Our guide to Hampstead: the allure of the leafy, family hotspot in North London

Walking across Hampstead Heath with your kids and dog in tow, it’s easy to forget that you’re still in London - a mere 10 minute drive from Regents Park, no less. But as you reach the summit of the Northern Heights in Hampstead, you take in panoramic views of the city, which remind you of its proximity. Parliament Hill is a particularly good vantage point from which to admire the city skyline.

This appealing suburb of North London is defined by its extensive green space. But there’s more to Hampstead than its 800 acre heath. Its charming, cobbled streets, historic buildings, and cultural offerings, coupled with its extensive eateries, eclectic boutiques and exemplary schools, make it a wonderful place to spend time.

Katy Brookes, Head of Hampstead Sales at Knight Frank, says: ''In my opinion, Hampstead is the most special part of North London. There's a real ‘village’ atmosphere here with lots of historic streets and properties. It's easy to forget that you're in London.''

That history stretches back to the Bronze Age. The Romans built a fort on Parliament Hill. Then, in the 17th century, this once rural village became a fashionable retreat for Londoners. And in the 18th century, people flocked to take its natural waters.

However, it was in the 19th century that it became a hub for the artistic community. Literary greats, artists and poets including John Keats, Virginia Woolf and John Constable, made Hampstead their home. This cultural legacy continues, and Hampstead remains popular amongst artists, writers, actors and musicians. Look up as you wander around Hampstead’s streets and you’ll notice the number of commemorative plaques. There are 75 to date (with more imminent), celebrating notable residents, including Richard Burton, Charles Darwin, Sigmund Freud, Dame Edith Sitwell, DH Lawrence, Beatrice Potter and Jim Henson.

These days you’re as likely to rub shoulders with bankers and barristers as poets and painters. Hampstead is a diverse and popular place to live. With overground and underground transport links into the City and Central London, it’s easy to travel around town.

The term ‘village’ is often applied to Hampstead, and for good reason. Despite being only four miles from Trafalgar Square, it feels distinctly different from its Central London neighbours. There’s a very welcoming, close-knit community. Hampstead’s full of family-owned and run boutiques, delis, cafes and restaurants. Many locals have generations of family history in Hampstead. Once you’ve laid down roots in the area, it’s a very easy place to stay.

Chanell Quire, Associate, Hampstead Sales at Knight Frank, explains: “Hampstead’s one of the most highly sought-after neighbourhoods in London for families looking to put down roots. It’s the perfect family hideaway where homes are cherished generation after generation.”

“Hampstead has many hidden pockets, along with cobbled back streets and winding roads, where you can live quite anonymously. For people who require gated homes and security, there are plenty of options. Privacy is very important to many of our buyers,” adds Katy Brookes.

Hampstead’s rich history is evident in its attractive architecture spanning every period from the late 17th century onwards. You’ll find exceptional architectural buildings ranging from Grade II listed Georgian homes to detached mansions and characterful cottages and terraced houses.

Young families often choose to settle here and enrol their kids in the well-respected local schools. There are many independent day schools, including University College School, South Hampstead High School, Devonshire House, Heathside Prep, St. Mary’s and The Hall School. The excellent schools are a big draw for families from all over the world.

What would a typical Saturday in Hampstead look like? Here are some of our favourite ways to spend time in the area.

Boutique shopping

There’s a wonderful range of independent stores in Hampstead. The high street combines familiar brands with local fashion boutiques. Veer onto a cobbled side street like Flask Walk to browse more unusual stores, like antiques, rare books or one-of-a-kind gifts. Then there’s the Sunday artisan market for handcrafted jewellery, artwork and clothing.

Foodie hotspots

There are exceptional artisan food producers here. The Hampstead Butcher and Providore on Rosslyn Street is your go-to for high quality meat for your Sunday roast or cold cuts for a picnic (as well as delectable pre-prepared hampers). For something sweet, La Crêperie de Hampstead produces the best crepes this side of Paris.

Ottolenghi is pretty new to Hampstead and that’s made an impact. It’s hard to walk past their windows which are piled high with mouthwatering pastries and seasonal salads. Another newcomer is the Japanese restaurant, INÉ which does amazing sushi.

Pavement cafes abound in Hampstead, particularly around Perrin’s Court and Flask Walk. The Coffee Cup on Hampstead High Street is a favourite with our local Knight Frank team. Together with its sister restaurant, La Villa Blanca on Perrin’s Court, they’ve been serving local residents for 50 years.

Oak and Poppy is an all-day dining concept in the heart of Hampstead Village. The building and the food are pretty and stylish. Look out for its light-filled pink and green dining room on Instagram.

And to drink

After a bracing walk on the Heath, there’s nothing better than a pit stop at the pub. There are some brilliant, traditional pubs in Hampstead serving fine food and favourite tipples. Amongst the most noteworthy are The Flask, The Spaniards and The Holly Bush. But The Wells, The Old White Bear and The Garden Gate also deserve a mention.

There are some new players in town too. The Tipsy Dog is a cool new craft beer bottle shop and tasting room on Heath Street which is a great new addition to the area. Then on South End Road, near the heath, The WatchHouse is fast becoming a neighbourhood favourite for remarkably good coffee (and it’s dog-friendly, too).

Arts and culture scene

Looking for some cultural activities? There are plenty to choose from here. Kenwood House is probably the best known local stately home. The neoclassical manor has an art collection featuring works from Rembrandt, Vermeer, Turner and Constable.

Visit Keats House to discover where the legendary poet wrote ‘Ode to a Nightingale’. Burgh House is home to the Hampstead Museum, and it’s also a community centre with an active programme of events.

2 Willow Road is one of three terraced homes designed by architect Ernö Goldfinger. Its modernist style still feels contemporary, despite its creation in 1939. It was the National Trust’s first modernist acquisition.

Above The Horseshoe pub, you’ll find the beloved Pentameters Theatre which hosts music, comedy and open mic nights. Then there’s the Hampstead Theatre which provides an intimate setting for lesser known plays. Watching a film at Everyman is a real experience. Dating back to 1933, it’s reputed to be the oldest arts cinema.

Local art galleries include Aeon, Catto and Clarendon. The Camden Arts Centre is a contemporary gallery on the corner of Finchley Road that’s well worth looking around. But if you want to immerse yourself in artistic creations of your own making, Cass Art runs great workshops.

Outdoor swimming

Whether you’re a fair-weather swimmer or committed cold water enthusiast, Hampstead offers a few options. On the heath, you’ll find three bathing ponds - men’s, women’s and mixed - for bracing dips in the open water. They’re particularly popular on hot, summer days. Nearby Parliament Hill Lido is great for lane-swimming in the open air, followed by a warming coffee in the café.

The heath brings so many opportunities for local families. Go on a nature trail to spot wildlife. Enjoy a game of cricket or tennis on a summer’s weekend. Gather together friends and family to enjoy a picnic. Or simply take a stroll and watch what’s going on around you.