Car Hire Golders Green

If you’re the kind of person who enjoys finding quiet beauty tucked between more well-trodden paths, Golders Green offers a different pace, calm, layered with history and full of unexpected green space where 19,000 people reside. Sitting just below Hampstead Heath, this north-west London district is neatly placed for drivers coming in via the A41 or the North Circular, with easy links to central London yet just far enough out for a more residential feel.

Weather-wise, spring and early autumn are the most pleasant for wandering. The parks breathe a bit more easily, the streets are quieter and you’ll still catch warm afternoons without the midsummer crowds. Driving here can be surprisingly straightforward, especially midweek, which is ideal if you’re weaving between stops or heading towards Hendon or Finchley.

Attractions In Golders Green

Golders Green doesn’t often top the list of London day trips and that’s exactly why it stands out. Its character has taken shape over time, influenced by Victorian planning ideals and a long-established Jewish community that still gives the area its unmistakable flavour. We’d just finished exploring Hampstead when we crossed over and felt the pace shift, less polished perhaps but more grounded.

Golders Hill Park

We started with a slow stroll through Golders Hill Park, which sits along the fringe of Hampstead Heath yet has a surprisingly distinct atmosphere. The formal flower beds, small ornamental pond and open lawns attract dog walkers, families and those simply looking for somewhere to sit and read.

The benches near the water catch a lovely slice of late afternoon sun. There’s also a café that opens most days. The park is open from 7:30am to 4:30pm.

Golders Hill Park Zoo

Inside the same park is a small, free-entry zoo that’s ideal if you have kids in tow. Though modest, it’s well-kept and home to a surprising mix of species. We arrived just after opening and saw the lemurs bouncing between branches before they retreated from the heat.

If you’re planning to go, earlier is better—the animals are more active and the paths quieter.

Parliament Hill Viewpoint

Approaching from Highgate, this was an easy first stop. We parked just off Highgate Road and followed the slope upward to reach Parliament Hill, where the London skyline opens wide before you.

On clear days, you can pick out major landmarks from the Shard to the London Eye. We brought binoculars, which made it even more enjoyable.

The Hollow Tree

This is more a curiosity than a destination but it charmed us nonetheless. The Hollow Tree sits off Gordon House Road with no sign, no gate and no fanfare. You come across it almost by accident, just past a bend where the path darkens.

Kids love climbing inside its trunk and even adults seemed oddly drawn to it. Parking fills up quickly on weekends nearby, so it’s best to arrive early if driving.

The Hill Garden And Pergola

Just off Inverforth Close, this is the kind of spot that makes you slow your steps. The pergola is long and striking, draped with seasonal flowers and overlooking landscaped gardens. It was originally part of a private estate and it still carries that secluded feel.

If you enjoy photography, visit on a cloudy afternoon. The soft light makes the architecture glow. The garden is open daily from 8:30am to 4:30pm.

Burgh House

Small but memorable, Burgh House on New End Square offers a glimpse into Hampstead’s past. The exhibitions feel personal rather than curated for scale—local artists, wartime letters, musical performances, even a display about the local swimming pond community.

We wandered through at a relaxed pace and finished with a coffee and slice of cake in the courtyard café. Ask what’s on before you leave. They sometimes host events not widely advertised.

Grave Of Marc Bolan

An ideal detour for drivers coming from Cricklewood, the grave of glam rock icon Marc Bolan is simple and touching. Tucked into a small shaded clearing, it’s often decorated with fan tributes—flowers, vinyl sleeves, handwritten notes. We found parking easily on Gipsy Lane and walked a short way into the trees. It’s peaceful, low-key and clearly still visited often.

Northway Gardens

A short drive from Colindale, Northway Gardens makes a good stop if you’re in need of fresh air and something low-key. There’s a small stream, some open space for games and tidy tennis courts.

We grabbed pastries from a bakery on Falloden Way and sat on a shaded bench near the courts for a relaxed break.

Fenton House And Garden

We planned a morning outing from Muswell Hill and timed it well. Arriving just after the Sunday opening meant the gardens were almost empty.

Fenton House isn’t large but the collection of historic instruments, ceramics and paintings is well presented. The walled garden outside is the real highlight, especially in spring when the orchard begins to blossom. Worth checking the opening times, as it’s not open daily.

Kenwood Viewpoint

This spot draws a lot of interest from people in West Hampstead and we can see why. Located just beyond Kenwood House, it’s not far but feels like a world away from city noise.

The grass is thick and the trees frame the view beautifully. There’s no café on-site, so bringing your own drink turns this into a proper rest stop rather than just a passing glance.

Nearby Tables And Stays

After a few hours wandering among gardens and viewpoints, it’s worth knowing where to find a warm meal or a quiet place to rest. Daniel’s Bagel Bakery, just off Finchley Road, is a long-standing favourite for challah, filled bagels and traditional pastries, with a steady flow of regulars throughout the day. For something heartier, Likya Ocakbasi on Golders Green Road serves authentic Turkish dishes in generous portions, ideal for a relaxed sit-down meal. If you’re staying overnight, Anchor Guest House offers budget-friendly rooms just a short walk from the station, with parking, Wi-Fi and a friendly welcome that makes it a convenient base for drivers.