West Hampstead holds more green secrets than most people realise, tucked away just minutes from Central London's busy streets. Sure, everyone knows about Hampstead Heath with its stunning views and those famous swimming ponds, but this leafy corner of London has so much more waiting to be discovered.

We've spent years wandering through West Hampstead's quieter green spaces, and honestly, we can't wait to share what we've found with you. There's something magical about living here - you get all the convenience of city life plus these amazing pockets of nature where you can actually breathe and unwind. Places like Fortune Green offer that perfect escape when you need a break from the rush. Hampstead Heath might grab all the attention with its impressive 4.7-star rating from over 19,051 Google reviews, but it's just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to green spaces around here.

This guide isn't about those famous spots everyone already knows. We're talking about the truly hidden gems - the ones that even your neighbours who've lived here for decades might not have stumbled across yet.

We'll walk you through seven secret eco-friendly havens that show off the very best of what makes West Hampstead special. These are the spots where wildlife flourishes and you can feel that genuine connection with nature, all while staying in one of London's most loved neighbourhoods. Ready to explore some places that'll surprise you?

Table of Contents

• The Hill Garden and Pergola

• Golders Hill Park

• West Heath Woodland Trails

• Fortune Green

• The Secret Garden at Hampstead Heath

• The Grange Gardens

• Railway Cottage Garden

• Quick Comparison Guide

• Quick Reference Guide

• Conclusion

The Hill Garden and Pergola

Image Source: Tripadvisor

There's something quite special hiding at the northwestern edge of Hampstead Heath - an architectural wonder that most West Hampstead visitors walk right past without ever knowing it exists. The Hill Garden and Pergola is one of those rare Edwardian gems that feels like stumbling upon a well-kept secret.

The Hill Garden and Pergola eco-friendly features

What makes this place really fascinating is how it came to be. Back in 1904, Lord Leverhulme had this brilliant idea that was way ahead of its time. Instead of carting away all the soil and rubble from the Northern Line extension to Hampstead, he used thousands of barrow loads of it to create the raised terraces that support the pergola. Pretty clever recycling for the early 1900s, wouldn't you say?

These days, nature has taken over in the most wonderful way. Those old wooden beams and stone columns have become home to all sorts of plant life, creating this amazing little ecosystem right here in West Hampstead. You'll spot birds nesting in the climbing plants, and during the warmer months, bees and butterflies absolutely love the flowers that bloom everywhere. It's like watching nature and architecture work together perfectly.

The Hill Garden and Pergola natural beauty

Walking along this 230-metre (800 feet) elevated pathway feels like stepping into another world entirely. Each season brings its own magic, and we promise you'll want to come back throughout the year to see how dramatically it changes.

The seasonal show here is absolutely stunning:

• Spring arrives with cascades of fragrant wisteria draping from those weathered beams

• Summer brings the roses to their full glory, especially gorgeous from late May through July

• Autumn paints everything in warm golden tones as the vines change colour

• Winter strips everything back to reveal the beautiful bones of the structure

What visitors love most is how wild nature has claimed these grand old columns. People often tell us it feels like "walking through an abandoned palace which has been overgrown by beautiful plants, flowers and vines". There's something wonderfully romantic about seeing this perfect blend of careful design and nature's own decorating.

The Hill Garden sits peacefully beside the walkway, with its neat lawns, quiet ponds, and thoughtfully chosen plants that play beautifully against the wilder pergola growth. Those elevated views across the gardens and out to the heath beyond? Absolutely worth the visit alone.

The Hill Garden and Pergola accessibility and location

Here's the thing about finding this treasure - it takes a bit of local know-how, which is exactly why it stays so peaceful. You'll find it tucked away on the northwestern edge of Hampstead Heath, and there are a few ways to get there.

Your best bet for public transport is hopping off at Hampstead or Golders Green stations on the Northern Line. The 210 and 268 buses will also get you close enough for a pleasant walk. From central West Hampstead, it's roughly a 20-minute stroll through some lovely streets.

