London neighborhood spotlight: Hampstead
Where you lead, I will follow…🎶🍂
That song can only mean one thing… it’s finally FALL 🙌🏼! Fall has always been my favorite season, and after the heatwaves we had in London this summer I am very thankful to hit some cooler temps.
London may be a city, but its filled with greenwry itching to change over into colorful varieties of yellow, orange & red. Depending on how long summer lasts, autumn and the changes of the leaves typically arrive early October. In my year of living here, I’ve found that the best neighborhood to experience fall is exploring Hampstead Heath. Tucked into the hills of NW London, it feels more like a village than a subdivision on the edge of hustling bustling London. Even though the shops have some chain names, everything just looks more local and quaint.
Some of the fall foliage you’ll see best here in mid October . Photo credit: Luke through my lens
Some quick tips
I personally think the best way to get the most of experiencing Hampstead is to get off at Belsize Park, that way you can walk up into the village part but still get a bit of the neighborhood feel (as well as catch the colorful leafy vines hugging the million dollar townhomes).
Get your walking shoes on because you’ll be doing a LOT of walking, and mostly uphill.
Best tube option is the northern line.
If you are hunting for fall foliage, some of the best streets for spotting are Fitzjohns Ave, Lime Ave, and the Viaduct in the Heath.
Things to do
Kenwood House
If you have seen the movie Notting Hill, you will recognize the back of this house right away. The estate was actually last owned by 1st Earl of Iveagh, Edward Guinness (yes from THAT family 🍻) before bequeathing it to the nation in 1927. Inside you will find beautiful Georgian pink & blue walls filled with 17th & 18th century paintings, jewelry, & even shoe buckles! The house is free to enter, although they do accept donations.
Hill Garden & Pergola
This is a secret gem that you’d never know is tucked behind some grandeur houses.
Explore Hampstead Heath
Arguably the best view of the city, would be parliament hill, with it’s majestic with the long grass blowing in the breeze & pups running off leash. The view pictured below is actually just off of Kenwood house within the Heath and even has a sign pointing out all the historical landmark buildings you can see.
Coffee shops
Y’all know I love exploring different neighborhoods by trying the local coffee shops. Here’s a few favorites to get your caffeine fix:
The Nook
Ginger & White
Kape Barako (it’s INSIDE a telephone booth)
Places to eat
The Holly Bush - ROAST
Ginger & White- brunch
Karma Bread
La Creperie de Hampstead
28 Church road
Silverberry - brunch
What’s your favorite London neighborhood? Where should I explore & feature next?
Sincerely,
Sarah
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