Hampstead Heath: London’s Ancient Urban Wilderness
Explore Hampstead Heath, London’s vast ancient heath with panoramic views, swimming ponds, woodlands, and rich wildlife just minutes from the city center.
Hampstead Heath is a sprawling 320-hectare ancient heath in North London, offering rolling woodlands, meadows, historic ponds, and stunning panoramic views from Parliament Hill. This vast green space features swimming ponds, sports facilities, playgrounds, and the elegant Kenwood House estate, making it a cherished natural retreat just minutes from central London.
A brief summary to Hampstead Heath
- London, GB
- +442073323322
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit Parliament Hill for one of the best panoramic views of London’s skyline, especially at sunrise or sunset.
- Try a swim in one of Hampstead Heath’s three bathing ponds, open year-round and supervised for safety.
- Explore Kenwood House and its landscaped gardens adjoining the heath for a dose of history and art.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking; the heath’s terrain is varied and includes hills and woodland paths.
- Use public transport to access the heath via Hampstead Heath or Gospel Oak stations to avoid parking challenges.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the London Overground to Hampstead Heath station, located at the southwest corner of the heath, with frequent service every 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, Gospel Oak station serves the southeast area. A single journey costs approximately £2.50-£4.00 with an Oyster or contactless card, depending on time of day.
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London Underground
Use the Northern Line to Hampstead or Golders Green stations, both about a 15-20 minute walk to different parts of the heath. Services run every 3-7 minutes during peak times. A single fare is around £2.50-£4.00 with contactless payment.
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Bus
Several bus routes serve the area, including the 268, 168, 210, and C11. Buses run every 10-20 minutes depending on the route and time. Bus fares are approximately £1.75 with an Oyster or contactless card.
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Walking and Cycling
Hampstead Heath is best explored on foot or by bike due to its size and varied terrain. Walking routes vary from gentle paths to steep hills, with some areas accessible for pushchairs and limited mobility users. Cycling is allowed on many paths but be mindful of pedestrians.
Hampstead Heath location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Cold Weather
Discover more about Hampstead Heath
A Vast Natural Sanctuary in the Heart of London
Hampstead Heath is one of London’s largest and most treasured green spaces, covering approximately 320 hectares (790 acres). It sits atop a sandy ridge, one of the highest points in the city, providing a unique landscape of hills, woodlands, and grasslands. The heath’s diverse habitats include ancient woodland, acid grassland, wetlands, and over 30 ponds, many of which are used for public swimming. Its natural environment supports a rich variety of wildlife, including 180 bird species, rare butterflies, bats, and London’s largest hedgehog population.Iconic Views and Historic Landmarks
Parliament Hill, located on the southeastern edge of the heath, rises to 98 meters and offers some of the best panoramic views of the London skyline. From here, you can see landmarks such as St Paul’s Cathedral, the City of London, and Canary Wharf. The heath also adjoins Kenwood House, a beautifully preserved 18th-century stately home with landscaped gardens, open to visitors. The area is steeped in cultural history, having inspired literary figures and served as a filming location for notable works.Recreational Facilities and Community Life
Hampstead Heath is a hub for outdoor activities. It features three open-air swimming ponds, including gender-specific and mixed ponds, all supervised and maintained to high water quality standards. The heath also offers tennis courts, an athletics track, cricket grounds, volleyball courts, and playgrounds. Golders Hill Park, adjacent to the heath, includes a free zoo and butterfly house. The Heath is a favorite spot for picnics, kite flying, dog walking, and seasonal events such as lakeside concerts.Conservation and Management
Managed by the City of London Corporation, Hampstead Heath is designated a Site of Metropolitan Importance for Nature Conservation, with parts classified as Sites of Special Scientific Interest. Its habitats and veteran trees are protected by law, and the heath is subject to ongoing ecological monitoring and conservation efforts. Visitors are encouraged to respect the natural environment, helping to preserve this urban wilderness for future generations.Access and Surrounding Neighborhoods
The heath is accessible from several London Underground and Overground stations, including Hampstead, Hampstead Heath, Gospel Oak, and Golders Green. The surrounding neighborhoods of Hampstead, Highgate, and Belsize Park add village charm to the area, with historic houses, quaint pubs, and cultural sites nearby. Despite its proximity to central London, Hampstead Heath offers a peaceful escape with a distinctly rural atmosphere.Seasonal and Visitor Experience
Open 24 hours a day year-round, Hampstead Heath adapts beautifully to all seasons. Spring and summer bring vibrant wildflowers and buzzing wildlife, while autumn paints the woodlands in rich hues. Winter offers crisp air and quiet walks, with the ponds providing year-round swimming opportunities. The heath’s varied terrain invites exploration and discovery, rewarding visitors with both tranquility and adventure.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Hawley Street Art
2.4 km
Discover Camden’s vibrant Hawley Street Art, a dynamic outdoor gallery celebrating creativity, culture, and iconic urban murals.
