THE STORY OF HAMPSTEAD HEATH
Hampstead Heath pond in the winter, walking with a dear friend.
An Ancient heath, 790 acres ~ the largest single area of common land in Greater London. Sitting astride a sandy ridge, it is one of the highest points in London and runs from Hampstead to Highgate, resting on a band of London Clay.
The former stately home of Kenwood House and its estate adjoins to the north and the south-east part of the heath is Parliament Hill, from which the view over London is protected by law.
Running along its eastern perimeter is a chain of ponds – including three open-air public swimming ponds ~ which were originally reservoirs for drinking water from the River Fleet.