Hampstead Heath: Brief history and where to live nearby

Runner on Hampstead Heath, London

London’s Hampstead Heath is a vast and verdant expanse of fields, woods and ponds in the northwest of the city. Dating back to the 12th century, it was originally used as common land for grazing livestock and gathering firewood by the locals. These days, it’s one of London’s most popular open spaces – perfect for a weekend walk or picnic with friends. If you’re thinking of moving to this leafy corner of northwest London, read on for our guide to living near Hampstead Heath.

A green haven in the big city

One of the largest and most popular green spaces in London, Hampstead Heath comprises 320 hectares of meadows, woods, gardens and ponds. It’s a haven for wildlife, and there are plenty of opportunities to get involved in nature conservation projects.

The area was first developed in the 12th century when a hospital and chapel were built here. In the following centuries, Hampstead Heath was used as grazing land for livestock and gathering firewood by the locals.

As wealthy individuals fled the disease and pollution of London in the 17th and 18th centuries, Hampstead became a fashionable suburb. This trend continued into the Victorian era when grand houses and villas were built in the area.

Hampstead Heath as we know it today started to take shape in the late 19th century when some of the land was purchased by local councils to create public parks. In 1871, Parliament passed an act which protected the Heath from being built on or used for commercial purposes.

Since then, the Heath has been a much-loved spot for Londoners and visitors alike. With its wildflower meadows, woodlands, ponds and sweeping views of the city, it’s easy to see why.

Escape the hustle and bustle

Modern Hampstead Heath is a peaceful retreat for wildlife and humans alike. It’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of London and get back to nature.

In addition to its many green spaces, the Heath is home to a number of important historical sites. These include Kenwood House, a former stately home that’s now an art gallery; Parliament Hill, where you can see some of the best views of London; and Hampstead Heath Pond, one of the oldest ponds in England.

If you’re looking for a place to live that’s close to all the action but still has a sense of community, then Hampstead Heath is the perfect choice. There are a number of great neighbourhoods nearby, each with its own unique character.

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Where to live near Hampstead Heath

The area around Hampstead Heath is full of characterful neighbourhoods, each with its own unique charm. Here are just a few of the best places to live nearby:

Belsize Park

A fashionable neighbourhood with a village-like feel, Belsize Park is known for its independent shops and cafes. It’s also home to some of the best views of Hampstead Heath.

Camden Town

A lively neighbourhood with a diverse range of shops, bars and restaurants. Camden is also home to a number of renowned live music venues, making it the perfect place for music lovers.

Hampstead

A quaint and picturesque neighbourhood, Hampstead is known for its pretty streets and village-like atmosphere. It’s also home to a number of independent shops and cafés.

Kentish Town

A cool and eclectic neighbourhood with a thriving music scene. Kentish Town is also home to a number of vintage and second-hand stores, making it the perfect place for bargain hunters.

Finchley

A quiet and leafy suburb, Finchley is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of central London. It’s also well-connected, with easy access to both the city centre and the countryside.


Hampstead Heath has something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a sense of community or a taste of the city life. So why not take a look around and see what this vibrant area has to offer? You might just fall in love with it.

What is HomeViews?

Best new build developments near Hampstead Heath

If you’re looking for a brand new home near Hampstead Heath, there are plenty of developments to choose from. All our ratings come from verified residents, so you can be sure you’re getting an accurate picture of each development.

