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A wild park of open grassland, deciduous woodland, bog and 25 ponds, spanning 320 hectares, less than four miles from the centre of London.
Hampstead Heath is an ancient heath in London. This grassy public space sits astride a sandy ridge, one of the highest points in London. The heath is rambling and hilly, embracing ponds, recent and ancient woodlands. The south-east part of the heath is Parliament Hill, from which the view over London is protected by law. Running along its eastern perimeter is a chain of ponds.
Over 180 bird species have been recorded on the Heath. Summer visitors include Tornsanger, Løvsanger, Gransanger, Landsvale, Mursejler, Grå Fluesnapper and Munk. Autumn visitors are Bynkefugl and Stenpikker. Winter visitors include Vindrossel, Sjagger, Grønsisken and Gråsisken. Water birds include Isfugl, Bjergvipstjert, Troldand, Toppet Lappedykker, Taffeland and Mandarin-and. Open heath birds include Stillits, Tårnfalk, Tornirisk, Sanglærke and Misteldrossel. Woodland birds include Dompap, Fuglekonge, Spætmejse, Natugle and Stor Flagspætte.
The best birding is done near the Highgate Ponds, the woodland to the west of Parliament Hill and the woodland alongside and east of Spaniards Road.
Hampstead Heath is located four miles north of the centre of London. The main public transport options are the Northern Line and the Overground. The Northern Line will be easiest if you are coming from the centre of London, and the Overground will likely be the better option if you’re coming from the east or west. Journey times from the centre of London, say Kings Cross station, will be around 30-45 minutes. The nearest stations are marked with a star. There’s plenty of places to lock up a bike. Please don’t drive unless you really have to - parking is limited.
There are many paths to explore the area. The 7 km circular walk shown on the map is just a suggestion.
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