Feel transported away from the Big Smoke on just a bus or tube ride away to the hilly, green and vast Hampstead Heath. Many a heart has crumbled at the drooling of the dogs here as Man’s best friend in all shapes and sizes is absolutely everywhere.
Yes, Hampstead Heath is an open space, but it is not just for summer. Bring a picnic if you visit in the warmer months, bring your wellies if coming in winter, or bring a kite any season to fly from Parliament Hill if wind is forecast. There are plenty of drinking holes at both the Hampstead and Highgate ends to warm the toes after a bracing walk or for some much-needed and well-deserved liquid refreshment after a summer stroll. Well-deserved it will be as Hampstead Heath and the top of Parliament Hill is 98 metres (322 feet) above sea level.
The views are as equally impressive thanks to the skyline stretching from here to St Paul’s Cathedral being one of the eight protected views of London. City vistas, cute dogs, the most countryside pubs in London and a decent running or walking spot to get those daily steps in: what is not to like about this open space in the city?
Find your way with 222 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
The Hermit’s Cave is the kind of place the pub lovers ‘pop down for a quick one’ before dinner, a gentle spot for a gentle relationship with alcohol...
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Blink and you’ll miss it. This private little Loughborough Junction spot is well hidden, down a single-file alley off the otherwise unremarkable Hinton Rd.
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Bookmongers truly is one of the gems of Brixton. Just be warned, if you head down with a busy schedule, be prepared to miss your next appointment.
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Inside are people that know each other, who have helped keep their boozer free from the relentless march of gentrification while so many others failed.
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In essence, when it comes to stylish neighbourhood pizza joints, Theo’s has all the bases covered starting with banging pizza, fair prices and good drinks.
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The French House has a long-standing reputation as a central pillar in London's historic district of dastardliness and debauchery...
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"Swingers London" London is a crazy indoors golf course with a bar and lots of street food-style eateries. Tip: get a few cocktails at the bar beforehand.
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"Peckham Levels" is in one of London's most formerly notorious neighborhoods. Now it's one of the coolest neighborhoods -- come and spend a whole day here!
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I have tried to resist repeatedly getting their pain au chocolat and try something else from their wide selection of savoury treats as well...
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222 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
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✓ 222 Insider Tips