Iron Footbridge over Regent’s Canal (Camden)
2.5 km
Historic iron footbridge offering scenic canal views and vibrant access to Camden’s lively markets and cultural heart.
5 Abbey Rd.
3.3 km
World’s oldest purpose-built recording studio and iconic Beatles landmark in London’s St John’s Wood.
3 Abbey Rd.
3.4 km
World-famous recording studio in London where The Beatles and many legends crafted music history since 1931.
Lord's Cricket Ground
3.5 km
The world's most prestigious cricket venue and the undisputed 'Home of Cricket' since 1814.
London Central Mosque
3.5 km
London's iconic Islamic cultural landmark blending spiritual tradition with modern community engagement.
Caithness House
4.0 km
Experience the vibrant residential life of London at Caithness House, a modern flat complex perfect for tourists seeking comfort and convenience.
221B Baker St
4.1 km
Explore the iconic 221B Baker Street, the legendary home of Sherlock Holmes, and immerse yourself in the world of detective fiction and Victorian charm.
Sherlock Holmes Statue
4.3 km
Discover the charm and intrigue of London at the Sherlock Holmes Statue, a fitting tribute to the legendary detective and a must-see tourist attraction.
Euston War Memorial
4.3 km
A solemn 13-meter obelisk and bronze statues honor London’s railway workers who sacrificed their lives in World War I.
University of Westminster Marylebone Hall
4.3 km
Experience the vibrant academic life at Marylebone Hall, a historic university in London surrounded by iconic attractions and rich culture.
St Pancras New Church
4.4 km
A majestic Greek Revival church in London, blending ancient Athenian design with rich history and vibrant community life.
Woburn Walk
4.5 km
London's first pedestrianized shopping street, a beautifully preserved Regency gem in literary Bloomsbury.
Baker St
4.5 km
Discover the rich history and vibrant culture of Baker Street, home to Sherlock Holmes and a hub of London’s iconic attractions.
Fitzroy Square
4.5 km
Discover the serene beauty of Fitzroy Square, a historic garden square in London, where elegance meets tranquility amidst the city's vibrant energy.
Unmissable attractions to see
2 Willow Road
0.6 km
Explore 2 Willow Road, Ernő Goldfinger’s iconic 1939 modernist family home blending bold architecture with mid-century art in leafy Hampstead.
Keats House
0.7 km
Step into the Regency home where John Keats penned timeless poetry and found love, surrounded by tranquil gardens and literary history.
Royal Free Hospital
0.8 km
A leading London hospital blending advanced medical care with compassionate patient support in a vibrant urban setting.
Burgh House
0.9 km
Discover Burgh House, a stunning Queen Anne historic house and vibrant cultural hub in the heart of Hampstead, London.
National Trust - Fenton House and Garden
1.2 km
Explore a 17th-century merchant’s house with historic collections, stunning gardens, and panoramic London views in tranquil Hampstead.
Highgate Cemetery
1.3 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.
St John-at-Hampstead Church
1.4 km
Historic Anglican church in Hampstead with classical architecture, rich heritage, and a distinctive copper spire dating back to 1747.
Freud Museum London
1.7 km
Explore the preserved home and study of Sigmund Freud, featuring his iconic psychoanalytic couch and rich collections in tranquil Hampstead.
Camden Art Centre
1.8 km
Discover cutting-edge contemporary art and creative spaces in a historic London setting at Camden Art Centre.
Jewish Museum London
1.8 km
Explore British Jewish history, culture, and identity in a striking Libeskind-designed museum in vibrant Camden Town.
The Intrepid Fox
2.0 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and unique drinks at The Intrepid Fox, the heart of Archway's nightlife in London.
Dr. BR Ambedkar House
2.0 km
Explore the London home of Dr. BR Ambedkar, a global icon of social justice and architect of the Indian Constitution, now a memorial and museum.
Roundhouse
2.1 km
A historic circular venue in Camden where iconic music legends and emerging artists share the stage in a vibrant cultural landmark.
The Highgate Inn
2.2 km
Discover the heart of London at The Highgate Inn, a cozy pub offering delicious food, refreshing drinks, and an inviting atmosphere.
The Queens
2.3 km
Experience the heart of London at The Queens, a vibrant pub in Primrose Hill offering delicious food, craft drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Essential places to dine
Rossopomodoro Camden
2.6 km
Experience authentic Neapolitan pizza and classic Italian dishes in the vibrant heart of Camden, London.
wagamama camden
2.6 km
Fresh Japanese-inspired dishes and vibrant communal dining in the heart of Camden’s eclectic market scene.
