Stately jewel with a masterful art collection and a view
Perched at the northern most tip of Hampstead Heath — the most northern part of London you need [and should] concern yourself with — is this predominantly 18th-century country house [Robert Adam] whose relatively compact but formidable collection of paintings perfectly complements an afternoon's walk on the equally sublime Heath [and neighbouring Hampstead Village]. Here you'll find one of the world's 31 Vermeer paintings alongside works by Rembrandt, Turner Hals, Van Dyck, Gainsborough, Landseer and others. A very civilised excursion to north London. Just be warned that Sundays draw the crowds. P.S. Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant were here for a scene in the 1999 film NOTTING HILL. Restaurant/café on site. Tube station: Hampstead. Overground station: Hampstead Heath or Gospel Oak.

Tags: Park , Art , Cafe / Bistro , Gallery