Why Retire in Hampstead? Discovering London's Timeless Village

Choosing where to spend your retirement is a big decision. Whether you are looking to be closer to family, seeking easier access to everyday amenities, or simply craving a fresh start, the search for the perfect location can sometimes feel daunting.

Village life in the heart of London

Perched high above the city’s bustle, what was once a secluded artistic village has grown into arguably London’s most charming suburb and is also home to our Belle Vue and Fitzjohn’s community. Hampstead offers the best of both worlds: the sophistication of a global capital combined with the cosy, leafy charm of a country town.

You could explore Hampstead for years and still find secrets hidden within its winding Georgian streets or tucked away in the timbered corners of its historic pubs. The area’s intellectual heritage is impressive; it has long attracted thinkers and creators for centuries.

What makes living in Hampstead perfect for joyful later living for the over-60s?

Hampstead Shopping: Curated Retail Therapy Options

In contrast to the frantic pace of the West End, shopping in Hampstead offers an intimate, laid-back experience where the high street remains walkable and full of character. It is a place where independent boutiques and family-run shops prioritise quality over quantity, offering a hand-picked mix of emerging designers, unique gifts, and antiques that reflect the area’s storied past. This is the kind of neighbourhood where shopkeepers quickly come to know your name, making it the ultimate destination to enjoy a leisurely afternoon stroll and lunch with friends.

Living here means having access to a treasure trove of independent shops and boutiques as well as everyday essentials, right on your doorstep.

Abundant Green spaces in Hampstead: Enjoy the outdoors

Living in London often conjures images of bustling streets and endless concrete, but Hampstead offers a serene, leafy alternative that feels worlds away from the urban grind. Renowned for its tranquil green spaces, this neighbourhood serves as a delightful natural escape for those looking to maintain an active lifestyle in their later years. At the heart of the community lies Hampstead Heath, an expansive 790-acre wild parkland.  Whether you are enjoying a gentle stroll through ancient woodlands, swimming in the famous ponds on the heath, or taking in the panoramic skyline views from Parliament Hill, the Heath provides a quiet sanctuary that is open 24/7.

A Cultural Haven: Art, History, and Entertainment in Hampstead

Hampstead serves as a cultural haven where a rich intellectual history blends with a contemporary arts and shopping scene. This legacy is preserved in intimate museums like Keats House, the Freud Museum, and Burgh House, while artistic treasures abound at Kenwood House and the Fenton House instrument collections. Beyond its historic literary roots, the neighbourhood offers diverse shopping and entertainment, from the Hampstead Antique Fair and the charming Keith Fawkes on Flask Walk to esteemed local theatres. 

Hampstead's Social Scene: Pubs, Bars, and Cocktails

The area’s social scene is defined by its collection of characterful pubs and sophisticated bars, perfect for any season or occasion. You can enjoy a classic tipple in a bustling beer garden at The Garden Gate or The Roebuck, while away a cosy winter evening playing board games at The Wells, or visit The Holly Bush, a beloved 18th-century gem tucked away on a quiet residential street. For those who prefer cocktails or are looking for something special, Alice House in West Hampstead serves an array of delicious blends. If you are looking to treat visiting loved ones, a quick taxi ride leads to The Nest, a gorgeous rooftop setting offering unparalleled 360-degree views of the London skyline.

Dining in Hampstead: From Casual Lunches to Decadent Meals

Looking for somewhere to enjoy a tasty mid-week lunch to catch up with friends?  Silverberry is the place to go for all-day brunch options and delicious house-blend coffee - they are also dog-friendly! For mid-week dinners where you don't fancy cooking, why not try Oliviya, a Lebanese restaurant with plenty of mezze dishes to choose from. For something more decadent, just a car journey away, visit The Goring for a Michelin-star experience or Mezzaluna Hampstead for sophisticated dining and flavours.

Residents of our Belle Vue community will soon be spoiled for choice for lunchtime goodness, with Brad & Dills soon to open on-site. They specialise in great coffee and delicious New York-style bagels.

Making your next move to Hampstead, London

Hampstead offers a wonderful lifestyle for life over 60: one where everyday amenities, cultural hotspots and green space come together. Our Pegasus Homes communities are perfectly placed to ensure you get the absolute best of this sought-after location. 

If you’re looking to enjoy your next chapter in the heart of Hampstead, get in touch with our friendly customer advisor team to book a viewing:

E: [email protected] or discover more about the community.

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