Hampstead Heath and Parliament Hill

Wild heathland, swimming ponds and the classic skyline view from Parliament Hill.

The Heath feels like countryside twenty minutes from the centre: woods, meadows, the bathing ponds and the lido. Parliament Hill is the view everyone comes for, and it is best in the hour before sunset. Wear real shoes after rain; the paths get muddy.

When it works

Outdoors: pick a dry day. Best morning, afternoon, evening.

Good for kids, dogs, a date, sunset and locals' favourite.

On these lists

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Opening hours and prices change; the official site has the current ones. See everything in London ranked for right now.