Kenwood House - © Michael Greifeneder
Kenwood House is located in Hampstead North West London and is an imposing historic house well known for its design and art collections. The estate includes the house, gardens, woodland, parkland and lake. Visitors to the house can take a tour to see the renowned paintings and art works and enjoy the peaceful and relaxed setting making for an enjoyable day out.
Attractions
Kenwood House is located in a picturesque setting in parkland and offers visitors with some wonderful panoramic views over London. The historic house is set in grounds next to Hampstead Heath and is a wonderful example of neo classical architecture. The house is famous for having some of the most important and treasured paintings in the UK, the exceptional collection contains masterpieces by Gainsborough, Reynolds, Rembrandt and Turner to name but a few.
It was in the 18th century that the house was remodelled and turned in to an imposing stately home for Lord Mansfield. In subsequent years the parkland was redesigned and the estate remained with the Mansfield family until 1922. The estate was bought by the first Earl of Iveagh, when he died in 1928 he left the estate to the nation. Since that time the house has become well known as an art gallery as well as a historic house.
In recent years there have been a number of developments at Kenwood, the estate is now under the stewardship of English Heritage who have undertaken a project to ensure the estate is maintained and improved.
The Dining Room is a notable room in the house where there are red velvet and matching curtains in keeping with the style of the period. There are also a number of masterpiece art works on show.
The Music Room was originally created for the Countess of Mansfield, the room has been redesigned in order to compliment the portraits in the room, featuring the Georgian ladies. The curtains have been replaced and furniture has been newly upholstered.
The Eat, Drink and be Merry event is a special event at Kenwood and aims to celebrate the changes in attitudes to eating and drinking in the UK from the time of Elizabeth I up to the present day. There are paintings, prints and decorative arts that have been lent from other collections across the UK helping to create a range of set piece displays using period furniture and food.
The Gardens offer visitors a beautiful sight especially in the spring when you can see the rhododendrons and bluebells. There are number of sculptures to look out for in the park including pieces from Barbara Hepworth and Harry Moore. There a range of walks at the lakeside for visitors to enjoy along with the woodland.
The Mansion Cottage Visitor Information Centre offers a wealth of information to visitors on the estate including history and wildlife. The centre informs visitors about work in progress and projects that are going on currently. There is also a ‘what to look for’ at Kenwood display each month, this outlines various areas of interest to visitors.
How to Get There
The house can be accessed by both car and public transport:
By Car:
Located in Hampstead to the North of central London and is located off the B519. From central London take the A400 until the junction with the A1 close to Archway Tube station. Turn left on to the A1 and continue along Highgate Hill on to the B519, continue along the B519 and the house will appear on your left.
For those using Satellite Navigation systems the postcode is NW3 7JR.
By Train:
Hampstead Heath & Gospel Oak Station are the closest train stations to the site.
By Underground:
The Underground (Tube) stations at Golders Green & Archway and then using the Bus service 210 offers visitors access to the site.
By Bus:
There are various local bus services that service the area. The route numbers include 210 that runs from Finsbury Park to Golders Green.
Contact Details
Kenwood House
Hampstead Lane
Hampstead
London
NW3 7JR
United Kingdom
Telephone: +44 (0)20 8348 1286
Website: Kenwood House
Facilities & Information
Opening Times:
Monday to Sunday: 11.30 to 16.00
Note: Open all year round except on 24 to 26 December & January 1.
Tours takes approx 1 to 2 hours.
Further Information:
Admission Prices:
There is Free entry to the House.
Facilities:
The shop offers a range of gifts and souvenirs.
There are toilet facilities.
There is a restaurant serving drinks, refreshments, snacks and a range of meals.
Map
View Larger Map
For Local Search and Directions see: Kenwood House Map
Tips & Other Considerations
There may be some variations on the opening hours depending on the time of year and other factors. It is recommended visitors double check before going to ensure the attraction you wish to see is open and avoid disappointment.
Always remain alert, vigilant and aware of your belongings at all times. Ensure valuables such as your wallet/purse are hidden away from public view. If you have a bag try to use a shoulder bag with a good quality, strong strap, that is put across your shoulder not on your shoulder making it more difficult for anyone to take your bag.
If you are travelling by car to Hampstead ensure you are well prepared with maps and Sat Nav to aid your journey, particularly if you are not familiar with the local area and roads. Check road & traffic updates before you travel.
If you are looking for car parking close to Kenwood House, ensure you fully understand the rules, regulations & charges for car parks and street parking. The rules & regulations can be complex & confusing if you are unclear, it is wise not to park there.
If you are travelling by public transport, check for service updates prior to beginning your journey for any delays, disruption or cancellations to services that may impact on your journey. Ensure you have the service timetables for the trains, buses and coaches. Remember when the last services are and ensure you make it to the train/bus/coach stops well in time.
Disclaimer: The information given in on this website is given in good faith and to the best of our knowledge. If there are any discrepancies in no way do we intend to mislead. Important travel details and arrangements should be confirmed and verified with the relevant authorities.
