Hampstead Heath
An untamed 800-acre heath in north London — swimming ponds, woodland walks and Parliament Hill's postcard skyline view, all free.
The call
Worth it if you are watching the budget and you only have one day.
Why
- 01
It feels like proper countryside ten minutes from a Tube stop: wild-swimming ponds, lazy meadows, and a view from Parliament Hill that locals fiercely love.
Our read - 02
The honest catch: it's deliberately rough and unmanicured, easy to get lost in, and a fair way from the tourist trail.
Our read
Is it a fit?
Go if
You are watching the budget
On a budget, Hampstead Heath still earns its price.
You only have one day
Even on a tight schedule, Hampstead Heath earns the hours.
You are traveling with kids
With kids, Hampstead Heath works.
You are traveling as a couple
As a couple, Hampstead Heath works.
Think twice if
You are planning for two
For romance, Hampstead Heath is hit or miss.
Plan it well
- Cost
- Free (ponds ~£4)
- Timing
- Dry days for the views and walking; the ponds are best in warmer months.
- Booking
- Free entry; the swimming ponds charge a small fee on the day.
- Allow
- 2–3 hrs
- Accessibility
- Some surfaced paths near the entrances, but much of the heath is rough and hilly.
- Getting there
- Hampstead Tube or Hampstead Heath / Gospel Oak Overground.