This neighbourhood is a charming Victorian influenced slice of Hampstead that runs from the hilly viewpoints of the Heath and trickles down towards Swiss Cottage. It’s an area that seems to have everything at its door step; the well-stocked high streets of both Finchley Road and Heath Street, acres of greenery, and restful residential streets. Also home to many of the area’s best schools and reliable transport links, this part of Hampstead is easily one of most appealing and enchanting parts of North London.

Hampstead has been on the map since the Mesolithic period, around 9000 years ago. One of its earliest existing buildings Hampstead Parish Church, which originates all the way back to 986 AD, and is amazingly still standing today. As the area steamed into Victorian era, the neighbourhood established its residential character and civic amenities. However, it seems it’s always been a place where the rich and famous have flocked. Aristocratic Lady Binning purchased 17th century home Fenton House in 1939 and filled it with rare art, ornaments, instruments and flora. The house is open to the public today and its panoramic views of the city make it one of London’s best-kept secret gems.

An interesting man who lived in this area was none other than Sir Harold Delf Gillies – the father of modern plastic surgery. He lived in 71 Frognal Road, to be precise. He was a pioneer of facial reconstruction and treated two thousand jaw and face injuries from the Battle of the Somme alone.

Hampstead gets a shout out on British rock bank Jethro Tull’s song Mother Goose, from the 1971 Aqualung album. The exact lyric goes “As I did walk by Hampstead Fair I came upon Mother Goose – so I turned her loose”.

The West Heath of Hampstead Heath is also an iconic cruising spot. Interestingly, the littering of non-biodegradable contraceptives has caused a rift between local eco-warriors and the heath’s more risqué visitors.

The key concern that long-standing residents have in this neighbourhood is the risk of overdevelopment. The area has an undeniable essence due to its rich history that many are concerned could be threatened by the boom in development around London. However, this issue is complicated by the demand for housing and the sometimes eye-ball popping house prices of the locale. What’s clear is that these concerns stem from a strong love of the local community by its residents and visitors.

Cycling infrastructure has been improved over the past 5 years. However, Camden council’s pledge to protect and conserve the distinct character of the area and the strong resilience of the community against overdevelopment means that much of the area is unlikely to undergo any vast developments in the near future.