The entrance adds to the whole mysterious feel - it's quite hidden and unassuming, so you might wonder if you're allowed to wander in. That slightly secretive quality is part of what keeps this place from getting too busy, unlike some of the other green spaces around here.

Here's the brilliant bit - despite all this beauty and history, it won't cost you a penny. The garden welcomes visitors year-round, though they do close at certain times, so it's worth checking before you head over.

If you're into photography, you've probably heard whispers about this place already. It's become quite the spot for professional shoots, and wedding photographers particularly love the atmosphere here. Couples can book it for their special day for around £2,500 if they want that fairy-tale backdrop.

We've wandered through here in every season, and each visit feels completely different. That's why we'd suggest popping back throughout the year - you'll be amazed at how this extraordinary place transforms itself, offering something you just won't find in other West Hampstead green spaces.

Golders Hill Park

Image Source: Day Out With The Kids

Just beyond the busier green spaces you already know sits Golders Hill Park, an absolute gem that's been charming visitors since 1898. This lovely 8-acre spot forms part of the Hampstead Heath Site of Metropolitan Importance for Nature Conservation, and honestly, it's one of those places that perfectly balances formal garden elegance with genuine wildlife encounters.

Golders Hill Park eco-friendly features

What sets this park apart from your typical urban green space is how seriously it takes its role as a wildlife sanctuary. The real star here is the free zoo - yes, completely free! - which does brilliant work in conservation education. You'll get to meet some fascinating residents:

• Ring-tailed lemurs

• Scottish wildcats

• Fallow deer

• Laughing kookaburras

• Various exotic birds

The deer enclosure is particularly special, giving these graceful animals a peaceful semi-natural home where they can graze undisturbed. We love walking slowly around the perimeter - you can get surprisingly close without bothering them.

There's one rule here that might catch you off guard: dogs need to stay on leads throughout the park. While the rest of Hampstead Heath lets dogs roam free, this policy protects the wildlife and keeps the atmosphere wonderfully calm. It's a small trade-off that makes a huge difference to the park's delicate ecosystem.

Golders Hill Park natural beauty

This place transforms completely with each season, yet somehow manages to look stunning year-round. The walled garden at the heart of it all bursts with colour during the growing months - spring and early summer are particularly spectacular when everything's in full bloom.

Water plays a big part in the park's charm. There's this lovely duck pond with a sweet little humpback bridge that creates perfect photo opportunities, plus a separate water garden that flows into a larger pond. These aren't just pretty features - they support loads of plant and animal life too.

Summer brings another treat with free concerts at the bandstand on Sunday afternoons throughout June and July. We've spent many peaceful afternoons here, listening to local musicians while soaking up the park's natural beauty.

Golders Hill Park accessibility and location

Getting here couldn't be easier. Golders Green tube station on the Northern line is your best bet, though buses 210 and 268 also stop nearby. From central West Hampstead, it's about a 15-minute stroll through some lovely residential streets.

The park does accessibility really well - there are eight disabled parking spaces via the North End Road entrance, and wheelchair-friendly paths connect most areas, including the walled garden and café.

Unlike the rest of Hampstead Heath, this park has proper opening hours. Gates open at 7:30am every day, then close anywhere from 4:30pm in winter to 9pm during summer.

Beyond just wandering and wildlife watching, there's plenty to keep you busy:

• Tennis courts if you fancy a game

• A brilliant children's playground

• Croquet lawns for something more traditional

• Table tennis for casual fun

Since we started exploring West Hampstead's green treasures, this park has become one of our absolute favourites. The mix of formal gardens, animal encounters, and recreational facilities makes it perfect for families, nature enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a proper break from city life.

West Heath Woodland Trails

Image Source: The Outdoor Guide

Step into the wilder side of Hampstead Heath and you'll find yourself on the West Heath Woodland Trails - a completely different world from the neat, tidy parks we've just explored. Despite the Heath welcoming around nine million visitors each year, these woodland paths feel wonderfully secluded, giving you that proper forest experience without leaving London behind.

