By Sara Romo Cordero Hampstead is London's answers to the perfect day out. Even when the weather is working against you, this charming village and its beautiful green space is the perfect escape from the bustling city. Nestled next to this delightful London neighbourhood you will find Hampstead Heath, one of the most beautiful green spaces in the city - and Europe in my opinion. Here you will find sweeping views of the capital's skyline along with tranquil ponds and idyllic trails through trees and woods. This is reason alone to visit Hampstead Heath but wander back into the village and you will be spoilt for choice with fun things to do in Hampstead, London, itself. I love making a day of coming there when the daily grind becomes too much. It is great to just step back and recharge your batteries here. You could just take time to stroll through the area and appreciate its picturesque beauty, or explore the ins and outs of Hampstead Heath. I like to explore and have compiled a list of my favourite things to see when I’m in this Northern London neighbourhood.
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Discover the Village
Before heading off from London to Hampstead Heath I would recommend taking some time to explore the Hampstead Village itself first. With winding roads flanked with cafes, boutiques and restaurants, Hampstead captures London's laid-back personality - yes it exists! This is an eclectic hub where artists rub shoulders with academics and the occasional celebrity. If you do decide to make a stop here then there are a few mandatory things to do while in Hampstead and London. First up is a stroll through Hampstead High Street, the heart and soul of the village where you can discover galleries, delis and various other gems. Next, take a walk over to Burgh House where you will find a lovely cafe and museum offering insight into this London neighbourhood's history. Wet your whistle at The Holly Bush, a quaint pub where you can rub shoulders with the locals, before setting off to explore the Kenwood House, a museum housing a stunning art collection
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The Heath
There is no denying that Hampstead Heath is London's most popular park, or at least it should be. With a wide range of activities from running to bird watching, taking the kids to the playground, swimming in the open ponds if you're feeling brave (or mad) enough, Hampstead Heath has tons of things to do. Whether you come with your family, friends, or on your own, Hampstead Heath is London's quintessential park. It's the perfect place to wander around and get lost, or simply just relax. My friends and I love to come here and our favourite thing to do in Hampstead Heath is to wrap ourselves up in a blanket and watch the sun go down over the city while eating a delicious picnic. But not before you explore Hampstead!
The main attraction of London's Hampstead Heath is Parliament Hill, a hill 98 metres high that offers a breathtaking panoramic view of London: skyscrapers from Canary Wharf and the City can be seen, and even the Houses of Parliament on clear days. Also in this area of the Heath you can find the Lido, a public, outdoor pool open all year round. If you are visiting Hampstead Heath on a windy day, you can also see (or practice) some kite flying. The other headliner of the Heath is one of its many ponds. There are more than 30 ponds in the area, but just three of them are open to the public for swimming: one exclusive for women, another one for men, and one mixed.