Description
Golders Hill Park is a beautifully landscaped green space managed by the City of London, located on the western edge of Hampstead Heath. As one of the best things to do with kids in Golders Green, this park and zoo offers a rare combination of formal flower gardens, a free animal collection, and extensive play areas. It is a fantastic destination for families looking for a varied outdoor experience that combines nature with wildlife encounters.
Entry to the park, the zoo, and the gardens is free, making it one of the most cost-effective days out in North London. While there is no admission fee, families may want to bring change for the refreshment kiosk or the popular on-site ice cream parlour.
If you are looking for the best place for a day out with family and kids that offers both relaxation and excitement, Golders Hill Park is a top choice. It provides a perfect setting for an educational day out where children can learn about exotic animals and explore native plant life in a safe, well-maintained environment.
Features
- Free
- Host birthday parties: No
Features
What makes Golders Hill Park unique?
Golders Hill Park stands out because it offers the amenities of a major London park alongside a small, legitimate zoo that is entirely free to the public. It provides an educational day out where the transition from viewing Mediterranean plants in the conservatory to spotting lemurs happens in just a few steps. The site features interactive exhibits in the form of nature trails and a sensory garden, making it ideal for sensory play and early years exploration.
- Free Zoo Collection: It is one of the few places in London where you can see exotic birds and mammals without a ticket.
- Stunning Landscaping: The park features a walled garden, a lily pond with a bridge, and a beautiful conservatory.
- Varied Play Areas: It includes both traditional playground equipment and large grassy slopes perfect for rolling down.
Top 5 Highlights
- The Zoo & Aviary: This is the park's biggest draw, where children can see ring-tailed lemurs, fallow deer, and a variety of exotic birds.
- The Walled Garden: A peaceful and colourful space that is perfect for a gentle stroll, featuring a charming sundial and seasonal blooms.
- The Butterfly House: Open during the summer months, this tropical space allows kids to walk among colourful flying butterflies.
- The Duck Pond & Bridge: A classic feature where families can enjoy the water and watch the resident waterfowl from the wooden bridge.
- The Conservatory: A beautiful glasshouse filled with exotic plants that provides a warm, interesting detour even on cooler days.
Golders Hill Park offers a rich variety of specific attractions and features:
- Ring-tailed Lemur Enclosure (A firm family favourite).
- Fallow Deer Paddock (Located on the grassy slopes).
- Kookaburra Aviary (Part of the bird collection).
- Mediterranean Conservatory (Home to tender plant species).
- Water Garden & Lily Pond (Featuring ornamental fish).
- Children's Play Area (With climbing frames and slides).
- Table Tennis Tables (Public use located near the café).
- The Bandstand (Used for seasonal concerts and events).
- Stumpery & Nature Trail (Encouraging local wildlife exploration).
- Sculptures (Various artworks dotted throughout the formal gardens).
Beyond the Main Attraction: The park is directly connected to the wider Hampstead Heath, offering miles of woodland walks and the famous Hampstead Heath Ponds. A short walk away is The Hill Garden and Perseverance, famous for its stunning raised terrace and pergola.
0.41 miles
