|
History of Hampstead
Although it is referred to in the Domesday Book (1086), Hampstead’s history tends to start around the 17th century.
Trustees of the Well started advertising the medicinal qualities of the chalybeate waters (water impregnated with iron) in 1700. Although Hampstead Wells was initially most successful and fashionable, its popularity declined in the 1800s due to competition with other fashionable London spas and eventually the loss of interest in these spas with advances of modern medicine.
Hampstead expanded after the opening of the North London Railway in the 1860s , and expanded further after the Charing Cross, Euston & Hampstead Railway opened in 1907 (now part of London Underground's Northern Line) and provided fast travel to central London.
Many luxurious and opulent houses were built during the 1870s and 1880s and the area never ceased to be attractive to the super rich. Many properties are very large, detached with very big gardens, usually set in quiet leafy streets. Many of these propertyies are hardly visible from the road due to the large high walls surrounding them, allowing total privacy to their residents.
Hampstead heath nearby is the largest expanse of ancient parkland in London and covers almost 800 acres. It has many ancient trees, ponds and amazing views from parliement Hill in particular. The whole area was saved from development in the late 19th centuries leaving this area of quasi English countryside for londoners to enjoy.
Properties in hampstead fetch very high prices but there are also ex-coucil properties and small flats available. The area has many restaurants, bars and boutiques. It is also reasonably close to Camden. The area has a true village feel and its residents are very diligent in ensuring it does not lose its village charm.
Places of interest
http://www.hampstead-village.co.uk/index.htm
http://www.allinlondon.co.uk/regions/hampstead-and-west-hampstead/
• Hampstead heath • Freud Museum • Keats' House • Kenwood House • Fenton House • The Isokon building
• Camden Arts Centre • Everyman Cinema
Transport Links – Visit Transport for London for more information
Hampstead –Northern Line
Local Authority
Camden – http://www.camden.gov.uk/
Please click here to go back to the North London Property Guides main menu
|