Hampstead is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy exploring London during spring, with your friends and family. With a variety of green spaces, parks, and nature reserves, Hampstead is a great place for adventure and relaxation. With scenic gardens, hills and beautiful streets, shops and garden pubs, it is one of those magical neighbourhood of London. Throughout this article, we’ll talk about how to enjoy Hampstead’s outdoor activities this spring!
Visit Hampstead Heath
This large, open parkland covers over 790 acres and is one of the most popular outdoor spaces in London. Swans, woodpeckers, kingfishers, and herons live here, as well as a variety of flora and fauna. From Parliament Hill, you can enjoy the breathtaking views of London’s skyline as you explore a variety of trails, ponds, and woodlands. Unlike other tourist attractions, it does not attract a lot of tourists!
Take a Dip in Hampstead Heath, do you prefer ponds or outdoor swimming pools?
The Hampstead Ponds, what a treasure! These three open-air swimming ponds located in Hampstead Heath are an absolute haven for swimmers looking to escape the fast-paced city life. And what’s more, they’re open year-round, although spring is undoubtedly the perfect time for a refreshing dip! But if you’re more of an outdoor swimming pool person, you simply must check out the Parliament Hill Lido open swimming pool! Hampstead truly has something for everyone, and when the sun is shining, there’s no better place to be than here. Find more information about the Lido and Bathing Ponds.
Go to Golders Hill Park and Zoo
Situated near the magnificent Hampstead Heath and is an essential part of the Hampstead Heath Site of Metropolitan Importance for Nature Conservation. This park has so many entrances, making it easily accessible to everyone. Children will be in paradise with the large play area, sandpit, and even an aviary and mini zoo! The exotic mammals and birds at Golders Hill Park Zoo are simply stunning, and it’s open every day to the public. And let’s not forget that it’s conveniently located near the children’s playground, making it the perfect spot for a family day out. Golders Hill Park is nice to visit for anyone looking for a fun-filled day in the great outdoors.
Enjoy a Picnic
Hampstead’s many parks are perfect for picnics in spring. Golders Hill Park offers a peaceful setting for picnics, while Hampstead Heath offers a vibrant setting for watching the world go by. A variety of amenities are available in Hampstead’s parks, including picnic benches, playgrounds, and cafes.
Make the most of the garden’s pub in Spring!
Spring is the perfect time to visit The Holly Bush in Hampstead. Picture this: a traditional 18th-century wood-panelled pub, complete with a cozy fireplace and outdoor space. Imagine yourself enjoying a pint of cask ale or a glass of rosé amidst the vibrant atmosphere of spring.
The Garden Gate is simply divine with its lovely terrace and garden, located conveniently near the Hampstead Heath overground station. And let’s not forget about The Stag Belsize Park, where the half chicken is an absolute must-try for lunch! The Roebuck, situated in front of the Royal Free Hospital, is a hidden gem with its secret garden, which is just as delightful in the spring as it is in the winter. And after wandering around the beautiful parks, The Spaniards Inn is the perfect spot to unwind and relax in their lovely garden, it is one of the oldest pub of London. Hampstead truly has stunning options when it comes to outdoor garden’s pub!
Play a Round of Golf
Hampstead has a range of golf courses that are perfect for golf enthusiasts. You can enjoy a round of golf at the picturesque Hampstead Golf Course or the nearby Highgate Golf Club. Both courses offer stunning views of the city and are perfect for a springtime round.
Visit Kenwood House
Kenwood House is a historic stately home that is located in the heart of Hampstead Heath. The house is surrounded by stunning gardens and parkland and is home to an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. You can explore the house’s many rooms, admire the art collection, or simply take a stroll through the beautiful gardens.
Go for a Walk
Hampstead has a variety of scenic walking routes that take you through picturesque neighbourhoods, parks, and woodlands. You can explore the historic village of Hampstead, take a leisurely stroll through the Waterlow Park, or hike along the hidden paths of Kenwood House. Don’t forget to stop by The Spaniards Inn for a refreshment. Whatever your preference, Hampstead has a walk to suit your needs.
Take a ride through the heath
Get ready to feel the wind in your hair and the sun on your face as you explore the stunning Hampstead Heath on two wheels! Cycling through the Heath is the perfect way to stay active while experiencing all the natural beauty that this area has to offer. With a variety of cycling trails that take you through scenic woodlands, rolling hills, and picturesque meadows, you’ll be in awe at every turn. And the best part? You can bring your own bike or rent one from the local bike rental shops.
Highgate Cemetery is worth a visit
This fascinating cemetery is the final resting place of many famous people, including the likes of Karl Marx and George Eliot. The cemetery is divided into two parts, the East Cemetery and the West Cemetery, both offering a range of guided tours. Walking through the beautiful grounds, you’ll feel a sense of reverence and respect for the history and stories that lie beneath your feet. It’s an emotional journey that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the past and the people who have left their mark on the world.
Find the Hill Garden and Pergola
Prepare to step back in time and discover the hidden treasure that is the Pergola in Hampstead Heath! This historic garden is a true marvel that dates back to the early 20th century and was built by the wealthy businessman and philanthropist Lord Leverhulme. His grand vision was to create a lavish Edwardian estate on the grounds of a former mansion, and the Pergola was an essential part of this magnificent plan.
As you wander along the long, raised walkways of the Pergola, you’ll be surrounded by climbing plants, ponds, gardens, and other ornamental features that transport you to another world entirely. It’s a place of peace and tranquility, designed to provide visitors with a scenic retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city.
The spring season is an excellent time to visit Hampstead if you are an outdoor enthusiast looking to explore the area. With its many green spaces, parks, and nature reserves, Hampstead offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. From the breathtaking views of London’s skyline atop Parliament Hill in Hampstead Heath to the tranquil gardens of the Hill Garden and Pergola, or the number of beautiful pub’s garden, there’s plenty to explore!
