I decided to spend another day exploring Hampstead Heath, an area where I used to live very close to a few years ago. It’s funny because I lived only about ten minutes away, but I had never properly explored this part of the Heath. Coming back now and seeing how beautiful it is made me realise what I’d been missing.
The Garden I’d Been Missing
One of the first places I found was the beautiful garden and pergola. It’s such a pretty little area, with greenery, flowers and a really peaceful atmosphere. I found a bench in a lovely spot and decided to sit down for a while and just enjoy the surroundings. It’s the kind of place where you can sit quietly, take everything in and forget you’re actually in London.
Then Just Walking, With No Particular Plan
After spending some time there, I continued walking around Hampstead Heath. There are so many different paths and little areas to discover, and the whole place feels much more peaceful than you would expect from somewhere in London.
I also came across a beautiful historic house overlooking the area, surrounded by gardens. Kenwood House sits on the northern side of the Heath, and it has a really interesting history, which makes the place even more special.
The Ponds, Up Close
The ponds were another highlight. Some are calm, with swans and the old houses reflected in the water, while others are busy with swimmers.
The Views You Don’t Expect From London
The views around Hampstead Heath are amazing too. You can see parts of London from different points around the park, while still feeling completely surrounded by nature.
My Take
I was honestly so happy that I finally came here. It’s crazy to think I used to live so close and never visited this particular part of Hampstead Heath. Sometimes you don’t have to travel far to find somewhere beautiful. There are places like this right in London that can feel like a completely different world. For me, Hampstead Heath was the perfect place to slow down, walk around, enjoy nature and spend some time away from everything.
Before You Go
The Ladies’, Men’s and Mixed bathing ponds are lifeguarded, unheated natural water for confident swimmers: £5 adult, £3 concession. The Mixed Pond is open April to October. Parliament Hill Lido is a 60-metre unheated pool. Sessions can sell out, so book ahead.
Run by English Heritage. Free entry, 10am to 5pm daily, with paintings by Rembrandt, Vermeer and Turner.
Free, with seasonal hours. Some sections are under scaffolding for repairs. Assistance dogs only.
Parliament Hill has playgrounds and a seasonal paddling pool. Golders Hill Park, at the western edge, has flatter paths and a free small zoo.
Gospel Oak is best for Parliament Hill and the Lido. Hampstead Heath Overground suits the southern side. Golders Green is closest to the Pergola.
East Heath, Parliament Hill and Jack Straw’s car parks charge £3.50 an hour for the first four hours, then much more. Blue Badge holders park free after registering.
A mapped accessible route starts at Gospel Oak, and free mobility scooters can be booked in advance. Away from the main paths, expect steep grass, mud and roots.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does pond swimming cost?
£5 for adults and £3 for concessions and under-16s.
Is Parliament Hill Lido heated?
No. It is a 60-metre outdoor pool and the water is unheated.
Is Kenwood House free?
Yes. Entry to the house and its collection is free.
How This Guide Was Put Together
This guide is based on my own visit to the Heath, including the Hill Garden and Pergola, the open grassland, the ponds and the views. All photographs are my own. Swimming prices, parking, access and gate times were checked against the City of London Corporation, and Kenwood details against English Heritage.
- City of London: Hampstead Heath
- City of London: Swimming at Hampstead Heath
- City of London: Hill Garden and Pergola
- English Heritage: Kenwood
Last checked: 10 September 2026
Author
Steve visits every park featured on EKS Parks in person, checking practical details against councils, park operators and official sources. Every guide is based on a personal visit, and the photographs published with it are his own.
About Steve