Mildreds Camden
2.6 km
Discover vibrant international vegan cuisine and lively atmosphere at Mildreds Camden, a cornerstone of London’s plant-based dining scene.
Goodfare Italian Restaurant
2.8 km
Cozy Camden Italian eatery serving authentic pizzas, pastas, and seafood with warm hospitality and a lively street-side vibe.
Jamon Jamon
2.8 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant Mediterranean flavors in a lively NW1 London setting with rustic charm and inviting atmosphere.
Laz @Camden
2.8 km
Discover authentic Turkish cuisine and warm hospitality in Camden’s cozy Laz restaurant, where tradition meets vibrant London vibes.
Daphne Restaurant
3.0 km
Authentic Greek-Cypriot dining in Camden with warm hospitality, cozy ambiance, and generously portioned traditional dishes.
Il Sugo
3.0 km
A cozy family-run Italian restaurant in Camden serving hearty, authentic dishes with generous portions and warm hospitality.
Alexander The Great Restaurant
3.2 km
Experience authentic Greek hospitality and generous Mediterranean flavors in the heart of Camden’s vibrant dining scene.
Frida Camden
3.2 km
Authentic Mexican cuisine with vibrant flavors and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Camden, London.
The Parcel Yard, King's Cross
4.1 km
A stylish, light‑filled pub in a historic King’s Cross goods depot, serving seasonal British classics and craft drinks just steps from Platform 9¾.
London Shell Co. - The Prince Regent
4.7 km
Savor exceptional British seafood aboard a charming canal barge cruising the historic Regent's Canal in Central London.
Portland
4.8 km
Michelin-starred modern European dining in Fitzrovia, blending seasonal British ingredients with refined, creative flavors in an intimate setting.
The Ninth
5.1 km
Michelin-starred modern French cuisine with Mediterranean flair in Fitzrovia’s chic and relaxed dining hotspot.
104 Restaurant by Richard Wilkins
5.2 km
A refined modern French gem in Notting Hill offering intimate dining, exquisite tasting menus, and impeccable service in a cozy setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Shop
2.3 km
A compact, ever-changing Camden Market shop serving eclectic vintage, designer finds and small-run curios in the Stables’ maze-like atmosphere.
Cyberdog
2.3 km
Step into Cyberdog, Camden’s neon-lit rave shop where futuristic fashion meets pounding techno beats in a vibrant club-like setting.
Zakka Camden
2.3 km
Discover artist-designed cushions and design-led gifts at this quirky Camden Market gem, blending Japanese zakka charm with London's creative pulse.
Camden Threads - An online shop for the best independent brands and vintage boutiques
2.4 km
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
2.4 km
Dive into Camden's retro Americana vault at What Goes Around Comes Around, where vintage varsity jackets, Levi’s, and 80s tracksuits await in the Stables Market.
To Home From London
2.4 km
Camden's go-to for handcrafted London souvenirs: witty mugs, sturdy totes, and homewares that pack whimsy and quality into every piece.
Camden Gift
2.4 km
Quirky Camden souvenirs, stylish gear, and luggage relief on vibrant Chalk Farm Road—a slice of alternative London in one eclectic stop.
KESKIN GIFT
2.4 km
Discover handmade wonders at Keskin Gift, where Camden's craft spirit shines through chess sets, masks, and artisanal jewelry in the iconic Lock Market.
Mr Frinky
2.5 km
Compact, colourful and cheeky — a Camden Lock stall for witty signs, magnets and small‑batch souvenirs with retro flair.
Unique London
3.2 km
A vibrant clothing boutique on Kilburn High Road, offering unique fashion finds and personal service in a diverse, lively London neighbourhood.
Gift Centre London
3.2 km
Discover a unique blend of gifts, souvenirs, and practical items at Gift Centre London, your one-stop shop for memorable finds.
Little Paris Store
3.4 km
Discover vintage French charm and eclectic home and fashion treasures in the heart of Crouch End at Little Paris Store.
Coal Drops Yard
3.7 km
Where Victorian industrial heritage meets contemporary shopping and dining in the heart of King’s Cross.
Canopy Market
3.9 km
Historic Victorian market hall reviving King's Cross with independent food, craft, and community every weekend.
London Beatles Store
4.1 km
A vibrant Beatles memorabilia haven on Baker Street celebrating the timeless legacy of the Fab Four.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bobby Fitzpatrick
2.3 km
Step into a vibrant 1970s-themed cocktail bar in West Hampstead, where expertly crafted rum drinks meet retro charm and playful culinary twists.
The Hawley Arms
2.4 km
Camden’s intimate music pub — cosy sofas, punters and live gigs in a scuffed, music-filled setting.
Canalside Bar
2.5 km
Sip cocktails by the Regent's Canal in King's Cross, where trendy lounge vibes meet waterside serenity in London's revitalized heart.
