Top 10 Things To See And Do In Muswell Hill And Highgate

Muswell Hill and Highgate are two of the loveliest parts of North London, both easily accessible on the Northern line. The former hangout of both The Kinks and Madness, these areas are perfect if you want to get away from the hubbub and noise of central London and have a pleasant weekend either by yourself or with friends.

Muswell is home to two wonderful independent bookshops, Muswell Hill Bookshop and the Children’s Bookshop, which are both worth a visit. The Children’s Bookshop is an award-winning shop which has been in Muzz since 1974, it is very popular with authors and has hosted events featuring Julia Donaldson, Michael Morpurgo and Malorie Blackman. The adult bookshop is well stocked with classics and contemporary favourites. Fun fact: Muswell Hill Bookshop was used in the 2010 film Tamara Drewe, starring Dominic Cooper and Gemma Arterton.

Muswell Hill Bookshop, 72 Fortis Green Rd, London, UK +44 208 444 7588

Children’s Bookshop, 29 Fortis Green Rd, London, UK+ 44 208 444 5500

The old railway line walk (or parkland walk) runs between wooded canopies and open bridges, which offer stunning views of North London and the city beyond. Don’t worry, there are no rails or trains to ruin your pleasant saunter. The walk is sheltered enough from houses and busy roads to give the impression that you are walking in a rural countryside, rather than the urban jungle. The full walk is about 4.5 miles long and goes from Alexandra Palace all the way to Finsbury Park, but you can take the shorter route and pop off the track when you reach Highgate Wood.