Guide to West Hampstead London: Best Cafes, Things to Do, and More
West Hampstead is one of West London’s best neighbourhoods, and it’s been my home for a year. It’s only a 15-minute walk from Hampstead, my all-time favorite area of London. And still offers a charming mix of village-like atmosphere and independent cafés. Plus, from here you have easy access to central London. In this guide, we’ll take you through the best cafés, things to do, and local highlights in West Hampstead London. If you’re looking for non-touristy things to do in London, then this is just it!
Just a heads up! This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to purchase something through the links, at no additional cost to you. Your support helps me continue doing what I love ♡. Thank you! Read our Affiliate Disclosure here.
History of West Hampstead London
Originally a rural hamlet known as West End, West Hampstead saw significant development in the late 19th century with the arrival of the railways.
The area became a desirable residential neighborhood, attracting artists, writers, and professionals looking for a quieter alternative to central London.
Today, it holds its historic charm while offering modern conveniences. Many young people live here and there’s quite a community. You have nice cafes, cozy cocktail bars, and a happening night life on the weekends while still maintaining a quiet residential atmosphere.
The main streets to explore in West Hampstead are West End Lane which is the high street. As well as Mill Lane which has a nice wine bar, nail salon shops, and cozy cafes.
How to Get To West Hampstead London
West Hampstead is well-connected by Underground, Overground, and Thameslink. The Jubilee Line stops at West Hampstead station, just 4 stops from Baker Street, providing easy access to central London.
The Overground connects to Richmond, Clapham Junction, Stratford, and Highbury & Islington.
The Thameslink station offers fast connections to St Pancras (5 mins), Luton, Gatwick, and Brighton.
Several buses, including the C11, 139, and 328, link West Hampstead to Brent Cross, Oxford Circus, and Kensington. All three stations are a short walk apart, making travel convenient.
Top things to do in West Hampstead London
- Shop on West End Lane. This is the main high street of West Hampstead full of shops, grocery stores, cafes, and more. Like the flower shop, Flowerstalk or the vintage shop, Sublime.
- Visit the West Hampstead Farmers Market which takes place every Saturday from 10am – 2pm at West Hampstead Thameslink Train Station.
- Relax in the park. West End Green is a small green space with benches you can chill in for hours!
- Take a pottery painting class. Art 4 Fun offers blank ceramics which you can paint and pick back a week later when they are glazed.
- Get your nails done at Cham Nails. I have been going here for months and can attest the owner T, is great. My nails always last for weeks. Plus, she does nail art at affordable prices.
- Visit the West End Bookstore. Shop for books or browse the nice shop.
- See a show at the West Hampstead Arts Club: This speakeasy style place holds various shows
- Grab a pint at a historic pub like Alice House, The Black Lion, The Alliance NW6.
- Or, if you fancy cocktails, head to one of my favorites, Bobby Fitzpatrick. It’s a really cool atmosphere. Plus, you’d be surprised that West Hampstead has a lively going out vibe on weekend evenings.
- Head over to Hampstead, it’s a beautiful neighborhood just a 15 minute walk away. You can read my full guide on the village-like neighborhood of Hampstead.
Bars & Restaurants in West Hampstead
Restaurants
- The French Society: Located on Mill Lane, this French restaurant is super cute, and the food is incredible. Don’t miss the homemade chocolate mousse for dessert – sooo good!
- Sushi Tokoro: cute, tiny, delicious spot for sushi. The chef used to work for Nobu, and it’s extremely affordable. If you visit enough, you might get your photo on the wall along with the other celebrities and locals who frequent this place.
- Kiyoto: great sushi and also on Deliveroo if you want it delivered to home
- Zia Lucia: Delicious Italian pizza
Brunch, Coffee Shops & Cafes
- Roni’s: brunch/bakery with great bagels
- Grocery Post: They have a health inspired grocery with the best coffee and salted brownie for sale in their cafe.
- The Wet Fish Cafe: brunch
- Mill House Cafe: brunch and coffee
- Local Coffee & Grocery: Great healthy brunch options and a small grocery in the back. I loved the avo toast with halloumi & sundried tomatoes (pictured above).
- Wired Coffee: cute coffee shop that turns into a wine bar at night
- Gails Coffee: A local chain that I love with fresh baked goods.
- Lola’s Bakery: They have cupcakes and brunch!
- Intermission Coffee: A tiny coffee shop next to the West Hampstead Overground Station
- Buzz Coffee: A nice place to work and enjoy coffee.
Pubs
Cocktail Bars
- Bobby Fitzpatrick: love the laid back vibes here
- ONE75: Cocktail Bar and Cicchetti
- Pavona: Restaurant, Cocktail Bar & SpeakEasy
Wine Bars
Hopefully, you enjoyed this little guide on the cute neighborhood of West Hampstead, London.
For further reading, you might like these other London posts!
🇬🇧 Non-touristy things to do in London – from a local!
🍺 The best Pubs in Hampstead
🏨 Best Areas and Hotels to Stay in London
🛍️ Things to do in Belgravia, London
🌳 How to Spend the Perfect Day in Primrose Hill
🏡 Guide to Hampstead in Northwest London
📆 A Locals Guide to 4 Days in London
✈️ A Solo Travelers Guide to London
🍁 Autumn in London Photo Spots
🩷 30+ Instagrammable Places in London
🏙️ Best Viewpoints of London
💟 Where to find Wisteria in London
☕10 Best Coffee & Brunch spots in London
🛒 London’s Best Markets for Shopping and Food
📸 The 5 Most Instagrammable Cafes in London
🛣️ Most Beautiful and Famous Streets in London
