Writer
Oliver Hartwell
Hampstead, London
Oliver is a lifelong Hampstead resident and architectural historian who has spent three decades uncovering the stories behind the village's Georgian terraces, hidden lanes, and literary landmarks. His writing blends meticulous research with a warm, accessible style.
Articles by Oliver Hartwell
156 articles
Local Life
Kids' Birthday Party Venues in and Around Hampstead
The best venues for children's birthday parties in and around Hampstead, from the Heath's playgrounds to indoor venues for any weather.
3 min read· 19 August 2026
Local Life
Wedding Venues in and Around Hampstead: A Guide
A guide to wedding venues in and around Hampstead, historic houses, garden settings, restaurants, and how to make the most of the Heath for photos.
3 min read· 18 August 2026
Local Life
Best Dentists in Hampstead: NHS, Private and Emergency Options
Finding a dentist in Hampstead: NHS availability, private practice pricing, emergency options, and how to register as a new patient in NW3.
3 min read· 18 August 2026
Local Life
A Rainy Day in Hampstead: The Best Indoor Things to Do
What to do in Hampstead when it rains, museums, historic houses, the cinema, cosy pubs, cafés and galleries. A wet-weather itinerary that makes the most of a grey day.
3 min read· 17 August 2026
Local Life
Choosing an Estate Agent in Hampstead: A Seller's and Renter's Guide
How to choose an estate agent in Hampstead, fees, the local agency landscape, questions to ask, online vs traditional and what NW3's market quirks mean for you.
3 min read· 17 August 2026
Nature & Outdoors
Stargazing in North London: Where to See the Stars
Light pollution makes London a hard place to see stars, but Hampstead Heath, Parliament Hill and the local astronomy society give you a fighting chance. A practical guide.
4 min read· 17 August 2026
Local Life
Where to Celebrate New Year's Eve in Hampstead
How to spend New Year's Eve in Hampstead, cosy pubs, restaurant bookings, a Heath walk for the new year, and how to avoid central London's crowds.
3 min read· 15 August 2026
Local Life
Moving to Hampstead: The Complete Removals and Relocation Guide
Everything you need for a move to Hampstead NW3 — removal company costs, moving-day parking suspensions, council tax registration, and a full checklist.
3 min read· 14 August 2026
Local Life
Hampstead High Street: The Complete Shopping and Eating Guide
Hampstead High Street mixes independent shops, historic pubs, and excellent restaurants. Here's the complete guide to shopping and eating on NW3's main street.
5 min read· 14 August 2026
Nature & Outdoors
Cold-Water Swimming for Beginners at the Hampstead Ponds
New to cold-water swimming? A beginner's guide to the Hampstead Heath bathing ponds, how to start safely, what to bring, and how to handle the cold through the year.
4 min read· 11 August 2026
Nature & Outdoors
Winter on Hampstead Heath: Ice Skating, Frost Walks, and Cold-Weather Fun
Winter on Hampstead Heath: Ice Skating, Frost Walks, and Cold-Weather Fun, a locally written, practical guide to what to know, where to go, and how to ...
2 min read· 8 August 2026
Food & Drink
Wine Bars in Hampstead: Where to Go for a Proper Glass
The best wine bars in Hampstead, relaxed spots for a proper glass, a light bite, and good conversation, day or night.
3 min read· 4 August 2026
Local Life
Physiotherapists and Osteopaths in North London: Getting Unbroken
Finding a good physiotherapist or osteopath in North London, NHS vs private routes, costs, what each profession treats and how to choose a clinic in NW3 and beyond.
3 min read· 31 July 2026
Arts & Culture
Hampstead's Artists' Studios and Open House Events
Hampstead's Artists' Studios and Open House Events, a locally written guide with insider tips, the best spots, and what to know before you go. Plan your...
2 min read· 23 July 2026
Local Life
Archway Guide: Living, Eating, and Getting Around N19
A guide to Archway: transport links, housing, food and drink, green space near Whittington Park, and how it connects to Highgate and Holloway.
4 min read· 17 July 2026