My husband, David, and I recently moved to London due to a job transfer. The rushed nature of our move meant we had little time to familiarize ourselves with the city or its neighborhoods prior to relocating here. Since moving in, however, we've come to realize that we've (pretty inadvertently) settled into a much sought-after area. After several weeks here, we can see what all the fuss is about.

Hampstead, a village in the northwest London borough of Camden, is a truly unique hamlet resplendent with history, nature, and some excellent pints.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dnHCvkEpfDc

Our video tour of Hampstead

What we've loved about living here so far:

1.Hampstead is home to more "notable people" plaques than any other part of London. This tree-lined quarter has housed famous folks throughout history—Sigmund Freud, John Keats, Elizabeth Taylor, and H.G. Wells, just to name a few. Lesser-known poets, architects, and even famous physicians can also be found Hampstead's many blue plaques. Cinephiles might also recognize the area as the adopted home of P.L. Travers, Australian author of the Mary Poppins series.

2. A village in the city. Despite being located in a bustling city of over 8 million, walking through Hampstead's narrow cobblestoned walks, you'd never know it. With all the conveniences of city life, Hampstead (still referred to as "Hampstead Village") is full of charming residential streets, a High Street dominated by small local businesses, and no skyscrapers or high-rises.

3. The park of all parks. As a former San Franciscan, I have grown begrudgingly accustomed to minimal green space in my city. Moving to Hampstead and discovering that the small village is home to a massive expanse of wild-looking green space. Take a stroll through the Heath on any given afternoon and you'll be transported to the English countryside of your Downton Abbey-esque dreams. All whilst remaining six miles from central London! Home to many species of wildlife and popular with London's canine community, it's a great place to get your nature on. Its peak is also a great place to overlook the London skyline. Hampstead Heath is truly the huge shining emerald in Hampstead's crown. Did we mention it's huge?

4. Pubs, pubs, and more pubs. Anyone looking for a pint (or Sunday roast) in northwest London need look no further than Hampstead. The village offers a wide selection of pubs, each with its own unique sense of character. Notable picks include the Holly Bush (a quaint but popular 18th century find), the Spaniards Inn (dating to 1585 and mentioned by one Charles Dickens in his Pickwick Papers), and many others. Not only are Hampstead's pubs a great place to grab an after-work drink or a Sunday lunch, many are also dog-friendly making them wonderful places to stop after a walk through the Heath.

5. Architecture from yesteryear. Most people coming to Europe intend to experience the rich historical backdrop of the "Old World." Nowhere in London is the city's former way of life more visible today than in Hampstead. Get off the village's high street and roam its narrow alleys and climb cobblestoned staircases. You'll feast your eyes on a smorgasbord of exquisite Georgian and Victorian homes all tucked neatly into roads so narrow that they were clearly built before the advent of the automobile.

In just three short weeks we've already fallen in love with Hampstead and we know you will too!

Have any cool facts to share about Hampstead? Leave your comments below!

Posted 
Jan 22, 2019
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