Dear Hampsteadians,
I am wishing you well from outside of London this week, it’s my first post I’ve sent from outside the area so I hope it makes it all the way! There are signs of spring in the countryside already and I hope the Heath is keeping up!
As there are a few one off, unique events in the area this week - I’ll start with them…
Heritage Weekend 2026 — Lauderdale House, Highgate (N6) Saturday features a Local Heritage Fair with over 20 local organizations and talks on "Overlooked Local Women." Sunday transitions into a Heritage Family Fun Day with crafts and house trails.
Sat 28 Feb (12:00–17:00) & Sun 1 Mar (11:00–16:00). LINK
Wine Tasting: When the Farmer Makes the Champagne — Burgh House (NW3) A sophisticated evening exploring grower Champagnes. Learn the difference between big-house labels and the artisanal farmers who are redefining the region’s output.
Wed 25 Feb (19:00). LINK
A Spy Among Us: Daniel Defoe’s Secret Service — Waterstones, Hampstead (NW3) Author Marc Mierowsky visits the village to discuss the shadowy world of 18th-century espionage and how the creator of Robinson Crusoe was actually a government spy.
Mon 23 Feb (18:30). LINK
While They Were Waiting — Upstairs at the Gatehouse, Highgate (N6) PREMIERE: A brand-new comedy by Gary Wilmot. Starring Wilmot himself alongside Steve Furst, this play explores an unlikely friendship that blossoms in the most mundane of settings. A warm, witty addition to the Highgate stage.
Thu 26 Feb – Sun 22 Mar (19:30). LINK
Film Special: Caravaggio (1986) — Highgate Literary and Scientific Institution, Highgate (N6) A special screening of Derek Jarman’s visually stunning biopic of the Italian Baroque painter. The film is a poetic exploration of art, love, and violence, known for its incredible use of chiaroscuro lighting that mirrors Caravaggio’s own masterpieces. The screening is followed by a social opportunity to discuss the film’s enduring influence on queer cinema and art history.
Tue 24 Feb (20:00). LINK
Bird Grove (Official Press Night) — Hampstead Theatre, Swiss Cottage (NW3) The world premiere of Alexi Kaye Campbell’s new play, starring Owen Teale, officially opens to the critics this Monday. If you haven't booked yet, the remainder of the week offers your first chance to see what is sure to be one of the most talked-about productions of the spring.
Mon 23 Feb – Sat 21 Mar (19:30). LINK
Short Film Festival — London Film Club (Camden/NW1) While just on the edge of our usual patch, this monthly edition is the place to catch emerging cinematic talent and experimental shorts in an atmospheric setting.
Wed 25 Feb (18:00). LINK
Isle of Wight Festival: New Blood Quarter-Finals — The Fiddler’s Elbow (NW5) Catch the most promising rising bands in the country as they compete for a slot at the legendary festival. Expect high energy and a "who's who" of the local indie scene.
Thu 26 Feb & Fri 27 Feb (19:00). LINK
The Jive Aces — Upstairs at the Gatehouse (N6) The UK’s No.1 jive and swing band brings their high-energy, yellow-suited show to Highgate. If you need a tonic for the February blues, this is it.
Sun 1 Mar (19:30). LINK
João Menezes Trio — Hampstead Jazz Club (NW3) A soulful, intimate night of Brazilian music in the atmospheric basement of The Duke of Hamilton. Portuguese singer and guitarist João Menezes is joined by Marcinho Pereira and Matheus Nova to explore the rich rhythms of Bossa Nova, Samba, and MPB.
Fri 27 Feb (20:00). LINK
Some good news in the weather section - It’s getting warmer at last! https://www.bbc.co.uk/weather/2647553
Gitti Gitanavaicys: Another World — Burgh House, Hampstead (NW3) NEW EXHIBITION: Opening this week, this show replaces the Özlem Sorlu Thompson exhibition and offers a fresh perspective on the "otherworldly" through contemporary art.
Opens Wed 25 Feb (Wed–Sun, 10:00–16:00). LINK
Diz Harford: A Retrospective — Lauderdale House, Highgate (N6) A celebration of the vibrant, expressive works of the late Diz Harford, a longtime Highgate resident. This retrospective in the Long Gallery features her bold, color-rich oil paintings and sketches. Ongoing
(Check website for daily gallery times). LINK
Interesting fact of the week
Waterlow Park, where Lauderdale House sits, was known by its donor, Sir Sydney Waterlow, as a "garden for the gardenless." He gave the estate to the public in 1889 so that those living in the crowded Victorian North London would have a place for some fresh air.
Local Markets
The two classic markets are on as usual, located at the bottom of the heath at William Ellis school - they’re perfect for a weekend stroll through the heath and a browse. The farmers market has fresh produce and hot food, the boot sale could have anythings else!
Parliament hill Farmers Market - Sat 10am - 2pm
Bootyfull Carboot sale - Sun 11am - 2pm
West Hampstead Farmers’ Market — West Hampstead Thameslink Station (NW6) Located in the bustling forecourt of the Thameslink station, this Saturday staple brings the best of the countryside to NW6.
Sat 28 Feb (10:00–14:00). LINK
Hampstead Saturday Indoor Market — Hampstead Community Centre (NW3) A local staple for over 50 years, this vibrant indoor market is tucked just behind the High Street. With around 20 stalls, it’s a treasure trove for collectors and gift-hunters alike, featuring a rotating selection of antiques, vintage jewelry, handmade crafts, and pre-loved books.
Sat 28 Feb (10:00–17:00). LINK
Heritage Family Day — Lauderdale House Click to open side panel for more information , Highgate (N6) A highlight of the Heritage Weekend specifically for younger locals. The historic house transforms into a playground of history with "through the ages" craft sessions, a courtyard house trail, and a chance to explore the hidden nooks of this 16th-century building. It’s a fun, informal way for families to connect with Highgate’s past without the usual "don't touch" museum rules.
Sun 01 Mar (11:00–16:00). LINK
You Are The Sun: An Opera for Babies — Jacksons Lane, Highgate (N6) A folk-inspired opera specifically designed for 0–2 year olds. It explores the magic of nature through song and sensory play—a gentle, beautiful introduction to the arts for the very young.
Wed 25 Feb (Various times). LINK
Mind Reader: Alex McAleer — Jacksons Lane, Highgate (N6) For the older kids and adults, McAleer brings his "uncanny" mind-reading show to Highgate. No psychics, no ghosts—just high-level psychological illusion.
Thu 26 Feb (19:30). LINK
Thank you for reading and I really hope you have found something that looks interesting. If you think this would be a useful resource for anyone you know in the area, please do share this with them and help build our local community!
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