Last Updated on 23 June, 2023
North London is a diverse and vibrant region filled with a plethora of attractions, historic landmarks, and charming neighbourhoods. From picturesque parks to iconic landmarks, there is something for everyone in this bustling part of the city.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or a foodie seeking culinary delights, love markets, North London has it all. Let’s first delve into the notable areas of North London and explore the top things to do in this captivating part of the city.
Notable Neighbourhoods And Areas Of North London
If you are looking to explore more of North London, looking to move to North London, or are planning a trip to London and looking to venture out of central London then this is the perfect post to introduce you to this side of London.
This part of London also offers amazing neighbourhoods for those that want to broaden the areas to stay when visiting London.
Hampstead
Nestled amidst lush greenery, Hampstead is a charming neighbourhood known for its literary and artistic heritage. Explore the quaint streets lined with Georgian houses, meadows, woodland, and swimming ponds, visit Hampstead Heath for breathtaking views of the city skyline, and immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural scene of this area.
Islington
Islington is a vibrant and culturally diverse neighbourhood brimming with history and entertainment options. Visit the vibrant Upper Street for its theaters, restaurants, and shops, or explore the picturesque Regent’s Canal with its charming towpaths. Further up Islington’s Holloway Road is also where you will find the famous Emirates Stadium with even more fun, pubs, bars and restaurants to check out.
Highgate
Highgate is famous for its historic Highgate Cemetery, the final resting place of notable figures like Karl Marx and George Eliot. Take a stroll through the atmospheric graveyard and appreciate its Gothic architecture. Additionally, explore the idyllic Waterlow Park and enjoy panoramic views from Highgate Hill.
Belsize Park
Belsize Park is a trendy and affluent area with an abundance of boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants. Spend an afternoon indulging in retail therapy, savoring delectable cuisine, or simply soaking up the vibrant atmosphere of this fashionable neighbourhood.
Crouch End
Crouch End is a charming and bohemian neighbourhood that exudes a relaxed and creative ambiance. Discover the independent boutiques, cozy cafes, and vintage shops that line the streets. Enjoy a leisurely walk in Alexandra Park and take in the stunning city views.
Primrose Hill
Primrose Hill is famous for its beautiful and colourful London Streets. For stunning panoramic views of London, head to Primrose Hill.
This picturesque park offers a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle. Pack a picnic, relax on the grassy slopes, and relish the breathtaking scenery before your eyes.
St John’s Wood
St John’s Wood is an affluent and residential area famous for its proximity to Lord’s Cricket Ground. Take a leisurely stroll along the tree-lined streets, grab some brunch, visit the iconic Abbey Road Studios, and explore the charming cafes and boutiques.
Tufnell Park
Tufnell Park is a residential area known for its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful Victorian architecture. Visit the quirky Kentish Town City Farm, enjoy a walk in the peaceful Tufnell Park Playing Fields, or explore the vibrant local pubs and eateries.
Hampstead Garden Suburb
Hampstead Garden Suburb is a leafy and picturesque area characterized by its beautiful architecture and tranquil green spaces. Take a leisurely walk through Hampstead Heath Extension or visit Fenton House, a 17th-century merchant’s house surrounded by a stunning garden. You can read more about the beautiful stately house in London worth a visit.
Golders Green
Golders Green is a culturally diverse neighbourhood that boasts a vibrant Jewish community. Visit Golders Hill Park with its tranquil ponds and animal enclosures, or explore the captivating exhibits at the Jewish Museum London.
Camden
Camden is a vibrant and eclectic neighbourhood renowned for its alternative music scene and bustling markets. Explore Camden Market, the most famous of North London Markets, where you’ll find an array of unique stalls selling fashion, crafts, and international cuisine. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and discover hidden gems.
Muswell Hill
Muswell Hill is a leafy suburb offering stunning views of the city from Alexandra Palace. Discover the independent shops, cafes, and restaurants along Muswell Hill Broadway, or enjoy a leisurely walk in Alexandra Park.
West Hampstead
West Hampstead offers a delightful mix of residential charm and bustling activity. Explore West End Lane’s independent shops, dine at the diverse range of restaurants, and catch a performance at the intimate Tricycle Theatre.
Finchley
Finchley offers a mix of suburban tranquility and vibrant cultural attractions. Explore arts and culture at the artsdepot, visit the ancient Avenue House Estate, or embark on a peaceful walk through the lush Dollis Valley Greenwalk.
Kentish Town
Kentish Town is a lively and diverse neighbourhood with a rich musical heritage. Enjoy live music at the iconic Kentish Town Forum, browse through vintage treasures at the Camden Passage Antique Market, or unwind in the charming pubs and cafes.
