Must Visit Historic Houses Hampstead London NW3

Unearth the hidden stories of the historic houses in Hampstead, London NW3. Each residence, from the stately Kenwood House to the intriguing Freud Museum, holds a unique narrative, providing a captivating glimpse into the lives of the distinguished figures who once called these places home. With Kenton House and Burgh House offering free entry and delightful dining options, your itinerary is set for a fascinating journey through history. Whether you’re seeking the best things to do in Hampstead, historic houses in London, or you want to enjoy a splendid day out in NW3, these homes await your discovery.

Here are five Historic Hampstead Houses you shouldn’t miss:

1. Kenwood House: An Art Aficionado’s Paradise
2. Burgh House: A Portal to Local History
3. Fenton House and Garden: A Haven for Instrument Enthusiasts and Garden Admirers
4. Keats House: A Romantic Retreat for Poetry Lovers
5. Freud Museum: A Journey into the Mind of Sigmund Freud

Kenwood House

Delve into the rich artistic heritage of Kenwood House, a preserved gem by the English Heritage. This 17th-century neoclassical villa was previously the residence of the Earls of Mansfield. It hosts a magnificent collection of Old Master and British paintings, including Rembrandt, Turner and Reynolds. The Library, designed by Robert Adam, is my personal favourite. After exploring the beautiful rooms, savour a meal at The Brew House or The Stewards Room. Don’t forget to pick up a souvenir from one of the three gift shops. Kenwood House offers free entry at Hampstead Lane, London NW3 7JR. Opening times are 10 am to 5 pm daily but check their website for the latest information.

Burgh House and Buttery Café

Step into the past with a visit to Burgh House, a Grade I listed Queen Anne Mansion. As a museum, it showcases over 5000 artefacts that unravel the story of the House, its neighbourhood, and its former residents. The Library, or the erstwhile Drawing Room, is a must-see adorned with a white fireplace from the 1720s. Don’t forget to stop by the Buttery Café for a delightful meal. The House, at New End Square, Hampstead, London NW3 1LT, offers free entry and is open on selected days from 10 am until 4 pm. The Café operates from 10 am on weekdays to 9.30 am on weekends and bank holidays.

Fenton House and Garden

Wander through the alluring Fenton House and Garden. It’s a 17th-century merchant’s House wealthy with period art, decorative pieces, ceramics, needlepoint, and early keyboard instruments. The manicured Garden, complete with a sunken rose garden and ancient orchard, is a sight to behold. My favourite part of the visit was sitting on a bench admiring the stunning Garden and the House. Fenton House and Garden are open Fridays, Sundays and Bank Holiday Mondays from March to October. You must book tickets in advance to view House and Garden, £11 for one adult or just the Garden, £7 per adult.

Keats House and Library

Step into the world of romantic poetry at Keats House, the Regency villa that once sheltered the celebrated English poet John Keats. This historic House tells tales of love, literature, and the lives of its past residents. Visitors are given the unique opportunity to recreate a cherished painting of Keats, seated in contemplation within his study. In my opinion, the most captivating corners of the House are Fanny Brawne’s bedroom, the site of many a love letter, and Keats’ study, where he penned his immortal verses. Outside, the Garden hosts a distinguished Mulberry Tree with a plaque indicating its status as one of the 70 Ancient Trees dedicated to Her Majesty The Queen. Adjacent to the House is the charming Keats Library, inviting you to peruse its literary treasures. At 10 Keats Grove, London NW3 2RT, Keats House welcomes visitors from Wednesday to Sunday. Tickets for adults are reasonably priced at £8.50.

Freud Museum

Embark on an intriguing journey into the world-renowned psychoanalyst Sigmund Freud’s psyche at the Freud Museum. This museum provides an intimate look into Freud’s life and work, featuring the celebrated psychoanalytic couch in Freud’s study. Note his specially designed anthropomorphic chair accommodates his preferred seating posture. As you navigate the dining room, you’ll uncover the intriguing narrative of Freud’s groundbreaking work in psychoanalysis. Moreover, visiting Anna Freud’s room unveils her contributions to child psychoanalysis. The Freud Museum, situated at 20 Maresfield Gardens, London NW3 5SX. The museum welcomes visitors from Wednesday to Sunday between 10.30 am and 5 pm. Entry tickets for adults are priced at £14.

Modernist House 2 Willow Road

2 willow road historic modernist house — Credits: Twentieth Century Architects Series. Erno Goldfinger. 2 Willow Road, Camden, Greater London. General view of the drawing room. Terrace of three houses by Erno Goldfinger 1938. View from the west.

Another house worth visiting is 2 Willow Road by Ernő Goldfinger. The visionary Hungarian-born architect designed it and even lived there. Completed in 1939, the three-house terrace has become an iconic symbol of Modern Architecture. Today it is managed by the National Trust, with viewings on Thursdays and Saturdays only from March until October. There is a guided tour or a free-flow visit at £10 per non-member adult. The full address is 2 Willow Road, Hampstead, London NW3 1TH.

See My Ten Things To Do In Hampstead Video

Helpful Information About Hampstead London NW3

Perched between Highgate, Belsize Park, Finchley, and Golders Green, Hampstead is a charming enclave with the primary postcode NW3. It boasts two easily accessible stations: Hampstead Underground (Northern Line) and Hampstead Heath (Overground). It has a tranquil village vibe with pedestrianised cobbled streets filled with cafes and independent shops. It’s a scenic area to walk around the residential streets. You’ll also enjoy exploring Hampstead Heath’s wildness or Golders Hill Park’s beauty. The Wikipedia Hampstead page is a comprehensive resource for a deeper understanding of the area’s rich history and culture.