Hampstead Heath (an 800 acre park in North London)
Hampstead Heath is an 800 acre wild park in North London, which includes rugged landscapes and ancient woodlands, and some of London’s best views. Managed by the City of London, it’s just four miles from the centre. A green oasis for people who live in the capital.
Hampstead Heath is home to three natural bathing spots, which are popular for wild swimmers. It also features Parliament Hill, a legally protected viewpoint from where you can see St Paul’s Cathedral.
Kenwood House is a neo-classical villa on the northern edge, which you can view world-class art for free. And nearby Hill Garden is a hidden Edwardian treasure that has raised walkways covered in climbing plants.
We recommend avoiding the zoo, as you can conserve animals without caging animals.
The nearest tube stations are Hampstead or Belsize Park (northern Line).
Are dogs allowed on Hampstead Heath?
Dogs are allowed in most parts of Hampstead Heath, but follow the rules for those where they are not permitted, and keep on leads if not trained or in unsafe areas. Also avoid toxic plants and trees. A license is required for professional dog walkers.
A recent study by Imperial College London found that one dog-swimming pond contained chemicals dangerous to aquatic life, possibly from pesticides used in parasite treatments for flea and tick infestations, from ‘spot on formulas’ and flea collars. Obviously it’s important for pets to be flea-free, but these chemicals have been banned for agricultural use since 2018, due to harming bees, dragonflies and other insects.
So why are flea prevention companies still using them on pets?
Vet Dr Rosemary Perkins (from University of Sussex) says that many vet associations now recommend against routine blanket parasite treatment, saying it’s best to monitor and treat only when necessary.
Interim solutions are to vacuum frequently, wash bedding in hot water (with unscented laundry detergent), restrict access to high-risk areas and use a quality flea comb to inspect for ‘flea dirt’ and then treat only if evidence is found.
The Guardian reports that many are asking vets to stop profiteering from (sometimes) unnecessary flea treatments, which is killing insects and songbirds. One monthly flea treatment for a large dog contains enough imidacloprid to kill 25 million bees.
One biology professor asks ‘we don’t treat children with nits unless they have them?’
One nurse who was being pushed to pay for monthly flea treatments, switched to a smaller independent vet less interested in profit, and now only prescribes medicines when they are needed.