Things To Do In North London
Now that we’ve explored the notable areas of North London, let’s dive into the top attractions and activities that await you in this captivating region.
British Library
Visit the iconic British Library, home to an extensive collection of books, manuscripts, and historical documents. Marvel at treasures such as the Magna Carta and the original Beatles lyrics, and immerse yourself in the rich literary history housed within this architectural marvel.
Visit Forty Hall Estate
Step back in time at Forty Hall Estate, a magnificent Jacobean manor house surrounded by stunning gardens and parkland. Explore the historic interiors, take leisurely walks in the estate’s grounds, and immerse yourself in the rich heritage of this hidden gem.
Alexandra Palace
Enjoy panoramic views of London from Alexandra Palace, a historic entertainment venue and park. Attend concerts, exhibitions, or ice skating events, or simply unwind and picnic in the vast parkland surrounding the palace.
Keats House
Another London manor house worth visiting. Step into the world of Romantic poetry at Keats House, the former residence of poet John Keats. Delve into the life and works of Keats, explore the tranquil gardens, and attend literary events and exhibitions.
St Pancras Station and Hotel
Explore the grandeur of St Pancras Station, a Victorian masterpiece renowned for its Gothic Revival architecture. Admire the stunning interior, featuring the famous Meeting Place statue, and indulge in a luxurious afternoon tea at the adjacent St Pancras Renaissance Hotel. While you are here be sure to also grab a drink in the Booking Office bar and be transported to a bygone era.
Shopping at Coal Drops
Discover Coal Drops Yard, a vibrant shopping destination located in a renovated Victorian coal warehouse. Browse through an eclectic mix of independent boutiques, flagship stores, and designer outlets, and immerse yourself in the creative atmosphere of this unique retail space. This is among a list of fun places to visit in Kings Cross.
Regent’s Park
Escape the urban hustle in North London and retreat to the picturesque Regent’s Park. Stroll through its beautifully landscaped gardens, visit the London Zoo located within its grounds, or enjoy a leisurely boat ride on the serene lake.
Madame Tussauds
Rub shoulders with your favorite celebrities at Madame Tussauds, where lifelike wax figures await your arrival. Take memorable photos with stars from the worlds of film, music, and sports, and immerse yourself in interactive exhibits that bring history to life.
Explore Camden
Among things to do in North London is to indulge in the vibrant energy of Camden, known for its alternative culture, live music venues, and bustling markets. Discover unique fashion, vintage treasures, and delicious street food at Camden Market, and explore the nearby Camden Lock and Regent’s Canal. We have covered in more detail all the cool and fun things to do in Camden.
Take a Harry Potter Tour at Warner Bros. Studios
Embark on a magical journey through the world of Harry Potter at Warner Bros. Studios. Explore the actual sets, props, and costumes used in the films, and get an up-close look at the iconic Hogwarts Castle. You can book in advance for the Harry Potter at Warner Bros. Studios tour here.
Stroll Around Canals of Little Venice
When it comes to things to do in North London, this is such a hidden gem. Discover the enchanting canals of Little Venice, where picturesque narrowboats line the waterways. Take a leisurely stroll along the towpaths, enjoy a canal boat ride, or relax in one of the charming waterside cafes.
Walk Around Epping Forest
Escape the city and immerse yourself in nature with a walk around Epping Forest. This ancient woodland offers tranquil paths, diverse wildlife, and a serene ambiance, providing a refreshing retreat from the urban hustle.
Primrose Hill
Climb to the top of Primrose Hill and be rewarded with breathtaking views of the London skyline. This tranquil park offers the perfect spot for a picnic, a leisurely walk, or simply taking in the beauty of the cityscape.
Visit Hampstead Heath
Experience the natural beauty of Hampstead Heath, an expansive green oasis in the heart of North London. Take a refreshing swim in the open-air swimming ponds, enjoy a picnic on Parliament Hill, or explore the lush woodlands and meadows.
BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir
Immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere of the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, a stunning Hindu temple in Neasden. Admire the intricate architecture, participate in religious ceremonies, and learn about the rich Hindu heritage.
See a Match at Wembley Stadium
Experience the thrill of live sports by watching a match at Wembley Stadium, the iconic home of English football. Join the passionate crowd, cheer for your favorite team, and soak in the electric atmosphere of this legendary venue.
Explore Highgate Cemetery
Discover the atmospheric Highgate Cemetery, known for its Gothic tombs and captivating Victorian funerary architecture. Take a guided tour to learn about the famous figures buried here, including Karl Marx and George Eliot, and explore the serene East and West Cemeteries.
