Parliament Hill Playground
Rating
Family of 4
USD 0; budget USD 20–30 if using the cafe
Duration
1–2 hours
Best Ages
0–10
About
Parliament Hill playground sits at the southern edge of Hampstead Heath, one of London's most expansive and beloved open spaces. The playground is consistently rated among the best free playgrounds in north London, with a wide range of equipment that caters to different age groups from toddlers to older primary school children.
The main play area features climbing frames of varying difficulty, multiple slides, swings including toddler bucket seats, and open spaces where children can move between equipment freely. A separate section with lower, gentler equipment suits younger toddlers and infants who are working up to the more ambitious structures. The quality of the equipment and the maintenance of the site reflects the City of London Corporation's investment in Hampstead Heath as a premium public space.
The playground setting is exceptional — the Heath stretches away in all directions, providing a genuinely natural environment rather than the concrete-surrounded feel of many urban playgrounds. After playground time, families can walk up to the top of Parliament Hill for one of the best views over the London skyline, feed the wildfowl at the ponds, or explore the wider Heath trails.
The Parliament Hill cafe is a short walk from the playground and serves good coffee, cakes, and hot food — a strong incentive for tired parents to extend the morning.
Age Suitability
Parent Logistics
Stroller-Friendly
Nursing / Changing
Yes — facilities at Parliament Hill athletics track and cafe
Kid Meals
Yes — Parliament Hill cafe nearby
Setting
Rainy Day
Not ideal
Plan Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings during school term; early mornings on weekends before crowds arrive
Wait Times
None
Nearby Food
Parliament Hill cafe adjacent to the playground; Kentish Town and Highgate both have strong cafe options a short walk or bus ride away
Why Kids Love It
Parliament Hill playground on the edge of Hampstead Heath is large, well-designed, and completely free. The equipment is genuinely impressive for a public park playground, with climbing frames, slides, and open areas that kids aged 0 to 10 can navigate at their own level. The setting on the Heath means the backdrop is one of the finest of any London playground.
Pro Tips from Parents
- The toddler section near the main playground entrance is separate and more sheltered — ideal for under-3s
- After playground time, walk the 5 minutes up to the Parliament Hill summit for the best free view of the London skyline
- The Parliament Hill cafe is excellent — arrive early before the weekend queue builds
What to Bring
- A spare change of clothes — the sandbox areas can get muddy after rain
- Snacks for post-playground picnic on the Heath
- Comfortable shoes for any exploration of the wider Hampstead Heath trails
Cost Info
Estimated Cost (Family of 4)
USD 0; budget USD 20–30 if using the cafe
Tips to Save
- Pack your own snacks — the cafe is lovely but adds up quickly for families