It was a sunny day, and I was out and about exploring Highgate, one of North London’s most historic and greenest neighbourhoods. First on my list was a visit to Lauderdale House and Waterlow Park, set in the heart of Highgate Hill, London N6. This peaceful, sloping park spans 26 acres and is full of character, featuring ponds, sweeping lawns, formal gardens, a kitchen garden, a playground, tennis courts, and even a bowls green. It borders the famous Highgate Cemetery and offers one of the most scenic green spaces in the borough of Camden. If you’re looking for the best parks in North London or cafés on Highgate Hill, you’ll love visiting Lauderdale House and Waterlow Park.
Breakfast At Lauderdale House
I began my morning with breakfast at Lauderdale House, a historic house which is now an arts and community centre set within Waterlow Park. Initially built in 1582 as a Tudor country house, the property was later owned by the Earl of Lauderdale and visited by notable figures, including Nell Gwyn and Charles II.
After some consideration, I ordered the smashed avocado on sourdough toast served topped with feta, tomatoes, and a drizzle of balsamic. I savoured my breakfast as I sat outside on a picnic bench overlooking the lawn, which was a lovely way to start the day. The café is open from 9 am until 5 pm during the week, and on weekends, it opens at 9.30 am. For full information about the café menu, opening times, and events, please visit the Lauderdale House website.
Waterlow Park Highlights
After finishing breakfast, I wandered into Waterlow Park to take in the surroundings. This beautiful green space was donated to the public in 1889 by Sir Sydney Waterlow, whose presence is still felt through a bronze statue along one of the main walkways. It’s a lasting gift—“a garden for the gardenless.” The sculpture, created by Frank Taubman, depicts Waterlow holding a hat, an umbrella, and a symbolic key, representing the generous handover of this land for everyone to enjoy.
The park is beautifully maintained and full of thoughtful details, from vibrant flower beds and a rose garden to a sensory garden, terrace garden, lime tree avenue, and pops of wildflowers that bring bursts of colour to the landscape.
As you follow the winding paths, you’ll come across steps flanked by statues, a fountain, a sundial, and other elegant features.
Pause for a moment and, if you find the right spot, you’ll be treated to sweeping views across London, including a glimpse of St Paul’s Cathedral on the horizon.
My first stop was the Kitchen Garden, a quiet, slightly hidden corner that feels wonderfully cared for. Raised beds overflow with herbs, vegetables, and flowering plants, all lovingly maintained by local volunteers. Bees flit between lavender and marigolds, and there’s a calm, meditative rhythm to the space. It’s not large, but it’s full of charm, and benches are available should you wish to linger for longer.
Waterlow Park is made for wandering. I strolled past its three ponds, all fed by natural spring water. For a moment of mindfulness, I paused to watch ducks glide through the water and listened to the reeds rustling gently in the breeze. Tall trees shade one pond, and another is bordered by open lawns.
A bowls green nestles quietly near one end of the park, and there are tennis courts too, free to use and popular with locals.
When you need a rest, Waterlow Park offers numerous places to sit, including some sheltered seating areas. It’s also a quiet spot to remember George Michael by sitting on his commemorative bench.
LUX is based at the Waterlow Park Centre. It’s the UK’s leading agency for artists working with moving images, supporting experimental film and video through screenings, exhibitions, and an extensive archive.
Dartmouth Park Lodge is a characterful gatehouse set at the edge of Waterlow Park on Dartmouth Park Hill. Built in the 19th century, it originally served as one of the estate’s entrances before the land was gifted to the public. When Waterlow Park officially opened in 1891, the lodge became part of the park’s fabric. Today, it remains a distinctive feature of the landscape. It’s privately let to tenants, with the rental income helping support the upkeep of the park. Lucky tenants!
Dartmouth Park Lodge is right next to the entrance to Highgate Cemetery, one of London’s most atmospheric and historic burial grounds. Opened in 1839, it’s the final resting place of figures like Karl Marx, George Eliot, and Lucian Freud. Split into East and West sections, the cemetery offers a unique glimpse into Victorian attitudes to death and remains a place of quiet reflection and cultural intrigue. Book a tour, it’s fascinating!
Helpful Information About Waterlow Park
Waterlow Park is open daily from 7.30 am until dusk. The nearest tube station is Archway (Northern Line), just a short walk up Highgate Hill. Alternatively, you can hop on the 143, 210, or 271 buses, which stop nearby. There are several entrance gates, including on Highgate Hill (opposite Highgate Cemetery), Dartmouth Park Hill, and Swain’s Lane.
Whether you’re visiting for the history, taking a leafy stroll, or enjoying a coffee in the sun, this hidden gem of a park is well worth a detour. For more information, visit the following websites: Waterlow Park, Waterlow Park Trust, and Friends of Waterlow Park.
If you want to explore the area, you may find these articles of interest:
Highgate Village London N6 Helpful Area Guide
Author: Homegirl London. Photographs: Homegirl London.