Hampstead is a vibrant and diverse neighbourhood in north London. It is known for its beautiful scenery, independent shops and charming restaurants. It also has a thriving arts and culture scene. Hampstead is home to a number of excellent schools and universities, making it a popular choice for families and young professionals.
If you are thinking about moving to Hampstead, there are a few things you should know. First, the cost of living in Hampstead is relatively high. Second, Hampstead is a very popular neighbourhood, so finding a place to live can be competitive. Having said that, if you are willing to pay the price and find the right home, living in Hampstead can be a rewarding experience.
History of Hampstead
Hampstead has a long and rich history dating all the way back to the Bronze Age. The area was first settled by the Romans around 43AD, who built a fort on Parliament Hill.
In the Middle Ages, Hampstead was a small village that was home to farmers and traders. The village grew in popularity in the 17th century, when it became a fashionable place for wealthy Londoners to escape the city.
In the 18th century, Hampstead became a popular spa town, thanks to its natural springs. People came from all over London to drink the water and to take the waters.
The area continued to grow in popularity in the 19th century, and it became a popular destination for artists and writers including John Keats, Percy Bysshe Shelley, and Virginia Woolf.
Hampstead is now an exciting and diverse neighbourhood in the 21st century. The area is now widely regarded as an up-market and affluent residential neighbourhood. Close proximity to The Heath and Central London, creates a feeling of country living with all the benefits of being close to the city.
Places to Eat in Hampstead
If you are looking for a place to eat in Hampstead, there are hundreds of options to choose from. Here are a few of the most popular places to eat in Hampstead:
L'Antica Pizzeria
Quite possibly home to the best pizzas in the capital, L'Antica Pizzeria is a little slice of Napoli in Hampstead. The wood-fire oven cooks up a treat in the form of speciality pizzas, such as Sophia Loren or the Caravaggio.
It enjoys an ideal location, just a few mins’ walk from Hampstead Tube station, and is always high in demand. You’ll have to be quick to get a seat as there are only about six tables in this cosy Italian joint — a small amount to go around for such a popular eatery.
Find at 66 Heath St, London NW3 1DN
Phone: 020 7431 8516
Email: [email protected]
Follow @anticapizzeriauk
La Creperie de Hampstead
There’s definitely a French influence around Hampstead, and one of the places it can be experienced is at the La Creperie de Hampstead. The creperie opened in 1980 and has become a staple of the area. And people flock from all over London to try one of the tasty crepes.
You’ll find it featured on TV shows and mentioned in countless guidebooks. Fortunately, those living in Hampstead are just a hop and slip away from enjoying world-famous crepes. Tres Bon, as the French say.
Find at 77 Hampstead High St, Hampstead, London NW3 1RE
Phone: 020 7445 6767
Follow @LaCrêperiedeHampstead
The Wells
The Wells is a stylish Hampstead gastropub that effortlessly combines casual pub vibes with high-end dining. Located on Well Walk, which is a few steps to the Heath, The Wells is set in a grand Georgian building and is set over two floors.
Downstairs is where the casual diners and drinkers visit after a brisk stroll on the Heath. Upstairs is where elegant dining takes place. There are 11 beers on tap, plus popular high-end pub food that includes gourmet burgers and confit duck leg.
Find at 30 Well Walk, Hampstead, London NW3 1BX
Phone no: 020 7794 3785
Email: [email protected]
Follow @thewellshampstead
These are just a few of the many great places to eat in Hampstead. With so many options to choose from, you are sure to find the perfect place to enjoy a delicious meal.
Things to do in Hampstead
Hampstead Heath
Millions flock to Hampstead Heath each year to explore the 800 acres of open space. The Heath provides sprawling countryside in a London setting with rolling meadows, scenic trails, rugged woodland and an abundance of local wildlife.
Head to Parliament Hill for sweeping views of London or visit one of three public ponds where many go for a dip. Then embrace your culture vulture with a visit to Kenwood House, the former stately home located on the northside of the Heath.
Did you know that Hampstead Heath is only an 18 minute walk from Vantage Point?