West Heath Woodland Trails eco-friendly features

Here's something that'll blow your mind - West Heath is home to one of London's few natural bogs. We're talking about a seriously rare wetland habitat that supports plant communities you won't find anywhere else in the city. It's like having a slice of ancient countryside right on your doorstep. The area does heavy lifting for London's water system too, with four major rivers - the Westbourne, Tyburn, Brent, and Fleet - all starting their journey from springs right here on the Heath.

The trees here are absolute legends. We're talking about over 800 ancient specimens scattered across the Heath, with some of those mighty oaks standing proud for more than 500 years. You'll even spot rare wild service trees, which proves this is proper ancient woodland. These grand old trees aren't just beautiful - they're basically five-star hotels for wildlife. Seven different bat species call this place home, including Noctule, Serotine, and Brown Long-eared bats. Pretty special stuff.

West Heath Woodland Trails natural beauty

The moment you step onto these trails, London just melts away. Seriously, despite being smack in the middle of the capital, once you're walking among these trees, the city feels like a distant memory. The mix of old-growth and newer woodland creates this ever-changing landscape that keeps surprising you around every bend.

Wildlife spotting here is fantastic. We've lost count of how many different birds we've seen darting through the canopy. That "full-throated chorus of bird song" that visitors rave about? It's absolutely real. Keep your ears open and you might catch the distinctive tapping of the Heath's resident woodpeckers working away on those ancient trunks.

What really gets us excited is the history beneath your feet. Archaeologists have found evidence that people were living here during the Mesolithic period - we're talking 10,000 to 5,000 BC. Walking these same paths where prehistoric Londoners once roamed adds a whole other layer of magic to the experience.

The trails wind through different landscapes, and you'll come across these lovely little ponds tucked away between the trees. They're perfect spots for a quiet moment, and during summer, you might catch sight of some of the Heath's 15 dragonfly species zipping around in brilliant flashes of colour.

West Heath Woodland Trails accessibility and location

Getting to the West Heath trails feels like you're hunting for hidden treasure, which honestly adds to the fun. Your best bet is Hampstead or Golders Green stations on the Northern Line - both are perfectly doable for West Hampstead folks.

The main paths are pretty easy to follow, but we'd definitely suggest wearing proper walking shoes, especially after it's been raining. The terrain varies quite a bit, so if you fancy a bit more of a workout than the flatter parks around here, this is your spot.

Don't bother trying to drive - parking around the Heath is pretty much impossible, so stick with public transport. If you need help getting around, there's the Heath Mobile service with an electric buggy (give them a ring on 020 7485 5757).

Give yourself at least an hour to really explore these trails properly. The paths aren't marked on the ground, which might sound scary but actually makes the whole experience feel more like a proper adventure. Trust us, getting a bit lost in this ancient woodland is half the fun.

Fortune Green

Image Source: Tripadvisor

Right in the heart of North West London, you'll find Fortune Green - a lovely little retreat that perfectly captures what makes West Hampstead such a special place to call home. Most visitors rush past this gem whilst hunting for bigger green spaces, but locals know it's one of those perfect spots where you can truly relax and feel part of the community.

Fortune Green eco-friendly features

Don't let Fortune Green's size fool you - this unassuming park punches well above its weight when it comes to helping our local environment. The mature trees and well-kept lawns might look simple, but they're working hard behind the scenes to provide vital green infrastructure for this busy part of London. Those beautiful old trees aren't just pretty to look at - they're busy creating homes for local birds and insects whilst cleaning the air we all breathe.

What we love most about this space is how it naturally cools down the whole area during those sweltering summer months. The open grass does wonders for soaking up rainwater too, which is becoming more important as we see heavier downpours. It's one of those quiet environmental wins that makes you appreciate good planning.

The Fortune Green Play Centre sits right alongside the main green space, run by the Council's Play Service. It's brilliant how families can enjoy nature whilst the kids get proper structured play time - really gets the little ones thinking about the environment from an early age.

