Parliament Hill

Parliament Hill in London is a grassy rise at the south-eastern corner of Hampstead Heath, in the north of the city. At roughly 98 metres, it ranks among the best free viewpoints over the capital's skyline. It is not the Parliament Hill in Ottawa, which hosts Canada's legislature.

What can you see from the top?

The summit looks south across central London. On a clear day you can pick out St Paul's Cathedral, the Gherkin, the Shard, the towers of Canary Wharf and the Palace of Westminster. Parliament sits about 10 km away, and newer buildings in the foreground now hide part of it. The panorama has legal protection, and a plaque at the top labels the landmarks so you can match each outline to its name.

Where does the name come from?

The usual explanation points to the English Civil War, when Parliamentarian troops are said to have held the hill, though the origin is contested. An older name, Traitors' Hill, comes from a legend that Gunpowder Plot conspirators in 1605 planned to watch Parliament blow up from here. Historians regard that story as doubtful. The land belonged to a manor granted by Henry I in 1133. It was bought for public use in 1888 for £300,000 and joined to the Heath. Cattle grazed it until the 1940s, and the City of London Corporation has looked after it since 1989.

How do you get to Parliament Hill?

The simplest route is London Overground to Gospel Oak, on the south-east side of the park. From there the walk up takes about fifteen minutes. You can also use Hampstead Heath station on the opposite south-western edge, or take the Northern line to Kentish Town, Belsize Park, Hampstead or Golders Green and walk in. Buses 24, 46 and C11 stop near the southern entrance. The Parliament Hill Café at the foot of the slope makes a handy meeting point.

What else is there to do nearby?

The hill is a classic spot for flying kites, a habit said to go back to the 17th century, and breezy days draw families with colourful kites. Parliament Hill Fields below has a café and an open-air lido, and paths lead on to the Highgate ponds and deeper into the Heath. Entry is free, and the climb is a gentle grass slope with no difficult sections.

When is the best time to visit?

Pick a clear day for the sharpest view. Sunset, when lights come on in the towers, is among the most photogenic moments in London. Summer weekends bring picnickers, so if you prefer quiet, go on a weekday morning. In winter dress warmly, as the top can be windy.

Frequently asked questions

Is Parliament Hill free to visit? Yes. It is open parkland within Hampstead Heath, with no ticket needed.

How long is the walk from Gospel Oak station? About 15 minutes at an easy pace.

Which landmarks are visible? St Paul's Cathedral, the Gherkin, the Shard, Canary Wharf and the Palace of Westminster.

Is it the same as Parliament Hill in Ottawa? No. The London hill is a park viewpoint, while the Canadian one is the site of the country's parliament buildings.