OVERVIEW

Hampstead Heath (locally known as "the Heath") is London's largest ancient parkland, covering 320 hectares (790 acres). At the North end of the Heath is Kenwood House Stately Home with its grounds open to the public and elsewhere a Lido, open air swimming ponds, running track, playgrounds and cafe. The views from Parliament Hill over London are superb. Whilst many club runners will know the heath from muddy cross country races, it is also criss-crossed by plenty of surfaced paths, so it is possible to have a good run without getting muddy. However there is no escape from the hills!