Nestled in North West London, Hampstead, also known as Hampstead Village, is a charming residential neighbourhood surrounded by Belsize Park, Chalk Farm, Golders Green, and Highgate. Renowned for its artistic and literary heritage, Hampstead remains a magnet for those seeking refuge from the city while staying within reach of its vibrancy. Situated near The Heath and Central London, Hampstead offers the ideal blend of tranquil countryside living and urban convenience.

Eating and Drinking in Hampstead

Restaurants

• L’Antica pizzeria: This is the perfect spot for you if you enjoy authentic pizza with a thick, doughy crust, flavorful tomato sauce, and creamy mozzarella. It’s consistently bustling for good reasons and offers reasonable prices. With its cosy atmosphere, it guarantees a lot of enjoyment.
• Gaucho:  Indulge in the epitome of steak excellence at Gaucho, which is renowned for serving some of the finest cuts of beef in the world, sourced directly from Argentina.
• Jin Kichi:  A go-to destination for authentic Japanese cuisine, offering a diverse menu featuring yakitori, sushi, traditional rice dishes, and noodles.

Bars

• The Holly Bush:  Guests can savour Fuller’s classics, such as London Pride and delightful guest ales, or venture into craft lager with their innovative Frontier. Wine enthusiasts will delight in the carefully curated collection of red, white, and rosé bottles, offering the perfect complement for cosy evenings spent in the welcoming atmosphere of The Holly Bush.
• The Horeseshoe:  A charming village pub nestled in the heart of Hampstead, The Horseshoe offers a perfect setting for enjoying exceptional drinks, delectable seasonal cuisine, and undoubtedly the finest beer selection in North London.

Cafés and Bakeries

• Hampstead Bakery:  Indulge in the signature Brioche French Toast, and buttery Croissants, or savour the delightful Basque Cheesecake offered at Hampstead Bakery
• Gails Bakery:  A beloved neighbourhood staple, delights locals and visitors with artisanal breads and delectable pastries.

Green Spaces in Hampstead

This renowned London destination features stunning countryside scenery, including picturesque trails, expansive meadows, rugged woodlands, and a variety of local wildlife. Parliament Hill, situated within the park, offers breathtaking views of the city and is a must-visit attraction. Moreover, visitors have the option to enjoy a refreshing dip in one of three public ponds. Hampstead Heath, a 790-acre public park located just six kilometres from Trafalgar Square, is also nestled within this area. Known as one of London’s oldest parks, Hampstead Heath boasts rolling hills, woodlands, and ponds. Its diverse landscape and wildlife are complemented by three open swimming ponds, a Lido, and the historic Kenwood House.

Shopping in Hampstead

Hampstead High Street, conveniently located near Hampstead Tube Station, hosts a variety of upscale shops, including Reiss, Zadig & Voltaire, Sweaty Betty, and Space NK, among others. Additionally, visitors can explore charming charity shops such as Cancer Research UK and Oxfam, which offer unique finds and support meaningful causes.

Additionally, The O2 Centre offers a diverse shopping experience with a range of shops catering to various interests and needs. Visitors can explore popular brands such as Oliver Bonas, Argos, and Flying Tiger. Whether you’re looking for fashion-forward pieces, home decor essentials, or leisurely browsing for books, The O2 Centre has something for everyone.

Transport around Hampstead

Hampstead is an ideal base for exploring London’s top attractions, with convenient access to various Tube stations on the Northern Line. A 14-minute journey from Hampstead Underground Station will transport you directly to lively Leicester Square, while a similar travel time to Green Park Underground Station offers the chance to indulge in afternoon tea at The Ritz. Within 18 minutes, you can reach St Paul’s Underground Station to admire the magnificent St Paul’s Cathedral or head to Waterloo Underground Station in just 19 minutes to experience the London Eye and sea life at the London Aquarium. To experience the trendy Camden Market, a 30-minute walk from Highgate Underground Station awaits.

Schools in Hampstead

You’ll discover a wealth of excellent options in your search for schools within the Hampstead vicinity. Renowned institutions like St. Mary’s School, Hampstead Hill School and Heathside School Hampstead sit right on Hampstead’s doorstep. With its exceptional schools and universities, Hampstead stands as a highly coveted location, particularly appealing to families with school-aged children. Rest assured, you’ll find ample choices to ensure the ideal educational fit for your child.

The History Of Hampstead

Hampstead, initially a village in Anglo-Saxon times, had its manor granted to Westminster Monastery in the 10th century CE. Evidence of an early hunter-gatherer community dates back to around 7000 BCE, with archaeological findings on Hampstead Heath. The area is mentioned in historical records, including the Domesday Book of 1086, as part of the Middlesex hundred of Ossulstone. Significant growth occurred in the 17th century, driven by the promotion of the area’s chalybeate waters for their medicinal properties. The establishment of Hampstead Wells, with amenities like a pump room and assembly room, led to the development of elegant housing in the area. Expansion continued with the introduction of railways in the 19th and early 20th centuries, connecting Hampstead to central London and facilitating further development and the creation of luxurious housing in the late 19th century. Today, remnants of this historic expansion remain, contributing to Hampstead’s unique charm and character.