We’re glad to say that Hampstead’s slowly coming back to life after a long period of uncertainty. And not just local businesses either - there are plenty of events in the neighbourhood to suit all tastes - from strolling in parks, to picking up a pencil or attending the theatre.
It’s important to get out and about, and never more so than now, so below are some of our recommendations for when you have a few hours free and you want to enjoy yourself. Go ahead - have some fun!
Guided Walk of Hampstead Heath
‘Heath Hands’ is offering a free guided walk of Hampstaead Heath on October 27th at 2pm - a great opportunity to learn more about the flora and fauna of the area. And Autumn walks are perfect for brushing off the cobwebs too! To reserve a place, just drop them a line.
Bird Watching
The Marylebone Birdwatching Society offers informal walks, most Tuesdays, weather permitting. Meet at the Parliament Hill cafe at 10am, and start hunting for species around the area, before an optional coffee or lunch at Kenwood House with other wannabee ornithologists. For more information, give them a call on 0207 267 8434.
Exploring Keats House
Until the end of October, it’s possible to pre-book a one-hour visit to Keats House, located just off Devonshire Hill and close to the Heath, to look around the beautiful Regency home of the poet, as well as the lovely gardens. This is where Keats found friendship, inspiration and love and for the entrance fee of £7.50, you can see it all for yourself.
Life Drawing
If you fancy learning life drawing, there are pop-in sessions at the Hampstead Community Centre, close to Hampstead tube, twice a week. All levels are welcome and there’s no need to book, just show up. Sessions are on Wednesdays from 7pm to 9pm and Fridays at 12.30 pm to 2.30pm. The cost is just £10 per session.
The Hampstead Theatre
If you’re desperate for a trip to theatre, after lockdown, then we’ve good news - the Hampstead Theatre is open again. One production we’d recommend attending is the Broadway hit “Night, mother” by Marsha Norman. Starring Stockard Channing (Grease, the West Wing and Six Degrees of Separation) and Rebecca Night (who’s performed here before) it’s opening on 22nd October and running through the first week of December. For more information and to book tickets, get in touch with them.
The Hampstead Jazz Club
In conjunction with Pizza Express Live, the Hampstead Jazz Club is holding a jazz evening in Holborn, starring Sabrina Francis. A singer and songwriter from Grenada, she’s inspired by soul and traditional African styles. Tickets cost 20 and you can book online. And for more about HJC, take a look at their Instagram page.
Dinner at La Gaffe
Finally, we’d be remiss if we didn’t mention that we’ve recently revamped our menu, giving locals and new visitors alike the chance to try some of our old and new Italian dishes. We’re open every evening, from 6pm onwards and whether you’re in the mood for something light in our Wine Bar, or a proper sit-down meal in our restaurant, we’d be delighted to see you. Call ahead to book a table and let us know if you have any particularly dietary requirements. We can’t wait to see you...
And of course, if you need a place to stay in Hampstead, our clean, warm and friendly Hampstead B&B is the perfect spot from which to explore Hampstead, the Heath and London.