What is it?
Wild and undulating, the grassy sprawl of Hampstead Heath makes a wonderfully untamed contrast to the manicured lawns and flowerbeds found elsewhere in the capital – and it will feel even more delightfully rural if the City of London Corporation's ‘aspiration’ to graze sheep on the heath as a flock of organic lawnmowers ever comes to fruition.
The heath stretches across 791 acres of woodland, playing fields, swimming ponds and meadows of tall grass in north London from Hampstead to Highgate, and has provided the inspiration for countless films, books and poems.
Why go?
It is pretty darn beautiful. It is the park that inspired C S Lewis’ Narnia series, after all. On a sunny day there is really nowhere better to soak up the rays.
Don’t miss:
The dizzying heights of Parliament Hill provide a popular destination for kite-fliers when the weather turns breezy, while the Hampstead Ponds are an idyllic and hugely popular spot for a refreshing dip on hot summer days.
When to visit:
The heath is open 24 hours a day.
Time Out tip:
Why not try out one of the brilliant local pubs while you’re there? The Spaniards Inn is a personal favourite.