The idea that you might find a large country home with extensive gardens as seen on so many BBC period drama’s within the bounds of London might seem rather a fantasy, but visitors to Kenwood House on the edge of Hampstead Heath can indeed find this idylic tranquillity.
The 18th century mansion that is Kenwood House sits in one corner of the heath and attracts around a million visitors a year to the gardens, and 100,000 visitors into the house itself.
Kenwood House and gardens have been remodelled many times by the various owners, until it was finally donated into public ownership by Lord Iveagh, a member of the Guiness brewing family, in 1929. Today the upkeep is managed by English Heritage.
The house and gardens have been used in a number of films, and those familiar with the film will no doubt recognise the backdrop from the garden scenes in Notting Hill.
If you want a relaxing location while in London, but don’t want to venture too far, why not try Kenwood House and enjoy the swans sailing around the lake and wander by the Henry Moore sculptures.
English Heritage page about Kenwood House.
Other links:
Hotels around Hampstead
Tourist attractions in Hampstead
