Gainsborough Gardens NW3

Open:

Saturday 10:00–17:00 + Sunday 10:00–17:00

Description:

In the 18th century Hampstead Wells were popular with fashionable Londoners, who visited the pump room to take the chalybeate waters and socialised in the assembly rooms, south of Well Walk. The area soon developed a reputation for rowdy behaviour and new spa buildings were erected in 1730 further along Well Walk. Eventually the former spa buildings were converted to other uses, including an evangelical chapel, and finally demolished at the end of the 19th century.

This area today is the site of Gainsborough Gardens, a circular enclosure with mature trees and luxuriant planting at the centre of a gated enclave of private houses.

Entrance:

Well Walk (north), Heathside (south)

Buses:

46, 268 + 24

Stations:

Hampstead, Hampstead Heath

Dogs:

Working assistance dogs only

Further information:

• Street Map (in new window)
• Visitors' comments