The Elephants Head
2.6 km
Scruffy Victorian boozer on Camden High Street: jukebox rock anthems, Full English feasts, and late-night singalongs in London's alternative epicenter.
All About Eve
2.6 km
1950s cocktail glamour meets Camden's karaoke chaos in this retro-inspired bar with inventive drinks and heated terrace vibes.
The Devonshire Arms
2.6 km
A cosy NW1 pub where grilled dishes and small rock gigs meet—intimate evenings, unpolished energy and classic pub bones in the heart of Kentish Town Road.
Bucks Head
2.7 km
Lively Camden pub with roof terrace views, pub grub, real ales, and festive vibes opposite Buck Street Market—perfect for soaking up the neighborhood's electric energy.
Sunlight Lounge
2.7 km
An intimate Camden Road lounge serving relaxed drinks in a softly lit, conversational setting for small groups and neighbourhood evenings.
Simmons Bar | Camden Town
2.7 km
Neon-lit, budget-friendly cocktail bar in Camden with teapot cocktails, karaoke and a chaotic, retro-packed interior for groups and nights out.
The World's End
2.8 km
Camden’s legendary pub and live music venue blending rich history, vibrant nightlife, and authentic local spirit in the heart of London.
Camden Head
3.0 km
A Victorian‑charm pub on Camden High Street — hearty plates, rotating ales and comedy‑night energy that turns lively after dark.
Be At One - Camden
3.2 km
Ignite your night with 100+ cocktails, 2-for-1 happy hours, and Camden's fiercest bartenders shaking up classics and wild inventions.
Spiritland
3.7 km
Immerse yourself in exceptional sound, creative cocktails, and a vibrant music culture at Spiritland King's Cross.
Cosy Cocktail Bar
4.1 km
A stylish speakeasy in King's Cross offering expertly crafted cocktails in a warm, intimate setting perfect for evenings and private events.
Simmons Bar | Kings Cross
4.4 km
A quirky, retro-inspired cocktail bar in Kings Cross with lively music, creative drinks, and unbeatable happy hour deals.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Monster Queen
2.2 km
Dive into Camden's dark heart at Monster Queen: intimate club nights pulsing with goth electronica, historic vibes, and non-stop energy till dawn.
Club Stable
2.3 km
Historic Camden stables turned electrifying nightclub: dance in Victorian horse stalls amid live music, cabaret, and pulsing beats in London's nightlife epicenter.
Lockside
2.5 km
Canal views, craft cocktails, and DJ-fueled nights atop Camden Market's vibrant West Yard—a daytime diner turned electric nightlife escape.
Soul City
2.8 km
A Saturday-night Camden basement party celebrating soul, disco and funk with DJ-led, record-minded sets in The Jazz Cafe’s atmospheric room.
Club Swizzle
2.9 km
Dive into acrobatic cabaret mayhem at the Roundhouse: Swizzle Boys flip chairs, Reuben Kaye slays with wit, and the bar becomes your front-row thrill ride in Camden's hottest 2018 spectacle.
Max's Other Flat
3.3 km
Discover a vibrant nightlife experience at Max's Other Flat, a must-visit nightclub in London offering electrifying music and unforgettable moments.
Egg London Nightclub
3.4 km
Experience marathon electronic music sessions in a converted Victorian warehouse with vibrant terraces and world-class DJs at Egg London Nightclub.
Subteranian
5.3 km
A compact underground club on Acklam Road delivering dense, DJ-led electronic nights with an intimate, bass-heavy atmosphere.
Carwash Nightclub
5.3 km
Europe's longest-running disco since 1989: sequins, funk beats, and joyful dancing in Mayfair's retro heart. Join the glitter-fueled party!
101 Nightclub London
5.4 km
Soho's raw Saturday night pulse: intimate beats, crowded floors, and unfiltered London club energy on Wardour Street.
Bordello London
5.4 km
Dive into Soho's seductive basement beats at Bordello London, where Wardour Street's nightlife legacy ignites late-night frenzy on weekends.
Privilege Entertainment Ltd
5.4 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife at Privilege Entertainment Ltd, London's premier entertainment agency and nightclub, where unforgettable experiences await.
St Moritz Club
5.5 km
Soho's retro basement nightclub: 1960s vibes meet modern beats in an intimate, wood-paneled haven beneath a Swiss chalet restaurant.
The Globe
5.6 km
Traditional London pub by day, lively late‑night bar and club by night—large, hireable rooms and a warm, characterful interior.
Sunset night club
5.6 km
Dive into Soho's electric nightlife at Sunset Night Club, where thumping beats, craft cocktails, and dawn-chasing energy define unforgettable nights in London's vibrant core.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Mindfulness
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
