Primrose Hill offers one of the most scenic and iconic views of the London skyline. The surrounding area is filled with independent bars, restaurants, shops and cafes. In this guide, we look at some of the best things to see and do in the Primrose Hill area.

Take in the view

Once part of Henry VIII’s private hunting ground, the hill was made a public open space in 1841 to allow the surrounding areas’ residents better access to green spaces. Nowadays, Primrose Hill has unrivalled views of the city, ample open space and tree-lined pathways. As well as being a hot spot for joggers, it is also a favourite destination for families looking for the perfect place for a picnic or for flying a kite. The hill’s summit is 63 metres above sea level and is one of only six protected views in the city.

Go Blue Plaque Spotting

Primrose Hill has had its fair share of famous residents through the years, from the infamous “Primrose Hill Set” of Kate Moss, the Gallagher Brothers, Jude Law, Patsy Kensit and Rhys Ifans to William Butler Yeats, Sylvia Plath and Dylan Thomas. There are seven blue plaques dotted around the area, each marking famous cultural and historical inhabitants’ residences. The criteria for an English Heritage blue plaque is that the recipient must have been dead for at least 20 years and lived in the location for a significant amount of time or during an important part of their life.

Enjoy a Meal at Odette’s

Since opening in 1978, Odette’s has become an iconic restaurant, seating just 60 in the main dining area. The lunch menu changes weekly depending on the seasonality, availability and selection of its locally sourced ingredients. Having worked under Marco Pierre White at The Criterion, Michel Roux at Le Gavroche for three years, Chef Patron Bryn Williams is known for serving food with imagination and care.

Go Shopping

There is still an undeniable joy of walking into a real book shop and perusing the carefully curated selection of paperback and hardback fiction. Primrose Hill Books on Regent’s Park Road is perhaps the epitome of an independent book shop, staffed by a friendly and knowledgeable team and is the venue for signings and readings throughout the year. Besides books, there is plenty to buy from the area’s small and independent shops such as butchers, fishmongers, fashion boutiques and a local produce market.
Although there are no underground stations in the Primrose Hill area, you can easily walk in from Chalk Farm, Camden Town, Swiss Cottage or St John’s Wood stations. Primrose Hill is undoubtedly an area worth exploring on foot; if you cannot quite manage the climb to the top of the hill, be sure to walk along Chalcot Crescent and admire the pastel-coloured houses on one of London’s most picturesque streets.
Primrose Hill is one of the most exclusive and in-demand neighbourhoods of North-West London, so if you are considering moving to the area, you will need a removals company that can take care of your requirements every step of the way. Click here for more information on Cadogan Tate’s specialist removals service to the Primrose Hill area.