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
150 articles
Food & Drink
The Best Ice Cream and Gelato in Hampstead
The Best Ice Cream and Gelato in Hampstead, a locally written guide with insider tips, the best spots, and what to know before you go. Plan your visit with...
2 min read· 8 July 2026
Local Life
Where to Stay Near Hampstead Heath: Hotels, B&Bs, and Serviced Apartments
Staying near Hampstead Heath means early morning walks before the crowds arrive. Here are the best hotels, B&Bs, and apartments within walking distance of the Heath.
4 min read· 8 July 2026
Local Life
Parliament Hill Lido: Everything You Need to Know About Hampstead's Outdoor Pool
Parliament Hill Lido is London's finest outdoor pool, 60 metres, unheated, open year-round. Here's what to expect, how to get in, and the best time to go.
4 min read· 7 July 2026
Local Life
Hampstead Heath Swimming: Everything You Need to Know About the Ponds
Complete guide to swimming at Hampstead Heath ponds: opening times, water temperature, entry fees, the difference between the three ponds, and everything first-timers need to know.
5 min read· 7 July 2026
Local Life
A Winter Day in Hampstead: Frost, Fires and Cosy Corners
The perfect winter day in Hampstead, a frosty Heath walk, Kenwood's Old Masters, cosy pubs with fires, the cinema and a warming dinner. A cold-weather itinerary.
3 min read· 6 July 2026
Local Life
Pet-Friendly Hampstead: Vets, Groomers, and Services for Dog Owners
A guide to pet services in Hampstead, vets, groomers, dog walkers, pet shops, and why the Heath makes the area a dream for dog owners.
3 min read· 6 July 2026
Local Life
Half a Day in Hampstead: The Perfect Short Itinerary
Only have a few hours? The perfect half-day in Hampstead, the village, Parliament Hill's view and Kenwood's free art, in three or four hours. A short, efficient itinerary.
3 min read· 6 July 2026
Nature & Outdoors
Where to Go Stargazing on Hampstead Heath
Where to Go Stargazing on Hampstead Heath, a locally written guide with insider tips, the best spots, and what to know before you go. Plan your visit with...
2 min read· 5 July 2026
Nature & Outdoors
The Ancient Trees and Woodland of Hampstead Heath
The Ancient Trees and Woodland of Hampstead Heath, a locally written guide with insider tips, the best spots, and what to know before you go. Plan your...
2 min read· 5 July 2026
Local Life
Parliament Hill Hampstead: The Complete Guide to London's Best View
Parliament Hill offers the finest panoramic view of London from ground level, and it's free. Here's the complete guide: best time to visit, how to get there, and what you can see.
6 min read· 3 July 2026
Local Life
Best Bookshops in North London: An Independent's Guide
The best independent bookshops in North London, from Hampstead to Islington, Stoke Newington to Camden. A complete guide to North London's best places to buy books.
3 min read· 2 July 2026
Local Life
Things to Do in Tufnell Park: Pubs, Food and Local Life
A complete guide to Tufnell Park, the best pubs, restaurants, cafés, parks and what makes this quiet North London neighbourhood worth exploring.
7 min read· 2 July 2026
Local Life
Hampstead Events: The Annual Calendar of Festivals and Local Events
The complete Hampstead events calendar: from the Bank Holiday fairs to Kenwood concerts, the Guy Fawkes fireworks to Christmas markets. Everything that happens annually in NW3.
5 min read· 2 July 2026
Arts & Culture
Stephen King's Crouch End: The Story Behind the Story
Stephen King's Crouch End, a locally written guide with insider tips, the best spots, and what to know before you go. Plan your visit with confidence.
2 min read· 1 July 2026
Local Life
Getting to Alexandra Palace: Transport, Tube and Parking
Getting to Alexandra Palace, a locally written guide with insider tips, the best spots, and what to know before you go. Plan your visit with confidence.
2 min read· 1 July 2026