Hampstead is one of London's most rewarding destinations for families — largely because the Heath provides so much space and freedom that children can run, explore and play in ways that city life rarely allows. Here's a practical guide to making the most of it.
Parliament Hill and Kite Flying
Parliament Hill is the most famous kite-flying location in London, and for good reason — the elevated position catches reliably good winds and the open grassland below means plenty of running room. The Model Boating Pond at the base of the hill is excellent for younger children; remote-controlled boats are allowed on designated days.
Kenwood House
The National Trust's Kenwood House is free to enter and well set up for families. The main house contains a remarkable art collection (including a Rembrandt self-portrait and a Vermeer) and the education team runs regular children's activities. The grounds feature a formal garden, a picnic lawn, and the café (Brew House) does a good children's menu.
Heath Wildlife for Younger Children
The Heath is excellent for wildlife-based family walks. The Viaduct Pond area near the eastern Heath is reliably good for spotting moorhens, coots and mallards, and the reed beds around the eastern ponds often have dragonflies in summer. The Heath's ancient oaks host treecreepers and woodpeckers — look for the telltale spiral of bark-stripping on older trees.
The Lido (Heated Outdoor Pool)
The Parliament Hill Lido is a proper 60-metre heated outdoor pool, open year-round and excellent for families. Unlike the natural swimming ponds, the Lido has lanes, a café, and changing facilities set up for children. It opens early and has a lively, friendly atmosphere — particularly popular with local families on summer mornings.
Practical Tips
The Heath has several accessible café kiosks near Parliament Hill and the Kenwood Estate, so you're never far from a snack or coffee. The terrain is uneven in places — buggies can manage the main tarmac paths but struggle on the earth tracks in wet weather. The closest tube is Hampstead (Northern line), and the walk to Parliament Hill takes about 15 minutes through the village.