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
153 articles
Local Life
A Perfect Day in Islington: The Complete Itinerary
How to spend a day in Islington, Upper Street, Camden Passage antiques, Exmouth Market, the canal, theatre and the best food in N1. A timed itinerary with costs.
6 min read· 21 June 2026
Nature & Outdoors
The Best Sunset Spots on Hampstead Heath
Where to watch the sunset on Hampstead Heath, Parliament Hill, Kenwood, the Pergola, Sandy Heath and Kite Hill, with the best timing, viewpoints and photography tips.
5 min read· 21 June 2026
History & Heritage
What Is Hampstead Famous For? The Village's Claims to Fame
What is Hampstead famous for? The Heath, the celebrities, the literary history, the Georgian village, Kenwood's art and London's best pubs, a complete guide.
7 min read· 21 June 2026
Nature & Outdoors
A Perfect Day on Hampstead Heath: The Complete Guide
How to spend a perfect day on Hampstead Heath, Parliament Hill, the ponds, the Pergola, Kenwood House and the best routes, viewpoints and places to eat.
8 min read· 18 June 2026
Arts & Culture
Kenwood House Concerts 2026: The Complete Heritage Live Guide
Kenwood House concerts 2026, the full Heritage Live lineup (Lionel Richie, Eric Clapton, Faithless and more), ticket types, what to bring and how to get there.
7 min read· 18 June 2026
Local Life
Two Days in North London: The Perfect Weekend Itinerary
A two-day North London itinerary, Hampstead, the Heath, Highgate, Camden, Islington and Primrose Hill across a full weekend, with timings, costs and where to eat.
6 min read· 18 June 2026
Local Life
One Day in North London: The Perfect Itinerary
How to spend one perfect day in North London, Hampstead, the Heath, Highgate and Camden in a single walkable route, with timings, costs and where to eat.
8 min read· 16 June 2026
Local Life
Hampstead Heath Parking: Where to Park, What It Costs, and When to Arrive
Parking at Hampstead Heath is possible but competitive. Here's where the car parks are and when to arrive.
4 min read· 15 June 2026
Nature & Outdoors
The Best Sunday Lunch in Hampstead: Where to Book, When to Arrive, and What to Order
Sunday lunch in Hampstead is serious business. From the Bull and Last to the Holly Bush.
5 min read· 15 June 2026
Local Life
The Best Secondary Schools in North London: A Parent's Guide
The best secondary schools in North London, UCS, Highgate School, South Hampstead High, Camden School for Girls and top state options. A parent's complete guide.
7 min read· 13 June 2026
Food & Drink
Best Pubs in North London: A Local's Guide
The best pubs in North London, from Hampstead to Highgate, Camden to Islington. Historic pubs, gastropubs, community locals and hidden gems across N1-NW8.
3 min read· 11 June 2026
Local Life
Primrose Hill: A Complete Guide to the Neighbourhood and Park
Everything about Primrose Hill, the park, the views, the village high street, where to eat, and how to get there. A complete guide to NW1's most scenic neighbourhood.
5 min read· 11 June 2026
Arts & Culture
What's On at Alexandra Palace: The Complete Events Guide
What's on at Alexandra Palace, concerts, darts, festivals, ice skating and more. Your complete local guide to events, tickets and visiting Ally Pally.
7 min read· 10 June 2026
Nature & Outdoors
The Parkland Walk: London's Longest Linear Nature Reserve
The Parkland Walk: a practical, locally written guide, what to know, where to go, and how to plan your visit.
2 min read· 9 June 2026
Local Life
Highgate Village Guide: What to See, Eat, and Do in North London
A complete guide to Highgate Village: Highgate Cemetery, Waterlow Park, the historic High Street, the best pubs, getting there, and how it compares to Hampstead.
8 min read· 8 June 2026