The Best Things to do in Belsize Park, London

Looking for things to do in Belsize Park? From charming estates to delightful independents, here’s how to spend your time in this North London gem, from a Londoner.

This post may contain affiliate links. Check out my Disclosure & Privacy Policy for more information.

One thing I love about London is all the deliciously unknown neighbourhoods there are. With its spitting proximity to Hampstead and Primrose Hill its easy to forget Belsize Park has an identity of its own.

But once you get a taste of all the local gems, independent charm, and celebrity buzz this neighbourhood has to offer, then you’ll realise just how special this pocket of North London really is.

Here’s the best things to do in Belsize Park, from a Londoner.

Table of Contents

The Best Things to do in Belsize Park, London

Admire Belsize Park’s Estates & Side Streets

The name Belsize Park derives from the French word bel assis or ‘well situated’, which pretty much describes this neighbourhood perfectly.

Take in the neighbourhood properly with a leisurely stroll along the area’s most intriguing estates and charming side streets. Particularly on Steele’s Road, Lyndhurst Gardens, Belsize Lane, Belsize Court Gardens, the Princess Mews, Elizabeth Mews, England Lane and Chalcot Gardens.

Visit the Isokon Gallery

In the 1920s and 30s Belsize Park (along with Hampstead and others) was home to many artists’ in London — the Isokon was their official residence quarters.

The 36 block of flats was designed by a Canadian architect as an experiment in minimalist urban living. Notable residents included Walter Gropius, Marcel Breuer, Arthur Korn and most notably so, Agatha Christie (amongst many others, including Soviet spys at one point).

Nowadays the Ikosen Gallery is a permanent and free exhibition, and a fantastic thing to do in Belsize Park to get a deeper history and appreciation for the area.

Become a Local at Chez Nous

You know you’re at a local gem when they don’t even have a website. Guess you’ll have to visit for yourself to see what all the fuss is about.

A family-run staple, Chez Nous sits nicely on Haverstock Hill, serving everything from a hot English breakfast to warm gooey pastries. Point being, if unpretentious dining, friendly staff and generous portions are your thing, you need to add this to your list of Belsize Park things to do.

Have a Monday Night Pub Quiz at The Washington

the-washington-pub — *Photo Courtesy of The Washington*

It can’t get more ‘Belsize Park’ than a pint and a pub night at The Washington. Sandwiched between Hampstead Village and Belsize Park, The Washington is where you go for the vibe of regulars and a good time.

Their Monday pub quiz night is especially good, with celebrity sightings not unheard of.

Get a Taste of Roni’s on Belsize Lane

Nothing says good morning in Belsize Park like a fresh bagel at Roni’s. Opened in 1989 Roni’s has become known across London (and the UK really) for their quality ingredients and homemade goods.

Grab a bagel or pastry along the square and take in Belsize village scenes like a local.

Have a Walk through the Belsize Wood Nature Reserve

If you’re craving some nature for your time in Belsize Park, pay a visit to the Belsize Wood Nature Reserve. Nestled between Belsize Park’s tube station and Lawn Road it’s .7 acres of local wildlife, woodlands and plants — and makes a great little walk if you want to skip the crowds of Hampstead Heath or Primrose Hill.

Pick up a Read at Daunt Books

As soon as you exit Belsize Park station you’ll be hit with the delightfully familiar Daunt Books.

The Edwardian bookshop (known for its travel books and pleasing interiors) has made a name for its itself past its Marylebone High Street branch now, conveniently plopped on Haverstock Hill for all of North London to enjoy. Have a peek inside and pick up a read if you’re keen.

Funnily enough there’s also another one in Hampstead, less than a 10 minute walk away!

Have a Movie Night at Everyman Cinema

Although a trip to Everyman Cinema doesn’t seem like the most ‘local thing to do’ in Belsize Park, there’s some proper North London history behind here!

Originally a 1930’s theatre in Hampstead the Everyman Cinema was turned into the movie theatre we see today by entrepreneur Daniel Broch in 2000.

They’ve since expanded to Belsize Park (and Walton, Islington, Canary Wharf, Baker Street and more in London) with show-stopping surround sound venues — including an on-site bar, food, and beyond cosy seating. A movie night after exploring Belsize Park perhaps?

Go Celebrity Sighting

Similar to Hampstead Belsize Park is known for attracting celebrity clientele.

Now, of course, making a day of stalking celebrities isn’t the best way to spend your time in London. But while you’re pottering about the area keep a peeled eye for locals like Jude Law, Cameron Diaz, Noel Gallagher, Tom Hiddleston and dozens of other big superstars who call the area home.