This neighbourhood area is in the London Borough of Camden and is known as South Hampstead. The architecture in the area is almost exclusively Edwardian and Victorian three storey red brick houses with tree lined streets, giving the neighbourhood a homogenous look. To preserve this historical architecture and to ensure the natural surroundings of the neighbourhood remain intact, the neighbourhood has been deemed a conservation area. The area is almost entirely residential in nature and due to the lack of direct routes through the neighbourhood, it is very quiet, allowing residents to enjoy minimal traffic congestion. The neighbourhood has a Waitrose close by and only a few local restaurants as well as a popular independent bakery, Lanka, in the immediate area. All of this contributes to the quiet and calm of the neighbourhood.

In the 1700s and 1800s, what is now known as the South Hampstead Conservation Area, was open on unspoiled countryside fields. The then landowner, Sir Thomas Maryon Wilson, had decreed in his will that his heir should ensure the land remained undeveloped. It remained open and public land until that heir died in 1869. After that, suburbanisation of the area began. However, Spencer Maryon Wilson, Sir Thomas’s great-grandson, carried out a meticulous development plan as he wanted the area to retain its character and charm. Because of his careful planning and the late start for development in the area, the neighbourhood is still a well-defined entity with homogenous character and architecture.

Martina Bergman Osterberg lived and worked in this neighbourhood. Osterberg founded the first physical education instructor’s college in England, to which she admitted only women. She also pioneered teaching physical education as a full subject within the English school curriculum and supported women’s emancipation movements.

Unfortunately, theft is the highest reported crime in this area. Additionally, property prices in the area can be a bit costly, as it is a fashionable and well-maintained neighbourhood. However, it is more affordable than the neighbouring Belsize Park and Hampstead.

Construction in South Hampstead has gained a lot of momentum. Goldhurst Terrace, a nearly completed development located only a 3-minute walk away from South Hampstead station, offers 11 1-, 2- and 3-bedroom mansion block apartments in a four-storey red brick building. The building replaces a now demolished set of Victorian terraced houses. Abbey Road Cross is another new development in the neighbourhood offering 75 one, two and three bedroom apartments, with concierge services. new community and health facilities, and improved open and play spaces. Additionally, residents of this neighbourhood should expect to see continual minor developments, upkeep to properties, and refurbishments in the area in the coming years. The community is very involved and active in this area - they even have an online forum to discuss future developments!