About Belsize Park

At one time a sub manor of the Manor of Hampstead, Belsize Park has a truly fascinating history dating way back to the time of Henry VIII.

Imagine a fabulous mansion, Belsize House, standing in its own extensive grounds and commanding uninterrupted views across open fields towards Primrose Hill and on to London and Westminster. The forecourt of the mansion was so large it could accommodate one hundred coaches! Today's Belsize Avenue leading from Haverstock Hill was once the grand carriageway to the house.

Belsize Avenue, once the carriageway to Belsize House

The area enjoys a wonderful amalgamation of architectural styles, some of which are unique in London, created by architects who incorporated beauty into their designs. Belsize Park has been home to numerous famous people over the years, ranging from Robert Stevenson, (developer of the steam locomotive) to John Logie Baird (Television pioneer). Then there's Agatha Christie, Sigmund Freud, Barbara Hepworth, Sir Henry Moore, Piet Mondrian and Sir George Solti – not to mention rock stars and countless celebrities.

With its 500 years of history, many Belsize people have contributed to the artistic, cultural, architectural, and intellectual life of Britain. To see where it all began and to discover more about this very special part of London please see the story of Belsize House.

Belsize has a most fascinating history. Read more about the area, its people and its architecture at About Belsize. Over the years, many Belsize people have contributed to the artistic, cultural, architectural, and intellectual life of Britain.

The Belsize Society is open for local residents of the area. The society was set up to actively preserve and enhance the character of Belsize Park. Residents are welcome to join the Belsize Society.

Belsize Village in 2015