Hampstead to Belsize Park – 25 October

Travel: meet at 10.15am at Hampstead tube station (Northern Line, Edgware branch). [Early drop-out points possible from Golders Hill Park – bus 268 to Hampstead tube station or bus 210 to either Golders Green or Archway stations (both Northern Line); the 210 also stops near Kenwood House for a later drop-out option]. Return either from Southend Green or complete walk to Belsize Park Tube station (Northern Line or buses). [At Southend Green, overground trains from Hampstead Heath station or buses 24, 1 and C11].

The Walk – total walk – 8 miles. From Hampstead tube station the walk takes us to The Hill Gardens (if open we’ll go up to the top of the Pergola); Golders Hill Park; Heath extension; Kenwood; Hampstead Ponds; Parliament Hill (view point), finishing at Belsize Park via Southend Green.

Conditions – although mainly flat terrain there are several undulating sections and the morning has numerous steps, some in the wood and the Pergola has spiral metal and stone steps – good news, there are no stiles.

Hazards – With rain during this week some paths might have turned muddy/slippery, so sturdy footwear, please. Also watch out for tree roots sticking out, often hidden underneath fallen leaves.

Lunch – early lunch in Golders Hill Park (preferably picnic). The Café serves hot and cold food. (NB: only food purchased at the café can be eaten inside and at their tables outside). There are benches nearby for picnickers.

Other refreshment options: Kenwood will be hosting Halloween events over the weekend; I expect it to be very busy with families. We’ll stop only briefly for a water stop and to use their facilities before venturing forth. Before finishing the walk, I am including a stop for refreshments at the Parliament Hill Café (at around 3pm or a little earlier). Barbara L is planning to meet us there. For anyone wishing to continue without a tea break I can give easy directions to finish walk.

Happy walking! Sigrid