Things to do with kids in Hampstead
Hampstead's appeal for families is rooted in nature. The Heath is one of London's great treasures: vast, hilly, genuinely wild in places, and with a paddling pool and playground that are excellent from the pram stage. Highgate Wood nearby is ancient and beautiful, and the combination of the two green spaces means you can spend an entire day north of the city without running out of things for kids to explore.
The honest caveat is that Hampstead Heath itself has uneven terrain that makes it harder with buggies than a lot of London parks. Bring a carrier if you have a baby, and wellies in any season other than a dry summer. Alexandra Palace is worth the 20-minute bus ride for the views alone, and the ice rink is one of the better ones in London for family sessions throughout the year.
The paddling pool in summer is genuinely wonderful, and the surrounding heath means you can let older kids roam with a bit more freedom than most London parks allow. Bring wellies in winter; the paths get muddy in the best possible way.
Ancient woodland in north London with a nature playground, sports pitches, and beautiful walking trails. Feels like genuine countryside in the city, and in autumn the changing leaves make it spectacular. The cafe is excellent.
Huge park with a boating lake, playground, ice rink, and the best panoramic views of London from any park in the city. The palace hosts family events and seasonal activities, and the ice rink does family sessions year-round that are great for all ages from about 4 up.