Belsize Park is an attractive, lively and well-to-do part of north London, on a hill, next to the better-known Hampstead. The local area is mainly residential, largely built in the 1860s, with wide tree-lined streets and rows of semi-detached Italianate villas like ours. Further up the hill is Hampstead village with its fine 18th century buildings, picturesque lanes and terraces, and smart shops and restaurants. This area of London is well known for its historical and cultural associations and is very rewarding to explore.

For walks, picnics and wonderful views, three of London's largest green spaces are nearby: Hampstead Heath is 10 minutes walk to the north of us, with 791 acres of open fields, woods, hills and ponds; Primrose Hill and Regent's Park are 15 minutes walk down the hill towards central London. In good weather one of our favourite walks is through the two parks and their beautiful gardens into the West End, which takes about 40 minutes from our place.