London Buildings Outside London Fenton HouseFenton House - Hampstead
Fenton House, Hampstead is a 17th century merchant's house in North London belonging to the National Trust. The last owner and 
resident died in 1952 (Lady Binning) after living there for 16 years and it was passed to the NT, so the public could gain access to the building's collections and grounds.
Surrounded by an extensive walled garden featuring roses, an orchard and a working kitchen garden - it has changed little since it was built. The interior contains the Benton Fletcher collection of early keyboard instruments, one of which is often played to visitors during opening hours, and collections of paintings, porcelain, 17th-century needlework pictures and rare Georgian furniture. They have frequent recitals using these delicate instruments - you can call the number below to check on upcoming events.
Built in 1686, it was acquired by wealthy merchant - Philip Fenton - in 1793 and given the name Fenton House. Access to the house is around the £5 mark, but if you're just interested in the gardens, they only cost £1 to enter. It's a very short walk from the shops and restaurants of Hampstead 'village' and an interesting option if you plan to visit Hampstead Heath, Kenwood House or Highgate Cemetery.
It's best to visit in Spring or Summer, Spring particularly: fruit blossoms on the trees, daffodils in small patches near the base of trees. When it was built, London was some way distant and although its boundaries spread through Hampstead in the 20th century, passing out the other side, it has always remained pleasantly rural. You can sit on the numerous benches located around the gardens, listening to the bees working on their honey (it has an apiary) and discover yet another facet of London - that of a rural idyll.
Open between March and October: 11am-5pm on Weds-Sun.
Fenton House, Windmill Hill, Hampstead, London, NW3 6RT.
Call: 020 7435 3471 01494 755563 (Infoline)
Nearest Tube: Hampstead.
