The Journal
From the Blog
Dispatches from the village — written by people who walk these streets every day. History, food, culture and the stories behind the places you love.
Local Life
The Best Areas to Live in North London: An Honest Guide for 2025
Hampstead, Highgate, Islington, Stoke Newington — how they compare on price, transport, and character.
Oliver Hartwell · 6 min read
Local Life
New to Hampstead? Everything You Need to Know About Living in NW3
A field guide for arrivals, written with the precision of an observer and the warmth of a neighbour. The geography, the rhythm, the services, and the streets worth knowing before the crowds find them.
Oliver Hartwell · 18 min read
Arts & Culture
Films and TV Shows Filmed in Hampstead
Hampstead has appeared in everything from Mary Poppins to Killing Eve. A guide to the films and TV shows shot in Hampstead and on the Heath, and where to find the locations.
James Calloway · 4 min read
Food & Drink
The Best Vegan Restaurants in North London
Where to eat well as a vegan in North London, from dedicated plant-based kitchens in Camden and Islington to Hampstead cafes with proper vegan options. A local guide.
Beatrice Thornton · 4 min read
Local Life
Hampstead vs Highgate: Which North London Village Wins?
Hampstead and Highgate are North London's two hilltop villages, separated by the Heath. An honest comparison of their pubs, views, history and feel to help you choose.
James Calloway · 4 min read
History & Heritage
Why Hampstead Has London's Deepest Tube Station
Hampstead is the deepest station on the London Underground at 58.5 metres, with the network's longest staircase. Why it is so deep, and what that means for your journey.
James Calloway · 4 min read
History & Heritage
The Highgate Vampire: London's Strangest Ghost Hunt
In 1970 two men declared a televised vampire hunt at Highgate Cemetery. The story of the Highgate Vampire, the panic it caused and what was really going on.
Oliver Hartwell · 4 min read
Local Life
Things to Do in Crouch End: A Local's Guide
Things to do in Crouch End: the clock tower, independent shops and cafés, the Parkland Walk, great restaurants and pubs, and how to spend a perfect day in N8.
James Calloway · 6 min read
History & Heritage
The Archway Bridge: History of Hornsey Lane's Famous Iron Span
The story of the Archway Bridge on Hornsey Lane, its Victorian origins, its infamous history, the views across London, and what to know before you visit.
Oliver Hartwell · 7 min read
Food & Drink
The Best Restaurants in Highgate: A Local's Guide
The best restaurants in Highgate, from village bistros to gastropubs and Sunday lunch spots. Where locals eat in N6, what to book and what makes Highgate dining special.
Beatrice Thornton · 6 min read
Nature & Outdoors
Kenwood House Gardens: A Complete Guide to the Grounds
A guide to the gardens and grounds of Kenwood House on Hampstead Heath, the lake, the woodland walks, the kitchen garden, the concerts and the best seasonal visits.
James Calloway · 7 min read
Arts & Culture
The Phoenix Cinema East Finchley: History, Programme and Visitor Guide
The Phoenix Cinema in East Finchley is one of Britain's oldest working cinemas, dating from 1910. This guide covers its history, what's on, how to book, and what makes it worth the trip.
James Calloway · 8 min read
Nature & Outdoors
Waterlow Park Highgate: A Complete Visitor's Guide
Everything you need to know about Waterlow Park in Highgate, the ornamental ponds, Lauderdale House café, the link to Highgate Cemetery, and the best times to visit.
James Calloway · 8 min read
Local Life
Hampstead Heath Map: A Guide to Every Section of the Heath
Hampstead Heath covers 790 acres across seven distinct sections. Here's how to navigate every area.
Oliver Hartwell · 5 min read
Local Life
A Perfect Day in Stoke Newington: The Complete Itinerary
How to spend a day in Stoke Newington, Church Street, Clissold Park, Abney Park Cemetery, independent food and the best pubs in N16. A timed itinerary with tips.
James Calloway · 6 min read