Spotlight on Hampstead

By James Morton – MD, Benham & Reeves
Despite the disruption caused by snow, the property market in Hampstead and the surrounding area has been brisk and the data suggests conditions are improving following a sluggish second half of 2012. Additionally, we have seen a 60% increase in the level of new instructions and 30% rise in new buyers for January. The major portals and other house price indicators are also reporting an increase in activity and prices. Hampstead appears to be continuing to outperform other parts of the UK and London and retains its place as a prime location to buy in.

It is easy to see why Hampstead has become so popular, bathed with literary, artistic and musical connections it is delightful place to visit and retains a village identity.

For centuries wealthy city dwellers have made the most of the fields and open countryside in or around Hampstead for sport and leisure pursuits. In the 17th century it was hunting and today it’s to play Frisbee, run, sunbathe and generally have fun in the open spaces of Hampstead Heath.

Hampstead is well renowned for its magnificent surrounding views, standing as it does on an eminence overlooking the City of London.

Hampstead apparently has more blue plaques than any other London suburb. John Constable is buried in Hampstead parish church, and in his lifetime painted many well-known pictures of Hampstead and the Heath, which are hung in galleries all over the world.

Hampstead can boast many museums including Fenton House, Freud Museum, Burgh House, Keats Museum and Kenwood House.

Well known pubs include The Old Bull and Bush, The Spaniards Inn and The Holly Bush all of which capture the historical and rural feel of the area.

Today, Hampstead is a dynamic and thriving shopping area, successfully mixing modern and old and of course, best of all – Hampstead Heath. The schools are also some of the best in London.

Benham and Reeves have now been selling in the areas around Hampstead Heath for nearly 60 years.