Hampstead has some of the most expensive homes in the world, a reflection of its easy access to London’s centre, while enjoying the semi-wild beauty of Hampstead Heath. Hampstead is home to more millionaires than any other part of Britain.
The Flask
With its public and saloon bars separated by a listed hand painted screen by Jan Van Beers, this restored Victorian pub offers good food, excellent Youngs beers and atmosphere. In the 18th century, water was sold from springs here to the expanding city below - hence the name.
14 Flask Walk NW3 1HE
Tel: +44 (0)20 7435 4580
Tube: Hampstead
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Hampstead Heath
The Heath has three open-air public swimming ponds - one for men, one for women, and one mixed. They are on the River Fleet and were originally water reservoirs. Besides fishing, walking and horse-riding, kite flying is also popular on Parliament Hill, with its legally-protected view of the London skyline.
Tube: Hampstead/Archway
The Everyman
A well-known theatre in the 1920s - Noel Coward's The Vortex was first performed here - this became a cinema in 1933. Offering alcoholic drinks and great food - that you can take into the film - it also has sofas to share and free wifi in the outside areas.
5 Holly Bush Vale NW3 6TX
Tel: 087 00 66 4777
Tube: Hampstead
www.everymancinema.com
Burgh House
Built in 1704 during Queen Anne's reign, this house underwent many changes of fortune, including being home to Rudyard Kipling’s daughter, before its transformation into a local arts centre and museum. There is also a licensed cafe: The Buttery.
New End Square NW3 1LT
Tel: +44 (020 7431 0144
Tube: Hampstead
www.burghhouse.org.uk
Kenwood House
Set in lovely grounds, with great views over London, Kenwood House was the home of brewery heir Edward Cecil Guinness. You can see art by Rembrandt (including his best self-portrait), Turner, Reynolds, Gainsborough and Vermeer.
Hampstead Lane NW3 7JR
Tel: +44 (0)20 8348 1286
Tube: Archway
2 Willow Road
Modernist architect Ernö Goldfinger was once so unpopular that he gave his name to a James Bond villain. This 1930s house, now owned by the National Trust, is filled with original furnishings and a great collection of modern art.
2 Willow Road NW3 1TH
Tel: +44 (0)20 7435 6166
Tube: Hampstead
Fenton House
This lovely 17th-century merchant's house has its own walled garden with a 300-year-old apple orchard. It is noted for its collection of early keyboard instruments, which you can apply in advance to play. Fine porcelain and some rare needlework complete the collection.
Windmill Hill NW3 6SP
Tel: +44 (020 7435 3471
Tube: Hampstead
www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Hampstead
Mystical Fairies
Every girl loves to dress up as a fairy - and this is the shop to supply her with everything she needs. A riot of pink and glitter, it’s a place to escape reality and embrace childhood with enthusiasm. In fact, you might even begin to believe.
12 Flask Walk NW3 1HE
Tel: +44 (0)20 7431 1888
Tube: Hampstead
www.mysticalfairies.co.uk