Visit Kenwood House
Immerse yourself in art and culture at Kenwood House, a neoclassical villa set in the serene Hampstead Heath. Admire the impressive art collection, including works by Rembrandt and Vermeer, and explore the beautifully landscaped gardens. This is among a list of beautiful stately homes in London you should visit.
Visit London Zoo
Embark on a wildlife adventure at London Zoo, located in the picturesque Regent’s Park. Encounter a diverse range of animals, from majestic lions to playful penguins, and participate in educational talks and interactive exhibits.
Gasholder Park
Discover Gasholder Park, a unique public park located within the historic gasholder guide frames of King’s Cross. Marvel at the innovative design, enjoy the tranquil green space, and learn about the industrial heritage of the area.
London Canal Museum
Learn about the fascinating history of London’s canals at the London Canal Museum. Explore interactive exhibits, discover the stories of the waterways, and take a boat trip to experience the unique canal network firsthand. You can also book a cool canal boat tour with the museum. It also comes with the option of afternoon tea.
Jewish Museum London
Discover the vibrant Jewish heritage at the Jewish Museum London. Explore the diverse collection of artifacts, learn about Jewish history, culture, and traditions, and engage in interactive exhibits and events.
Enjoy Turkish Food on Green Lanes
Satisfy your taste buds with a culinary journey along Green Lanes, known for its vibrant Turkish and Kurdish cuisine. Indulge in mouthwatering kebabs, baklava, and traditional mezes, and experience the warm hospitality of the local restaurants.
Abbey Road
Pay homage to music history by visiting Abbey Road, the famous street known for the iconic Beatles’ album cover. Pose for your own photo on the zebra crossing, visit the legendary Abbey Road Studios, and soak in the nostalgia of this musical landmark.
The Wellcome Collection
Expand your knowledge at The Wellcome Collection, a museum exploring the connections between medicine, life, and art. Engage with thought-provoking exhibits, attend talks and workshops, and delve into the intersection of science and society.
The Best Tours in North London
Looking for guided experiences to enhance your exploration of North London? Here are some of the best tours to consider:
- Historic Pub Tour: Immerse yourself in the local pub culture and history with a guided pub crawl tour that takes you to the most historic and charming pubs in North London.
- Street Art Tour: Discover the vibrant street art scene of North London with a guided tour that showcases the impressive murals and graffiti in neighbourhoods like Camden and Shoreditch.
- Literary Tour: Follow in the footsteps of literary giants like Charles Dickens and Virginia Woolf with a tour that explores the literary heritage of North London, visiting iconic locations and literary landmarks.
- Hidden Gardens Tour: Uncover the hidden green spaces and secret gardens of North London with a guided tour that takes you off the beaten path, showcasing the tranquil oases nestled within the urban landscape.
- Foodie Tour: Embark on a culinary adventure through North London’s diverse food scene, sampling delicious treats and learning about the multicultural influences that shape the area’s gastronomy.
No matter which tour you choose, each offers a unique perspective and a deeper understanding of the rich history, culture, and charm of North London.
North London is a vibrant and diverse region that captivates visitors with its eclectic neighbourhoods, iconic landmarks, and an array of attractions.
Whether you’re exploring the historic streets of Hampstead, immersing yourself in the cultural melting pot of Camden, or enjoying the tranquility of Hampstead Heath, North London offers a multitude of experiences for every taste.
From historic sites and picturesque parks to culinary delights and artistic treasures, there is no shortage of things to do and see in this captivating part of the city.
So, plan your visit to North London and embark on a journey of discovery, immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere, rich heritage, and hidden gems that await at every corner.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. Is North London safe for tourists?
Yes, North London is generally safe for tourists. However, it’s always advisable to take standard precautions and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night.
2. Are there any free attractions in North London?
Yes, there are several free attractions in North London, including the parks like Hampstead Heath and Regent’s Park, as well as museums like the British Library and the Wellcome Collection.
3. Can I visit the attractions mentioned in this article all in one day?
Visiting all the attractions mentioned in one day may be challenging due to their geographical spread. It’s recommended to plan your itinerary and prioritize the places that interest you the most.
4. Are the tours mentioned in the article suitable for families with children?
Yes, many of the tours mentioned are suitable for families with children. However, it’s advisable to check the tour details and age restrictions before booking.
5. How can I get around North London?
North London has excellent public transportation, including buses, underground trains, and overground trains. You can also use taxis or hire bikes for shorter distances. Plan your routes using Transport for London (TFL) resources or mobile apps for real-time information.