We love our neighbourhood and feel privileged to be based in Hampstead, but as beautiful and picturesque as it is, there are many great spots close by and one just down the road from us - Belsize Park - is quite unknown, rather underrated and, in our opinion, well worth checking out.

With its own underground station (on the northern line, just one stop from Hampstead) Belsize Park’s name is derived from the French ‘Bel Assis’ (meaning ‘well situated) and that’s very true, because it’s close to so many attractions - Hampstead Heath, Primrose Hill and Camden Market being just three places in north London that are just fantastic!

It’s also green, leafy and full of quaint pubs and restaurants, which is why lots of celebs (including Helena Bonham-Carter and Hugh Laurie) choose to live here.

Let’s take a closer look at this lesser-known London neighbourhood and why it’s really worth exploring…

 

History of the area

Belsize Park dates back hundreds of years, actually to 317 when - as the Manor of Belsize - it was given to catholic monks at Westminster Abbey. The ‘manor’ was actually several farms, all of which were rented out. However, it was only in the 17th century that Belsize House was built, in restoration style, and a century or so later opened as a pleasure garden (where visitors could fish, hunt and even dance).

Belsize Park was further developed in Victorian times - mansions and villas sprung up on the west side of Haverstock Hill, as well as villas in the classical ‘John Nash’ school being built. You can still see the lavish porticos and stucco today, all of which were very popular with the middle classes.

Today, many of these properties have been restored but because they are so costly, a fair few have been converted into flats. Even today, with more blocks of flats being built, the streets are a joy to walk.

 

Architecture

Belsize Park has some truly lovely buildings on its leafy streets - whether they’re tiny mews, Victorian stucco-fronted terraces, Georgian gems or Queen Anne-style houses, you’ll sigh with delight as you wander the area. The elegance and charm are so easy to enjoy - of course, there’s a price tag involved if you fall in love with a place, because this is one of the most expensive parts of north London in which to buy a home.

 

Places in the ‘Hood

  • The Freud Museum - the father of psychoanalysis, this was where Sigmund Freud made his home after being forced out of Austria by the Nazis. The house is a treasure trove, filled with his books, statues and even the weaving loom of his daughter. Book tickets here.
  • The Isokon Gallery - this small gallery tells the unusual story of the Isokon building, which was a pioneering architectural feat of its day (this modern Bauhaus-style block opened in 1934).
  • Daleham Mews - one of the prettiest streets in the neighbourhood, there’s a reason mews houses are so sought after - they’re an oasis of tranquility in a city that’s full of hustle and bustle.
  • Belsize Village - the hub of the area, stroll the streets and get a feel for this special little community, where locals all know each other and regular events throughout the year (carol singing, summer fetes, etc) make you feel like you’re part of something wider than yourself! (This can be a great feeling in a city as huge as London).

Spots to Eat and Drink

  • The George Pub -friendly staff, a warm and inviting atmosphere and tasty food make this pub the perfect place to come both for a quick drink or a hearty meal. The George serves outstanding Sunday roasts, have an excellent beer and cider selection and are dog-friendly!
  • Olivers - this fantastic fish and chips joint serves up perfectly-battered fish, chunky chips and homemade tartar sauce and has gained a reputation over the years for being the spot to visit if you’re hankering after this classic British fare. Order the cod and you won’t be disappointed.
  • Jamon Jamon - classic tapas, steaming hot paella and jugs of Sangria make this Spanish spot a fantastic place to grab a bite, especially if you like sharing plates!
  • Terra Moderna - a restaurant that offers a fusion of modern Italian and Antipodean cuisine - think seafood combined with tagliatelle, ravioli and risotto. Oh, and their mango and passionfruit pavlova is to die for…
  • Englands Lane - this cute little coffee shop is the perfect place to come for brunch - think bagels, brioche, avocado toast, delicious pastries and well-brewed coffee. The Red Velvet cake is a winner.


Nearby Attractions

The marvellous thing about London is that it’s wonderful for walkers and once you’re in Belsize Park, there’s plenty more just a 20-minute walk away.
Primrose Hill - these elegant streets are filled with beautiful-coloured houses, magnificent squares and a beautiful park (and if you climb the steep hill you’ll be rewarded with astounding views of the London skyline). Whether you want to eat, drink or wander, there’s a reason bloggers like to Instagram these streets!

  • Hampstead - what’s not to like about our gorgeous neighbourhood? With a charming village, tiny backstreets, and the fabulous Heath (London’s ‘Green Lung’) on our doorstep, there’s a reason everyone wants to live in Hampstead…
  • South End Green - Bacing directly onto Hampstead Heath, South End Green is the perfect place to go for a walk year-round, browse the independent stores afterwards and stop for coffee and cake in one of the area’s lovely cafes.
  • Camden Market - one of London’s best-known attractions, this enormous street market has something for everyone - whether you’re looking for vintage treasures, handmade jewellery, old prints or wow-factor fluorescent clothing at ‘Cyber Dog’ boutique. A wide variety of food stalls and the nearby Regent;’s Canal make this a fine place to spend a few hours.

Finally, if you’re coming to London and looking for accommodation, why not consider staying at La Gaffe Hotel Hampstead?  Our comfortable guest accommodation is competitively-priced, we’re family-run and owned ( so you’re assured of a warm and personal welcome) and our rates include VAT and a continental breakfast (complete with our famous cappuccino).  

We’re just three minutes walk from Hampstead tube and then it’s a quick trip (around 15-20 minutes) into the city centre by underground.  And our neighbourhood is so charming, many people never want to leave it!  

To find out more about us, give us a call on 0207 435-8965 or book directly with us (for the best rates!) on our website.