Fortune Green natural beauty

There's something wonderfully honest about Fortune Green's beauty. It doesn't try to impress you with fancy landscaping or grand features. Instead, it offers something much more valuable - a genuine connection with nature right on your doorstep. The open lawns change beautifully through the seasons, from that fresh spring green to warm autumn golds.

We've spent countless hours here watching how locals use this space, and it's heartwarming to see:

• Friends gathering for relaxed picnics on sunny afternoons

• People taking gentle walks after work to decompress

• Quiet moments with a book under the shade of those lovely trees

People often tell us Fortune Green is "the perfect place to absorb nature and just recharge", and we couldn't agree more. Property prices around here might make you wince, but this green space belongs to everyone - it's that democratic approach to nature that makes communities thrive.

The children's playground brings generations together beautifully throughout the year. There's something special about watching grandparents push swings whilst parents chat nearby - it's the kind of community spirit that makes West Hampstead feel like a proper neighbourhood.

Fortune Green accessibility and location

Getting to Fortune Green couldn't be easier. You'll find it just off Fortune Green Road in West Hampstead, making it a breeze to reach from anywhere in the area.

The transport connections here are fantastic if you're coming from further afield:

• West Hampstead Underground Station (Jubilee Line)

• West Hampstead Overground Station

• West Hampstead Thameslink Station

These stations sit right next to all the shops and cafés on West End Lane, so you can easily combine a visit to Fortune Green with a proper day out exploring the neighbourhood.

Here's a nice bit of local history - Fortune Green used to be part of Hampstead until they built the new turnpike road (that's Finchley Road now) back in the 1830s. These days, Camden Council looks after the grounds, and they do a lovely job keeping everything well-maintained.

The flats around Fortune Green, like those in Alfred Court, often boast views over the park. We've seen properties advertised as "beautifully presented two bedroom apartment" with "a private balcony" - it just shows how much people value having green space right outside their window. Can't say we blame them.

The Secret Garden at Hampstead Heath

Image Source: Bowsessed

Somewhere within Hampstead Heath's vast green expanse sits a truly magical spot that feels like stumbling into a fairy tale. The Secret Garden at Hampstead Heath is one of those places that makes you stop and wonder how something so enchanting can exist right here in London, where crumbling Edwardian stonework has become the perfect canvas for nature's artistry.

The Secret Garden eco-friendly features

This garden tells one of the most beautiful stories of nature taking back what was once formal and perfectly controlled. Back in the 1900s, wealthy Lord Leverhulme created this as his private garden for grand summer parties, with every plant and pathway planned to perfection. But time had other plans, and what happened next is absolutely wonderful - nature slowly began to reclaim the space, turning it into something even more spectacular than its original design.

The magic happens in how the garden balances letting nature do its thing while still caring for the space responsibly. Exotic plants and wild vines have made themselves at home around the old Edwardian stonework, creating cosy nooks and hiding spots for all sorts of wildlife. Every time we visit, there's something new to spot - whether it's bees buzzing around the climbing flowers or birds making their homes in the tangled greenery.

What really makes this place special is how it shows what can happen when we give nature the space to breathe and grow. The garden has become a vital stepping stone for pollinators moving across the Heath, proving that sometimes the best thing we can do for the environment is simply step back and let it flourish.

The Secret Garden natural beauty

The garden changes its personality completely with each season, and honestly, it's hard to pick a favourite time to visit. Spring brings those gorgeous azaleas and rhododendrons that pop against the weathered stone like nature's own art gallery. Summer fills every corner with wild colour and the sweet scent of climbing plants that have made the old structures their home.

Those raised walkways are something else entirely - they give you this incredible bird's-eye view over the Heath that you just can't get anywhere else around here. Standing up there feels like you're floating above your own secret world, especially when morning mist drifts across the landscape below.

