by Richard Wilkins
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The Ninth
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Shop
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Zakka Camden
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Cyberdog
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Camden Threads - An online shop for the best independent brands and vintage boutiques
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Discover curated vintage and indie fashion treasures in Camden Stables Market's historic heart – where retro meets rebellious style. (112 characters)
What Goes Around Comes Around
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To Home From London
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Camden's go-to for handcrafted London souvenirs: witty mugs, sturdy totes, and homewares that pack whimsy and quality into every piece.
Camden Gift
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KESKIN GIFT
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Mr Frinky
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Unique London
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Church Street Market
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London Beatles Store
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Canopy Market
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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The Hawley Arms
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Canalside Bar
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All About Eve
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The Elephants Head
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Bucks Head
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The Devonshire Arms
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Simmons Bar | Camden Town
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Sunlight Lounge
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The World's End
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Camden Head
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Spiritland
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Cosy Cocktail Bar
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Simmons Bar | Kings Cross
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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Club Stable
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Lockside
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Soul City
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Club Swizzle
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Egg London Nightclub
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Subteranian
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Privilege Entertainment Ltd
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The Globe
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Carwash Nightclub
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101 Nightclub London
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Bordello London
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Electric House
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The Duke of Wellington
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
- Tranquil
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Minimalist Designs
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly