Parks and Green Spaces Beyond the Heath

Hampstead Heath dominates any conversation about green space in the area — and rightly so, given its size and character. But there are several other parks and gardens in and around the neighbourhood that are worth knowing about, particularly if the Heath feels overwhelming or you want something more formal.

Golders Hill Park

Technically a separate enclosure at the north-western edge of Hampstead Heath, Golders Hill Park has a different character from the wilder main Heath — manicured lawns, a small zoo (free entry, deer, flamingos, wallabies), a walled flower garden, and a café that is open year-round. It's particularly good for families with young children: gentler terrain, enclosed spaces, and the animals are a reliable draw. The bandstand hosts free concerts on summer Sunday afternoons.

The Hill Garden and Pergola

One of the most extraordinary hidden spaces in London, and largely unknown outside the neighbourhood. The Hill Garden, set above Inverforth House on North End Way, contains a formal Edwardian pergola of great architectural ambition — a raised walkway, covered in wisteria and roses, that runs for some 800 metres above a formal garden. Built in the early 20th century by Lord Leverhulme, it fell into disrepair and was restored in the 1980s. Free entry; limited opening hours (check the City of London website). In May, when the wisteria is in bloom, it is among the most beautiful places in North London.

Waterlow Park

A 10-minute walk (or short bus journey) from Hampstead village, Waterlow Park on Highgate Hill is a formal Victorian park with three ponds, a magnificent view south over London, and the restored Lauderdale House — now a café and arts centre. Free entry. Quiet on weekdays; popular with Highgate and Hampstead families on weekends.

Keats Grove Garden

The garden of Keats House on Keats Grove is small but atmospherically maintained as it would have appeared during the poet's residence (1818–1820). The mulberry tree is a later memorial addition, but the wisteria on the south wall and the general quietude of the space are authentic to the period. Free to enter the garden; admission charged for the house.

Belsize Park Gardens

The private communal gardens in central Belsize Park (residents only) are, if you're visiting rather than living, inaccessible — but the public gardens along Fitzjohn's Avenue and around the Belsize Square area are pleasant enough for a quiet sit in summer. Not dramatic, but useful to know about as a calm spot mid-walk.