The Hill Garden & Pergola in Hampstead Heath is a true gem in North London. Tucked away on the edge of the Heath, it feels like a forgotten dream: its crumbling columns, the beautiful wisteria and roses, and those views!

I’m totally under its spell and had to share it with you because now’s the perfect time to visit.

Today, DOYOUSPEAKLONDON brings you to one of Hampstead Heath’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 as a Paris native) I’ve always been amazed by how many parks and wild corners London has. Honestly, it’s one of the things I love most about living here. 

Hampstead Heath is famous for its wild, untamed feel, incredible views over the city (see picture below), natural swimming ponds (yes, you read that right!), and that rare mix of woodland, meadows, and quiet corners that make you forget you’re still in London.

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 right now’s 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.

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!

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To go further: 

Hill Garden and Pergola in Hampstead Heath: Inverforth Cl, London NW3 7EX. The closest tube station is Hampstead.

Hill Garden and Pergola website here.

Check out my other Hidden Gems recommendations in and around London here.