Hampstead Heath is a large, rugged green space in north London, with open meadows, old woodland, ponds and hilly paths. Head to Parliament Hill for broad views across the city, or make time for a walk through the trees and a pause by the water. The Heath also has outdoor swimming at its bathing ponds and Parliament Hill Lido, plus cultural stops including Kenwood House and the Hampstead Pergola. Its uneven, sometimes muddy routes feel more like countryside than a formal city park, so plan for plenty of walking.
A wilder kind of city green space
Hampstead Heath stretches between Hampstead and Highgate in north London. Its landscape includes open grassland, woodland, scrub and wetlands, with habitats for birds, butterflies and other wildlife. The terrain is hilly and the paths can be muddy, so sturdy, comfortable footwear makes exploring easier.
Unlike a neatly laid-out garden, the Heath has areas that feel open and untamed. Paths take you through trees and across meadows, with ponds appearing along the way. Signs and facilities are limited in some sections, so pick up a map at Kenwood House or from the Enquiries window at the Staff Yard near the tennis courts off Highgate Road. The map can help you choose a route and find out more about the Heath’s plants, wildlife and history.
Routes, viewpoints and gardens
Parliament Hill is a natural high point for looking across London. On a clear day, the skyline includes landmarks such as St Paul’s Cathedral and the BT Tower. The hill is also a place to pause on a walk or sit with a picnic. For a shorter circuit, two routes are about 1.5 miles each; the longer Hampstead Heath Circuit is about six miles and passes Parliament Hill, Kenwood House, the ponds and the Hampstead Pergola. One route also passes close to Keats House, which requires a short detour.
The Hampstead Pergola and Hill Garden provide a different kind of walk, with a raised walkway and a garden setting. Kenwood House, at the centre of the park, is a neoclassical country house with an art collection. Its surrounding lawns are a popular place for picnics. Golders Hill Park is another destination within the wider area, with a zoo and butterfly house.
Ponds and outdoor swimming
Swimming is one of the Heath’s distinctive activities. Its natural bathing ponds include separate facilities for women and men, as well as a mixed pond. Parliament Hill Lido provides an outdoor swimming-pool alternative. Check the swimming arrangements before setting out, as advance booking is required for the bathing ponds. The water can feel very cold, so a dip may suit swimmers who are comfortable with a brisk plunge.
There are also ponds for other activities, including a model boating pond. It is shallow and is not a swimming spot. Away from the water, the Heath has space for walking, running, cycling and picnics, with playgrounds and sports facilities among its amenities. Because distances between sights can be considerable, leave time to explore more than one area rather than treating the Heath as a quick stop.
Häufige Fragen
Is Hampstead Heath free to enter?
Yes. The Heath is a free public green space.
What is the best viewpoint on Hampstead Heath?
Parliament Hill has wide views across London, including landmarks such as St Paul’s Cathedral and the BT Tower.
Can you swim at Hampstead Heath?
Yes. There are natural bathing ponds and Parliament Hill Lido. Advance booking is required for the bathing ponds, so check arrangements before your visit.
How long is the Hampstead Heath Circuit?
The longer circuit is about six miles. Two shorter official routes are about 1.5 miles each.
