The Jewel of North London

I have tried to write this over and over again, hoping my words would do the location justice. But I’ve had to abandon those dreams and hope that my photos instead will capture what words cannot…I know, that is such a dramatic opener. 

But how am I to go about describing a place such as this?

The Hill Garden and Pergola is truly an open secret tucked away within the bounds of Hampstead Heath. It was the brainchild of William H. Lever (Lord Leverhulme) and his architect Thomas Mawson. The Pergola was part of a larger mansion, Hill House, which is now demolished.

Lord Leverhulme would host garden parties on the terrace, which I can only imagine were nothing short of fabulous. Just picture it: warm summer nights, dangling vines, and hidden alcoves.

Many people often miss this delight as it's not in the same area as the main highlights of Kenwood House and Parliament Hill. However, it's actually quite easy to find via Google Maps.

I had a pleasant walk through Hampstead Village coming off the tube station. I took my time heading north and stopped along the way taking photos of the lovely Hampstead lanes and willow trees. 

At first I was uncertain as the path leading me went through some wooded areas (I call this “the back way”), but this turned out to be the best way to arrive, as I was greeted with a view of the dirt path leading towards the stairs to the terrace.

Even on a lovely Autumn afternoon on a Saturday, it didn't feel as crowded as it surely could have been!

The Pergola is equally beautiful in all seasons. In summer, the garden is lush and full. Spring welcomes wisteria under the trellises, which makes a beautiful backdrop for any occasion. Autumn witnesses the changing leaves and a warmer setting sun, while winter can become blanketed by snow (if we’re lucky that season!). 

How lucky are we to have such a gem right in the heart of North London!

You can find more photos of my visit here!