Fenton House is a 17th-century merchant’s house on Hampstead Grove in north London, with collections of porcelain, paintings, Georgian furniture, needlework and early keyboard instruments. Its rooms include harpsichords that are sometimes played during visits. Outside, a walled garden combines flowering borders, clipped hedges, lawns, a sunken rose garden and an orchard. Come for the historic interiors and give yourself time to wander the garden, which is a particular draw in summer.
A Hampstead merchant’s house
Fenton House dates to the 17th century and stands on Hampstead Grove. Its original builder is unknown, and the house remained occupied over the following centuries. The rooms bring together domestic furnishings and decorative collections, including Georgian furniture, paintings, porcelain and intricate 17th-century needlework.
Lady Katherine Binning bought the house in 1936. She left it, along with its contents, to the National Trust. The collection includes European, Oriental and English porcelain, as well as works of art and early keyboard instruments.
The keyboard collection
The house holds an important collection of early keyboard instruments, including harpsichords. On certain days, musicians play some of the historic instruments, giving you a chance to hear them in the rooms where they are displayed. Check in advance whether a performance is scheduled for your visit.
There is also a collection of paintings and ceramics to see. Information in the rooms can be limited, so a welcome talk or available information packs may help provide context for the objects and the house.
The garden and orchard
The garden is laid out within a walled space, with lawns, flowering borders and carefully clipped box and yew hedges. A sunken rose garden and topiary hollies add detail along the paths. The orchard dates back around 300 years and is planted with spring flowers including narcissi and bluebells.
Summer is a good time to see the borders in flower. The garden is also a place to pause after exploring the house, with space to walk or sit among the planting.
Planning your visit
Fenton House is in Hampstead, north London, at Hampstead Grove. The National Trust recommends booking tickets in advance, and the house is open to visitors on Fridays and Sundays. Check the National Trust website for current visit details before setting out.
Some upper floors may not be accessible on a particular day. If the attic and balcony are open, they provide views across London. Musicians sometimes play the instruments, but this does not happen on every visit.
Preguntas frecuentes
Do I need to book Fenton House in advance?
Yes. Advance booking through the National Trust website is recommended to secure entry.
How long should I allow for Fenton House and Garden?
Allow around 2 to 3 hours to see the house and explore the garden.
When is Fenton House open to visitors?
The house is open on Fridays and Sundays. Check the National Trust website for current visit details.
Can you hear the instruments being played at Fenton House?
Musicians play some of the historic instruments on certain days. Check ahead to see whether a performance is planned during your visit.
