Hampstead Heath – The Hampstead Circular Hike

Skyline viewpoints, swimming ponds, and stately Kenwood house

Route Overview

This circular walk explores the wild green expanses of Hampstead Heath. Starting at Hampstead Tube Station, you walk past historic Georgian houses to enter the Heath. You'll climb Parliament Hill for one of London's best-protected views, skirt past the famous bathing ponds, walk through Kenwood House gardens, and return via the atmospheric Vale of Health.

Travel & Getting There from London Victoria

By Train: Take the Victoria Line from Victoria to Warren Street, transfer to the Northern Line (Edgware branch) northbound directly to Hampstead Station. (Station: Hampstead Station (Northern Line), duration: 25 - 35 mins (via Northern Line from Victoria)).

By Bus: Take TfL Bus 38 or 24 from London Victoria through the West End directly to Hampstead Heath / South End Green. (40 - 50 mins from London Victoria)

By Car & Parking: Nearest car park is East Heath Car Park, Hampstead (NW3 1TH). Drive time from London Victoria is approx 30 - 45 mins from London Victoria (6.2 miles via Park Lane, Baker St & A41 Finchley Road). From London Victoria, drive north via Park Lane (A4202), continue onto Baker Street and follow the A41 Finchley Road northbound. Turn right onto East Heath Road to reach the car park.

Trailside Cafes & Historic Country Pubs

Refreshment and dining stops located along or near the Hampstead Heath – The Hampstead Circular Hike trail:

• ☕ The Holly Bush: Traditional pub and refreshment stop for walkers.
• ☕ Kenwood Brew House Cafe: Traditional pub and refreshment stop for walkers.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I travel to Hampstead Heath – The Hampstead Circular Hike from London?

Take the Victoria Line from Victoria to Warren Street, transfer to the Northern Line (Edgware branch) northbound directly to Hampstead Station. (Station: Hampstead Station (Northern Line), duration: 25 - 35 mins (via Northern Line from Victoria)).

Where is the closest car park for Hampstead Heath – The Hampstead Circular Hike?

Nearest car park is East Heath Car Park, Hampstead (NW3 1TH). Drive time from London Victoria is approx 30 - 45 mins from London Victoria (6.2 miles via Park Lane, Baker St & A41 Finchley Road). From London Victoria, drive north via Park Lane (A4202), continue onto Baker Street and follow the A41 Finchley Road northbound. Turn right onto East Heath Road to reach the car park.

How long is the hike and what is the terrain difficulty?

Hampstead Heath – The Hampstead Circular Hike covers 8 km (5 miles) with an estimated duration of 2 hours, graded as Easy. Starts at Hampstead Tube Station and finishes at Hampstead Tube Station.