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.
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
Local Life
A Romantic Day in North London: The Perfect Date Itinerary
The most romantic things to do in North London, the Pergola, Kenwood, sunset on Primrose Hill, candlelit dinners and cosy pubs. A date-day itinerary with timings.
Beatrice Thornton · 6 min read
Local Life
Three Days in North London: The Complete Itinerary
A three-day North London itinerary covering Hampstead, the Heath, Camden, Islington, Stoke Newington and the wider neighbourhoods, with timings, costs and food.
Oliver Hartwell · 6 min read
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.
Oliver Hartwell · 6 min read
Local Life
A Free Day in North London: The Best Things to Do for Nothing
The best free things to do in North London, Kenwood's Old Masters, the Heath, a free zoo, museums, markets and views, all for nothing. A complete free itinerary.
James Calloway · 6 min read
Food & Drink
A Foodie Day in North London: Markets, Delis and Great Restaurants
A food-focused day in North London, the best markets, delis, cheese shops, street food and restaurants from Camden to Islington. A timed itinerary for food lovers.
James Calloway · 6 min read