Kenwood House is a majestic villa on Hampstead Heath in north-west London. There has been a house here since 1616.
History of Kenwood House
The house was sold to William Murray, 1st Earl of Mansfield in the mid 1700s. He decided to make some changes. The house we see today is the work of architect Robert Adam who, around 1764, was commissioned by William Murray to add a wing to each end of the building. Adams created a magnificent library at one end and a delicately beautiful glass orangery at the other.
When Lord Iveagh bought the building in 1925, he filled it with his priceless art collection of paintings by Rembrandt, Gainsborough, Vermeer, Stubbs, Van Dyck and Turner plus many more world famous artists. It was donated to the nation by Lord Iveagh on his death in 1927, and opened to the public in 1928. He bequeathed the house and part of his collection of pictures to the nation and today the estate is looked after by English Heritage.
Explore Kenwood
The Kenwood Estate is situated on Hampstead Heath and covers a total area of 120 acres (50 hectares). One third of the estate is a Site of Special Scientific Interest, in particular the ancient woodlands which are home to many birds and insects. There are a lot of trails through the woods and large meadows to stroll across. The heath is one of London's largest parks, and walking through it is a very pleasant way to reach Kenwood, a bit like visiting a stately English country house in the heart of London.
Open Air Concerts at Kenwood
The open air concerts held in the summer at Kenwood have become part of London life. Do what Londoners do and take a picnic – a Kenwood tradition. Spread your rug on the ground and hear the concert for free, or pay for a deck chair to see the stage up close.
Where to Eat
There is a large restaurant which serves full meals and sandwiches. You can eat out or in. There also is a the Brew House Cafe which also serves breakfasts. If you want to sample a traditional London pub that serves good food one of the oldest and most interesting is the Spaniards Inn, a short walk from Kenwood. It is famous for being the stopover for the notorious highwayman, Dick Turpin as he travelled on his horse, Black Bess, from London to York.
How to Get to Kenwood
The easiest way is to take the Northern Line Underground train (subway) to Hampstead. It’s also a very pleasant walk to Kenwood from Hampstead. If you don’t have a map with you, just ask someone. If you don’t want to walk take a local bus, No. 210, which will take you to Kenwood House.
Visit Hampstead Village if you have time. Great restaurants, pubs and good shops.
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