Hotels near Hampstead Heath and Parliament Hill

Hampstead Heath is 320 hectares of ancient heath, woodland and ponds in north London, wilder than any of the Royal Parks. From the top of Parliament Hill, a protected view stretches across the whole city skyline, from St Paul's Cathedral to the Shard and Canary Wharf. In October the woods on the northern side of the heath turn gold, and early-morning mist often settles in the valleys.

At the northern edge, Kenwood House, an 18th-century villa remodelled by Robert Adam, is free to enter and holds paintings by Rembrandt, Vermeer and Gainsborough. The Heath's mixed and single-sex bathing ponds stay open year-round for hardy swimmers, and the water is noticeably colder by late October.

Hampstead village, with its Georgian streets and pubs, sits on the western side of the heath for a Sunday lunch after the walk.

Pro Tip: Start at Parliament Hill for the skyline, walk north through the woods to Kenwood House, and finish with lunch in Hampstead village. Wear waterproof shoes, since paths turn muddy after rain.