There's something genuinely romantic about the whole place. The way formal garden design mingles with wild, untamed growth creates this dreamy atmosphere that's captured the hearts of:

• Wedding photographers who know a perfect backdrop when they see one

• Artists drawn to the interplay of structure and wild beauty

• Anyone looking for that perfect quiet spot to escape city stress

  
  

The Secret Garden accessibility and location

Finding this gem does require a bit of detective work, which honestly just adds to its charm. The garden sits tucked away on Hampstead Heath's edge, close to Hampstead Village, and getting there feels like part of the adventure.

Your best bet for public transport is hopping off at Hampstead or Golders Green on the Northern Line. The walk from either station is lovely and helps build up that sense of anticipation. There are also several bus routes that'll get you close enough for a pleasant stroll.

Here's the thing that makes this place even more special - walking through the entrance genuinely feels like you might be somewhere you shouldn't be. That hidden, almost secretive quality is exactly what keeps the crowds away and maintains that peaceful, contemplative atmosphere once you're inside.

The best part? It won't cost you a penny to experience this slice of magic. Just remember to check the opening times before you head out, as the gates do close at set times throughout the year.

Want our top tip? Get there early in the morning when the world is still quiet. That's when you'll hear the garden at its most beautiful - just you, the birdsong, and this incredible hidden world that most of London doesn't even know exists.

The Grange Gardens

Image Source: The Londog

Right in the middle of NW6's busy streets, you'll find The Grange Gardens - one of those special places that perfectly captures what we love about West Hampstead's community spirit. This isn't just another green space; it's a place where neighbours come together to create something beautiful and meaningful.

The Grange Gardens eco-friendly features

What makes The Grange Gardens really special is how it brings people together around caring for the environment. Part of Kilburn Grange Park, this space thrives because local volunteers genuinely care about making it better. We love watching how the community has developed the wildlife area - it's amazing what happens when passionate people work together to support nature in our urban neighbourhood.

The garden's got some pretty clever eco-friendly features too. There's this fantastic sedum roof system that's doing wonders for the environment. It's not just beautiful to look at - it's actually cleaning the air, managing rainwater, and helping with insulation. It's a brilliant example of how thoughtful design can solve real problems while looking great.

If you're someone who enjoys getting your hands dirty for a good cause, there are plenty of ways to get involved. You can help with pruning, clearing ground, weeding, or supporting wildlife projects. It's one of those rare places where you can make a real difference while meeting like-minded people who care about the same things you do.

The Grange Gardens natural beauty

The beauty here isn't flashy or grand - it's the kind that grows from genuine care and community effort. You'd walk right past it without knowing it exists - the garden stays hidden from the road, tucked away behind discreet entrances. But once you're inside, you'll discover this peaceful spot where thoughtful landscaping meets natural charm.

The plant-sharing initiatives have created something quite special - a constantly changing display of colours and textures that reflects the community's diverse contributions. There's even this impressive garden room with traditional Japanese-style charred timber cladding. It's a perfect example of how old techniques can work beautifully in modern eco-friendly spaces.

The Grange Gardens accessibility and location

Finding this hidden treasure takes a bit of local knowledge, which is part of what makes it so special. It's tucked away on Mill Lane NW6, nice and close to West Hampstead tube station. You can easily get there via Kilburn High Road overground or the Brondesbury and West Hampstead tube stations.

We really appreciate how the Friends of Kilburn Grange Park have made sure everyone can enjoy this space. They've thought carefully about accessibility, making sure both the garden and all the activities work for people of all abilities. That inclusive approach is exactly what makes West Hampstead such a welcoming place to call home.

The garden serves as more than just a green space - it's become a real community hub where people from all walks of life come together and form genuine connections. When you combine the environmental benefits with this social aspect, you get something that's truly at the heart of what makes our neighbourhood so special.

Railway Cottage Garden

Image Source: National Garden Scheme

Just a short trip from West Hampstead, you'll find something really special on Dorset Road - a row of Victorian railway cottages that tells a lovely story about London's gardening heritage. These charming homes were originally built for British Rail workers, and today they showcase some of the most thoughtful, eco-friendly gardens you'll find anywhere in North London.

