Belsize Park

Belsize is derived from the French, Bel Assis, which actually means "beautifully situated". A cliché today perhaps, but no-one could argue against such a claim for this cosseted corner of north-west London . Th area is walking distance from Hampstead but has its own warmth and charm. Belsize Park is more personal than Hampstead,

Perfectly positioned for Hampstead walks and West End shopping, the existence of "Belsize" remained an historical secret until the beginning of the 14th century, when Sir Roger le Brabazon reportedly left land in the area of Hampstead Manor to Westminster Abbey.

The first proper streets of Belsize were laid out in the 1850s and most of the main thoroughfares were quickly established within less than two decades. By 1870 Belsize had become Belsize Park , thanks mainly to the efforts of one Daniel Tidey, a builder and property developer. Tidey is responsible for the Belsize Tavern (where he would die after falling on hard times) and the Washington Hotel, which was named after his home town in Sussex .

Because the area was 'developed' to provide for a variety of residential estates, Belsize Park has inherited three fundamental focal points - Belsize Village, England's Lane and Haverstock Hill - all with their own special flavour and unique selection of shops and eateries. Transport amenities include Belsize Park tube (Northern Line) and numerous buses.