Hampstead - August 16, 2008

The day before Annie's parents went back to the US we took them up to Hampstead Heath. This is a place we've always wanted to visit and explore but have never had the opportunity. It was a quick trip up the Northern line and is like a different world. We had a great time in both the neighborhood of Hampstead and walking around the Heath.

The four of us enjoyed lunch at Cafe Base (71 Hampstead High Street) which was good, but relatively standard fare. Annie, her Mom and I all got wraps/paninis, while Annie's Dad got a burger. The sauteed potatoes we got were the highlight of the meal. If we go back again, we plan on trying one of the milkshakes they had on the menu.

While walking along Hampstead High Street we were lured into Rosslyn Delicatessen by some meringue in the window. We were surprised to find tucked away in the back of the store a room filled with American products! We picked up some "essentials": a bottle of Hidden Valley Ranch, original flavored Goldfish, Mike and Ikes and Nerds. Other products included Crisco, Old Bay Seasoning, Bisquick, Marshmallow Fluff, Lucky Charms, Kraft Mac & Cheese and lots more! Annie's Mom later remembered an article she read in the Washington Post that mentioned a store with American products in Hampstead. I guess we have found it!

The Rosslyn, Hampstead High Street

Hampstead Heath itself was awesome. It is like a little piece of the countryside in the middle of London. There are loads of walking paths to explore, three swimming ponds (men's, women's and mixed) and lots more. During our exploration of the Heath, we stopped for coffee and cakes at the nice cafe, The Brew House at Kenwood House. Kenwood House hosts picnic concerts and that day they were setting up for the Van Morrison concert later that night. Nearby Kenwood House there is also a sculpture by Henry Moore, which we were excited to find!

On our walk back through the Heath to the Tube we went to Parliament Hill which provides great views of London. We could even see Crystal Palace TV tower, which we can also see from our apartment! We thoroughly enjoyed our walk and will definitely be visiting the Heath (along with Rosslyn Deli to get some Ranch!) again soon.

View from Parliament Hill, Hampstead