Railway Cottage Garden eco-friendly features

What strikes you immediately about these gardens is how much love has gone into making them bee and butterfly friendly. Every cottage seems to have this wonderful focus on scented flowers that bring wildlife buzzing around. We've been amazed by how these compact urban gardens create such important havens for local creatures - it's incredible what you can achieve in a small space when you really care about supporting nature.

Number 14 really caught our attention with its relaxed, organic approach. The whole garden feels like it's been designed around what bees and butterflies actually want, with plenty of fragrant herbs, flowers and shrubs that smell absolutely gorgeous. What we love most is how many of these gardens still grow traditional medicinal plants that you'd expect to find in old cottage gardens - it's like they're keeping this wonderful knowledge alive for future generations.

Railway Cottage Garden natural beauty

Each cottage garden has its own personality, which makes wandering along the row such a treat. Take Number 2 Dorset Road - it's got this peaceful country feel that wraps around three sides of the house, with beautifully trimmed hedges sitting alongside climbing roses, clematis, honeysuckle, and lovely grasses and ferns.

The variety of fruit trees is impressive too:

• Mulberry, quince, fig and apple trees dotted around

• A gorgeous mature willow that creates this shady spot with a little pond

Then there's Number 24a, which takes a completely different approach with raised beds made from old railway sleepers - such a clever nod to the cottages' railway history. These beds are absolutely bursting with vegetables, herbs and flowers, proving you can have a garden that's both productive and beautiful.

Railway Cottage Garden accessibility and location

Now, we should mention that these gardens are a bit of a trek from central West Hampstead - you'll need to head northeast to Wood Green near Alexandra Palace. But honestly, it's worth the journey. If you're using public transport, Alexandra Palace train station is just 3 minutes away, or you can take the tube to Wood Green and walk for about 10 minutes. The W3 and 184 buses also stop really close by.

Sunday visits work out well because you can park for free on the local streets, and at just £5 for entry, it's brilliant value for such a unique experience. Just be aware that the gardens aren't set up for wheelchair access yet, so do keep that in mind when planning your visit from West Hampstead.

Quick Comparison Guide

Here's a handy breakdown of all seven spots to help you decide which ones to visit first. We've pulled together the key details that matter most when you're planning your green space adventures around West Hampstead.

Quick Reference Guide

Wrapping Up

West Hampstead really is something special - a place where city convenience meets genuine natural beauty. After exploring these seven hidden spots with you, it's clear this neighbourhood has treasures that go way beyond what most people expect to find in London.

Each place we've visited tells its own story. The Hill Garden and Pergola brings that grand, romantic feel with its elevated walkways, while West Heath's ancient woodland makes you forget you're in a major city. Fortune Green keeps things simple and community-focused, and The Grange Gardens shows what happens when neighbours come together to create something beautiful.

These aren't just pretty places to visit - they're doing important work for London's wildlife too. The bee gardens at Railway Cottage, West Heath's rare bog habitat, and Golders Hill Park's wildlife sanctuary all help keep our city's ecosystem healthy. They create those vital green corridors that wildlife needs to move around, making them incredibly valuable for our urban environment.

The beauty of these spots really shines through the seasons. Each time of year brings something different - winter shows off the architectural bones of The Secret Garden, spring fills Golders Hill Park with colour, summer brings Fortune Green to life, and autumn turns the West Heath trails into something magical.

What strikes us most is how accessible these peaceful retreats are. Even though they feel like escapes from city life, they're all just a short journey from tube stations and bus stops. This perfect balance of tranquillity and convenience really captures what makes living in West Hampstead so appealing.

These hidden eco-friendly spots offer more than just natural beauty - they're places where community happens, where history lives on, and where you can find that bit of peace we all need sometimes. Next time you're in this lovely corner of London, take the time to seek out these secret gardens and woodland paths. Trust us, they're worth discovering.