The Quarters Swiss Cottage, NW3

The Quarters by Bravo
4.78 (95 reviews) 4.78 (95 reviews)
Area guide to Borough of Camden
Image of The Quarters Swiss Cottage, NW3
The Quarters Swiss Cottage accommodates 102 self-contained spacious units for short-term stays. Guests can enjoy a range of services and amenities, including in house maintenance and housekeeping. Similarly, Finchley Road station  is less than a minute’s walk away, meaning easy access to transport links. Likewise, there is a great selection of shops, restaurants, bars and […] Read reviews and details of The Quarters Swiss Cottage, NW3

Vantage Point, N19

Essential Living
4.59 (177 reviews) 4.59 (177 reviews)
Area guide to Holloway
Image of Vantage Point, N19
Vantage Point is a Build to Rent development by Essential Living, offering 118 studios, one-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments. All Vantage Point residents get access to a range of features and amenities. These include a 24-hour onsite team, a rooftop BBQ terrace, games room and exercise room. In addition, the development is above Archway London Underground […] Read reviews and details of Vantage Point, N19

Stone Studios, E9

Telford Homes
4.34 (26 reviews) 4.34 (26 reviews)
Area guide to Borough of Hackney
Image of Stone Studios, E9
Stone Studios is a development by Telford Homes consisting of 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments. Located in Hackney, Stone Studios is a 2 minute walk from Hackney Wick station. Furthermore, Stratford is only 2 minutes and Kings Cross is 20 minutes away by train. Additionally, residents at the development benefit from amenities such as […] Read reviews and details of Stone Studios, E9

Hendon Waterside, NW9

Barratt London
3.81 (143 reviews) 3.81 (143 reviews)
Area guide to Colindale
Image of Hendon Waterside, NW9
Hendon Waterside is a large regeneration scheme by Barratt London. Comprised of over 2,000 one, two and three-bedroom homes, this development is located in West Hendon. Which is also adjacent to the Welsh Harp Reservoir. As well as this, it is a 5-minute walk from Hendon station, it has direct links to Central London. Read reviews and details of Hendon Waterside, NW9

Edition, NW9

Fairview New Homes
3.30 (9 reviews) 3.30 (9 reviews)
Area guide to Colindale
Image of Edition, NW9
Edition is a Fairview New Homes development, which has been built on the former British Newspaper Library site in Colindale. It is comprised of 395 one to three-bedroom apartments and is conveniently positioned opposite Colindale underground station, which services the Northern line. Read reviews and details of Edition, NW9

Hampstead Manor, NW3

Mount Anvil
4.33 (18 reviews) 4.33 (18 reviews)
Area guide to Borough of Camden
Image of Hampstead Manor, NW3
Hampstead Manor is in a prime setting, just minutes from the centre of Hampstead Village. Additionally, it offers a selection of 156 homes set over 13 buildings. The units range from contemporary apartments to expertly converted Grade II listed heritage properties. Read reviews and details of Hampstead Manor, NW3

More options in the area

If you’re not set on a new build development, there are plenty of other options to choose from in the area. Whether you’re looking for a family home or somewhere to downsize, you’re sure to find something that suits your needs.

North East London

North East London
North East London may not receive as much attention as its more glamorous neighbours. However, this buzzing corner of the capital is attracting plenty of property hunters right now… Great value homes? Check. Top schools? Check. Diverse, lively culture? Check and check. Developers have Read more about North East London

North London

North London
Welcome to North London, home to some of the most popular postcodes in the capital. This place fuses charming village centres with architectural gems and fashionable high streets, so it’s easy to see why half of London’s eight million-strong population have laid down roots Read more about North London

HomeViews is the only independent review platform for residential developments in the UK. Prospective buyers and tenants use it to make an informed decision on where to live based on insights from carefully verified resident reviews. Part of Rightmove since February 2024, we’re working with developers, house builders, operators, housing associations and the Government to give residents a voice, recognise high performers and to help improve standards across the industry.

HomeViews is the only independent review platform for residential developments in the UK. Prospective buyers and tenants use it to make an informed decision on where to live based on insights from carefully verified resident reviews. Part of Rightmove since February 2024, we’re working with developers, house builders, operators, housing associations and the Government to give residents a voice, recognise high performers and to help improve standards across the industry.

written by

Jan Moys

A residential property expert with over 15 years’ experience creating content... Read all

A residential property expert with ov... Read all