We all know we should be doing everything we can to stay fit and healthy. For many of us that means always looking for new and interesting ways to keep active. Fortunately for those of us in the Hampstead and Highgate area, we have a treasure trove of fun activities on our doorstep, in the form of Hampstead Heath.

Where is Hampstead Heath

Hampstead Heath is situated in North London, in between Hampstead to the west, and Highgate and Archway to the east. It sprawls over 800 acres and boasts some of the most spectacular views in the city. My practice is located just off of the east side. It’s free to visit, and served by many tubes and buses. Let’s dive in and see what’s on offer.

Walking on Hampstead Heath

It’s a pleasure just to get lost on Hampstead Heath, with its many paths and hills. There’s no need to go with a fixed itinerary, but if you want to there are many pre-mapped routes available. The Inner London Ramblers have created two routes which take in sights including the ponds and Kenwood House. London X London also have a few routes planned out at various difficulty levels.

If you prefer a social walk, you might want to try the Hampstead Ramblers, or Heath Hands, who organise health walks twice a week on the Heath, meeting at the Parliament Hill Café.

If you’re looking for something a little more challenging in your Heath walk, try a WALX. WALX meet at The Spaniard’s Inn before going for a Heath walk that incorporates running drills, and strength and balance exercises.

Running on Hampstead Heath

With its many hills, Hampstead Heath always has a fresh challenge for runners. Of course you can simply figure out your own route, but there are many already mapped out for you, such as these ones by All Trails and Women Running The World.

If you prefer organised running, you could try the Highgate Harriers, who meet in the south of the Heath.

Or the Serpentine Runners, who have a Hampstead Heath run.

If you prefer track running, Hampstead Heath has its own athletics track, with passes available from just £5.

Outdoor Gym

Just by the playground and paddling pool, you’ll also find an outdoor gym with parallel bars and similar equipment.

Bootcamps

If bootcamps are your thing, there are many groups that organise outdoor training sessions on the Heath, including Muddy Plimsoles, Be Military Fit, and Train Dirty London. Bootcamps can be a great way to get in an intense, instructor-led workout at a low cost, whilst meeting people at the same time.

Swimming on Hampstead Heath

Hampstead Heath is a swimmer’s dream, with 4 different places to swim! The Lido costs just £4.50 for an adult ticket and is open 365 days a year.

For those brave enough to truly swim outdoors, complete with mud, fish and ducks, Hampstead Heath has 3 separate bathing pools – one for men, one for women, and one mixed.

The Ladies’ Pond is located to the east of the Heath.

The Mens’ Pond is just to the south east.

Whilst the mixed pond is located further to the west

Tennis Courts

If you’d rather stay dry, there are tennis courts in the south west of Hampstead Heath, available to book for less than £15. Leagues and coaching are also available.

Cricket

If cricket is your thing, Hampstead Heath also has cricket pitches.

Unless you’re planning on playing on your own, you might also want to consider joining a team like Hampstead Cricket Club.

Bowls

And last of all, if you fancy something a lot more sedentary, Parliament Hill also has its own bowling green and club, where you can relax and bowl in a social environment.

And if you need an osteopath…

Be sure to warm up and warm down correctly whilst doing sports, but if you do experience any aches and pains, I’m only a stone’s throw away!