Hampstead Walk 1 – Village, Artists and Hidden History

Hampstead is one of the highest points in London and, from the 17th century onwards, became a welcome escape from the overcrowding, pollution and diseases of central London. Its springs soon gave it a reputation as a spa, and over the centuries Hampstead attracted wealthy residents, writers, artists and musicians.

Despite being so close to central London, it has retained a remarkably strong village atmosphere.

On this first Hampstead walk, we make our way uphill from Hampstead Tube Station towards Wyldes Farm, discovering some of the area's fascinating history along the way.

We begin with Oriel Place, where an unusual apartment block was originally built as housing for the poor, before continuing to Church Row, one of Hampstead's best-preserved Georgian streets.