Find at Hampstead, London, NW3
Phone no: 020 7332 3322
Follow #HampsteadHeath
Hampstead Observatory
One of Hampstead’s hidden gems, it’s easy to miss the Observatory as you wander the quaint cobbled streets. But if you want to see the stars, then head to the observatory and use a 6" Cooke refracting telescope to gaze into the skies above.
The facility is open to the public every Friday and Saturday night during the observing season (usually Sept to April). It also opens up for special events, such as eclipses and comments. Go and be a stargazer at the Hampstead Observatory.
Find at Summit Lodge, 9 Lower Terrace, W Heath Road, Hampstead, NW3 6RF
Email: [email protected]
Follow #HampsteadObservatory
Hampstead Blue Plaques
You might just notice several blue plaques whilst you’re living in Hampstead. The NW3 postcode is well-known as a neighbourhood of inspiration.
So much so that it has 75 blue plaques that commemorate writers, poets, artists and those who championed innovation.
Spotting all 75, which can be found outside the former homes, is a must if you’re living in Hampstead. There are also free walking tours that take place where a guide details the history behind the plaques.
Find at various locations throughout Hampstead
Everyman Cinema and Spielburger
Today, there are 27 Everyman cinemas. But Hampstead was the first place where you could watch a movie in style. Tucked away just off Heath Street, you can sit back and relax in comfortable sofas while employees bring snacks straight to your seat at Everyman.
Before (or after) watching the latest flick, head to the adjoining Spielberger restaurant. Other than having one of the most creative names around, the restaurant servers up tasty burgers and American-inspired treats.
Find at 5 Holly Bush Vale, London NW3 6TX
Phone no: 0871 906 9060
Email: [email protected]
Follow @everymancinema
Hampstead High Street
To name just one shop on Hampstead High Street would be an injustice. It’s filled with fashion boutiques, both brands and independents, as well as local patisseries, cheese shops and delicatessens. Take a stroll down the high street on the weekend, and it’s easy to see why you’re in one of London’s prime hotspots.
Wander the high street and adjoining Heath Street and partake in some serious window shopping. Then get lost down cobbled alleyways, like Flask Walk, while admiring antique furniture, quirky shops and much more.
Find at Heath Street, London, NW3
Follow #HeathStreet
Keats House
Discover the life and times of John Keats, the famous romantic poet, at Keats House, The museum and literacy centre has several exhibits and displays which detail his life and accomplishments. There are also films and live recordings of his poetry.
The house really comes alive during special events throughout the year. These include family fun days and poetry performances from a range of poets. Even without the poetry, the bright white house is a spectacular sight itself and well worth a snap or two.
Find at 10 Keats Grove, Hampstead, London NW3 2RR
Phone no: 020 7332 3868
Email: [email protected]
Follow @KeatsHouse
2 Willow Road
You could easily walk past 2 Willow Road a hundred times and think of it as nothing more than another house on a residential street. Step inside, however, and you’ll discover a modernist home from the National Trust.
Constructed in 1939 by modernist architect Erno Goldfinger, 2 Willow Road still feels like a fresh and modern design more than 80 years after it was built. The house also contains Goldfinger’s collection of modern art and is a member of London Small Historic Houses.
Find at 2 Willow Road, Hampstead, London, NW3 1TH
Phone: 020 7435 6166
Follow @nationaltrust
Schools in Hampstead
Hampstead is also home to a number of excellent schools and universities, making it a popular choice for families and young professionals.
If you are looking for a school in Hampstead, there are a number of great options to choose from. Here are a few of the most popular schools in Hampstead:
- Hampstead School
- Highgate School
- St. Paul's Girls' School
- The Perse School for Girls
- The Camden School for Girls
These are just a few of the many great schools in Hampstead. With so many options to choose from, you are sure to find the perfect school for your child.
Transportation in Hampstead
Hampstead is well-connected to the rest of London by public transport.
The London Underground has a few stations in and around Hampstead with the main station being Hampstead station, which is on the Northern Line. Towards South Hampstead, there is also the Jubilee and Metropolitan line which stops at West Hampstead, Finchley Road and Swiss Cottage. All these stations will get you to the city centre in less than 20 minutes. If you're wanting to head to an airport, West Hampstead has direct trains to both Gatwick and Luton Airport in an hour or less.
There are also a number of buses that serve Hampstead. The 24 bus runs from Oxford Circus to Archway, and the 168 bus runs from Camden Town to Golders Green.
