North London

North London is the part of the city for hills, views and big open heathland. Some of the best free viewpoints in London are here, from the top of Primrose Hill to the terrace at Alexandra Palace, and the area also has quieter wooded parks that feel a long way from the traffic.

Hills and skyline views. Primrose Hill, next to The Regent’s Park, gives one of the classic views across central London and is a favourite spot for picnics and kite flying. Alexandra Park sits below Alexandra Palace, and the climb up is rewarded with a wide view over the city. Hampstead Heath has Parliament Hill, another famous viewpoint, as well as swimming ponds, woodland and Kenwood House.

Quieter green spaces. Waterlow Park in Highgate has ponds, terraced gardens and Lauderdale House, and it is often calmer than the Heath nearby. Golders Hill Park, on the western edge of Hampstead Heath, has a walled garden and a small free zoo, which makes it a good choice with young children. Trent Country Park at Cockfosters, right at the end of the Piccadilly line, has woodland walks and lakes and feels more like countryside than city.

Everyday parks. Finsbury Park has a boating lake, sports facilities and a link to the Parkland Walk, an old railway line turned into a green path towards Highgate. The southern part of Epping Forest also reaches into North-East London.

Which park should you choose? For the best view, Primrose Hill or Alexandra Park. For a full day out with swimming and long walks, Hampstead Heath. For young children, Golders Hill Park. For a peaceful walk, Waterlow Park or Trent Country Park.

Practical tips. Many North London parks are on hills, so expect some climbing, especially at Alexandra Park and Hampstead Heath. The Northern line, Piccadilly line and Overground serve most of them. Parking is limited around Hampstead and Highgate, while Trent Country Park and Alexandra Palace have their own car parks. Every guide below is based on my own visit, with my own photos and practical details checked against official sources.