Hampstead occupies one of London’s highest points, 134 metres above sea level. This elevated position has shaped its development since the 18th century, when wealthy Londoners built country houses here to escape the city’s smog. The area has long drawn writers, artists, and intellectuals including John Keats, George Orwell, and Daphne du Maurier.

The area retains much of its Georgian and Victorian architecture, with streets following their original contours. The sloping Hampstead High Street sustains a quiet and quaint atmosphere, with independent boutiques occupying many of the historic buildings.

Hampstead’s housing stock centres on grand Victorian and Georgian properties, with numerous Grade I and II listed buildings throughout. The area features imposing detached houses, elegant terraces, and converted period flats. Some modern developments are tastefully integrated with the traditional architecture – an increasing reality as the area grows in value.

The most prestigious properties line Redington Road, Templewood Avenue, and Winnington Road, where substantial detached houses sit within large gardens. The streets around Hampstead High Street contain beautiful Georgian townhouses, while Flask Walk and Heath Street feature an array of cosy, period properties and the occasional mews style home.

Hampstead Developments
New developments remain limited due to conservation regulations. However, select projects like New End 29 demonstrate the gradual ingress of contemporary architecture into more historical streets. Careful conversions of period properties into luxury flats are a common way to develop property without requiring more extensive planning permission.

This well-placed area offers several travel options for getting around London and beyond.

• Car & Road – Hampstead sits close to several major routes, including the A41 Finchley Road and the North Circular, providing links to central London and the M1 motorway. Central London lies 20-30 minutes away by car, while Heathrow Airport takes approximately 45 minutes.
• Bus – Multiple bus routes serve the area, including the 24-hour C11, 46, and 268 services, connecting to Camden Town, Kings Cross, and Swiss Cottage.
• Train – Hampstead Heath Overground station offers direct services to Richmond and Stratford, while West Hampstead provides additional National Rail connections.

Hampstead’s historic streets and green spaces house numerous notable locations.

• Kenwood House – This neoclassical villa contains valuable artworks from the Masters, and 112 acres of beautiful parkland designed by Humphry Repton (Hampstead Lane, NW3 7JR).
• 2 Willow Road – Modernist architect Ernő Goldfinger’s former home, now a National Trust property and historically relevant landmark (2 Willow Road, NW3 1TH).
• Keats House – The poet’s former residence, now a museum which hosts poetic, literary and educational events throughout the year (10 Keats Grove, NW3 2RR).
• Hampstead Observatory – This restored observatory allows for public viewings of the night sky through the 6″ Cooke refracting telescope (Hampstead Heath, NW3).
• Fenton House – 17th-century merchant’s house containing historical craftworks, artefacts and ceramics alongside manicured gardens and a well-kept orchard with 32 varieties of heritage fruits (Hampstead Grove, NW3 6SP).

University College School (UCS)

Frognal, Hampstead, London NW3 6XH, ages 4–18 years, boys (co-educational in Sixth Form)

Founded in 1830, University College School (UCS) is renowned for its intellectual curiosity and independence of thought, encouraging students to engage deeply with their studies. UCS boasts impressive facilities, including state-of-the-art science laboratories, a modern library, and extensive sports grounds. The school’s alumni network includes notable figures such as actor Hugh Dennis and comedian Michael McIntyre. UCS consistently achieves outstanding examination results, with a significant number of students progressing to top universities.

South Hampstead High School

3 Maresfield Gardens, London NW3 5SS, ages 4–18 years, girls

Established in 1876, South Hampstead High School is celebrated for its vibrant and creative atmosphere, coupled with a strong academic tradition. As part of the Girls’ Day School Trust, it offers a stimulating environment that encourages students to excel. The school provides a wide range of extracurricular activities, fostering well-rounded development. Recent achievements include exceptional performance in public examinations and successful placements in some of the best universities.

Devonshire House Preparatory School

2 Arkwright Road, Hampstead, London NW3 6AE, ages 2–13 years, co-educational

Founded in 1989, Devonshire House Preparatory School offers a nurturing environment that balances academic excellence with personal development. The school is divided into four age groups, ensuring tailored education for each stage of a child’s growth. Housed in charming Victorian buildings, the school provides modern facilities and a broad curriculum. Devonshire House prepares students for entry into leading senior schools, with many alumni progressing to prestigious institutions.