If you are driving, there are a number of roads that lead into Hampstead. The A1 runs through Hampstead, and the A41 runs parallel to the A1 on the west side of Hampstead.
Hampstead is also well-served by cycling infrastructure. There are a number of cycle lanes that run through Hampstead, and there are also a number of secure cycle parking facilities available.
Overall, Hampstead is a very well-connected neighbourhood. With a variety of transportation options available, you can easily get around Hampstead and the rest of London.
Cost of Living in Hampstead
Hampstead is a very affluent area in London, and the cost of living is correspondingly high. According to Numbeo, the cost of living in Hampstead is about 20% higher than the average cost of living in London.
Here are some of the key expenses to keep in mind when living in Hampstead:
- Housing: The cost of housing in Hampstead is very high. The average price of a house in Hampstead is £1.5 million, and the average rent for a one-bedroom flat is £1,500 per month.
- Utilities: Utilities in Hampstead are also relatively high. The average monthly cost for electricity, gas, and water is £150.
- Food: The cost of food in Hampstead is also higher than the average cost of food in London. The average cost of a weekly grocery shop for a family of four is £150.
- Transport: Transport costs in Hampstead are also relatively high. The average monthly cost for a travelcard is £100.
- Entertainment: The cost of entertainment in Hampstead is also higher than the average cost of entertainment in London. The average cost of a cinema ticket is £15, and the average cost of a meal at a restaurant is £30.
Overall, the cost of living in Hampstead is very high. If you are considering moving to Hampstead, be sure to factor in the high cost of living before making a decision.
Pros and Cons of Living in Hampstead
Pros:
- Beautiful scenery: Hampstead is known for its beautiful scenery, including Hampstead Heath, Parliament Hill, and the Kenwood House grounds.
- Vibrant community: Hampstead has a loyal community with a strong sense of place. There are a number of community events and organizations that residents can get involved in.
- Excellent schools: Hampstead has a number of excellent schools, both public and private.
- Good transport links: Hampstead is well-connected to the rest of London by a variety of transportation options, including the London Underground, buses, and trains.
- Diverse population: Hampstead has a diverse population, with people from all walks of life.
- Safe and secure: Hampstead is a safe and secure neighbourhood.
Cons:
- High cost of living: The cost of living in Hampstead is very high, especially for housing.
- Busy streets: Hampstead can be busy, especially during rush hour.
- Lack of parking: Parking in Hampstead can be difficult and expensive.
- Noisy: Hampstead can be noisy, especially from traffic and airplanes.
Living in Hampstead
If you are considering moving to Hampstead, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, the cost of living in Hampstead is very high. Second, Hampstead can be busy, especially during rush hour. Third, parking in Hampstead can be difficult and expensive. Fourth, Hampstead can be noisy, especially from traffic and airplanes. Fifth, Hampstead is located in north London, which can make it feel far from the city centre.
Despite these drawbacks, Hampstead is a great place to live. If you are looking for a neighbourhood that has it all, Hampstead is the place for you.
Here are some additional things to consider when deciding whether or not to move to Hampstead:
- Your budget: If you are on a tight budget, Hampstead may not be the best place for you. The cost of living in Hampstead is very high, especially for housing.
- Your lifestyle: If you are looking for a quiet and peaceful neighbourhood, Hampstead may not be the best place for you. Hampstead can be busy, especially during rush hour.
- Your needs: If you have a car, you may want to consider living in a neighbourhood with more parking. Parking in Hampstead can be difficult and expensive.
- Your wants: If you want to be close to the city centre, Hampstead may not be the best place for you. Hampstead is located in north London, which can make it feel far from the city centre.
Ultimately, the decision of whether to move to Hampstead is a personal one. Weigh the pros and cons carefully before making a decision.
Is Hampstead a nice place to live?
The picturesque village of Hampstead is a super-prime postcode in London. Filled with everything from open spaces to stylish shops, living in Hampstead means being part of a cosmopolitan community in one of London’s most sought-after neighbourhoods. Because of that, the people who live in Hampstead love where they live.
All of Hampstead's delights are easily accessible from Vantage Point in Archway. Enquire about joining our community today.
