Hidden on the outskirts of Hampstead Heath, The Hill Garden & Pergola is a secret oasis. Weathered columns, lush wisteria, and vibrant roses frame enchanting views, giving the feeling that you’ve stepped into another world.
Today, DOYOUSPEAKLONDON brings you to one of Hampstead’s quiet treasures, a spot that feels like London’s best-kept secret!
Hampstead Heath: London’s wild heart
Spanning over 800 acres, Hampstead Heath stands as one of London’s most loved green spaces, just a short walk from the renowned Hampstead Village in North London.
Coming from France, and especially Paris, I’ve always been struck by how green London feels with its parks, secret gardens, and peaceful corners. It’s easily one of my favourite aspects of living here!
Famous for its untamed landscapes, Hampstead Heath offers breathtaking views of London (check out the photo below), natural swimming ponds, and a rare mix of woodland, meadows, and quiet spots that feel worlds away from city life.
Beyond its natural beauty, the Heath is home to hidden gems, including the enchanting Hill Garden and Pergola, which I fully discovered lately.
The Pergola: nature’s quiet takeover
Tucked on the western edge of Hampstead Heath, the Pergola is a beautiful bit of Edwardian charm.
And spring (April) is the best time to go: the wisteria’s in full bloom, draping everything in colour and filling the air with the sweetest scent. It gives the whole place such a dreamy, magical feel.
Built in 1904 by Lord Leverhulme, the Pergola was designed for grand garden parties and quiet strolls. I can only imagine the mix of elegance and over-the-top glamour it must’ve had back then!
Designed by architect Thomas Mawson, it mixes grand columns with wooden beams and over the years, nature’s taken over. Now, vines, roses and wisteria trail through the structure, giving it a dreamy, romantic feel.
You can still walk through the crumbling columns and take in the views over the woodlands. Honestly, it feels a bit surreal: wandering through the Pergola is like stepping into another world, half-forgotten but full of charm.
It’s definitely Instagrammable, so don’t be surprised if it gets a bit busy, especially on weekends. If you can, try going early in the morning to really soak it all in without the crowds.
On my last visit, I found out that white wisteria is a thing too! I’d only ever seen the purple kind, so spotting the white blooms was such a lovely surprise.
After Lord Leverhulme died in 1925, the estate changed hands and was eventually abandoned. Luckily, the London County Council stepped in during the 1960s to restore it, and by 1963 it was open to the public again.
The City of London gave it another refresh in the late ’80s and today, the Pergola and garden are a beautiful reminder of London’s love for preserving quiet, historic green spaces.
Hill Garden: Hampstead’s hidden escape
This is the part I really discovered this year. Behind the Pergola, we followed the stairs down to an unexpected, beautifully curated garden. It was so peaceful, we completely forgot we were in the heart of a busy city!
Adjacent to the Pergola lies the Hill Garden, a beautifully landscaped area that once served as the private grounds of a grand manor.
Today, it’s a haven of tranquility, featuring manicured lawns, reflective ponds, and a diverse array of flora.
Spring is the perfect time to visit: the garden comes alive with colourful azaleas and rhododendrons, making it the ideal spot to relax and enjoy nature.
I hope you’ve enjoyed getting a sneak peek of the Hill Garden and Pergola in Hampstead Heath! If you’re planning to visit soon, I’d love to hear all about your adventure over on DOYOUSPEAKLONDON!
Check out my other Hidden Gems recommendations in and around London here.
Love discovering beautiful spots like this?
To go further:
Hill Garden & Pergola
Hampstead Heath, London, NW3 1TH
Website: https://www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/things-to-do/green-spaces/hampstead-heath
