Things To Do
in Barnet
Barnet, also known as Chipping Barnet, is a historic market town in the north of Greater London. It blends medieval street patterns with suburban neighborhoods and abundant green spaces. The borough sits on the edge of the Green Belt, offering easy access to woods, commons, and parks while keeping London connected transport links.
Visitors can explore a lively High Street, enjoy tranquil walks, and sample diverse local cuisines.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll down Barnet High Street, where you can admire the historic architecture and vibrant shopfronts. Grab a coffee at one of the local cafes and enjoy people-watching as the town comes alive. Don't forget to check out the Barnet Museum to learn more about the local history.
After lunch, head over to the stunning Barnet Church, an iconic landmark that dates back to the 12th century. Explore the nearby grounds and the quaint surroundings, which offer a sweet glimpse into the town’s past. Finish the afternoon with a visit to the Spires shopping centre for some retail therapy.
As the sun sets, enjoy a wonderful dinner at a traditional pub, where you can savor classic British cuisine. After your meal, take a leisurely walk in the nearby parks, soaking in the tranquility of the evening. To wrap up your day, find a cozy spot to enjoy a pint or a glass of wine at one of the local taverns.
Begin your morning by visiting the High Barnet Tube Station, where you can take a moment to appreciate its vintage design and historical significance. Grab a picture as you enjoy the buzz of commuters getting ready for their day. Consider taking a ride into central London for a quick excursion if you’re up for an adventure.
Return to Barnet in the afternoon and take a leisurely walk through the stunning Greenside Walk, surrounded by beautiful gardens and open spaces. Stop by a local café for lunch and indulge in some delicious homemade treats. Visit the nearby Barnet Library to immerse yourself in a good book or participate in a local event.
As evening falls, select a restaurant in the area offering international cuisine for a diverse dining experience. Post-dinner, explore the local nightlife with a visit to a nearby bar that features live music or entertainment. Enjoy a relaxing nightcap while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-5 |
| 🍕Pizza | $8-14 |
| 🍷Glass of wine | $6-9 |
| 🚇Transit fare (Oyster/contactless) | $3-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Good rail links to central London
- Abundant green spaces and parks
- Strong local dining options
- Safe and family friendly environment
- Busier during peak commuting hours
- Limited nightlife compared to central London
- Some areas can feel very quiet at night in neighborhoods outside town center
Places to Visit in Barnet
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic timber-framed facades, quaint storefronts, and the market cross provide classic Kentish town vibes especially in morning light.
Forest paths, open meadows, and hedgerows with seasonal light perfect for landscape and nature photography.
Water reflections and woodlands offering serene scenes, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Modern shopping complex with architectural angles that create interesting cityscape shots, especially at dusk.
Food in Barnet
Barnet Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Classic British takeaway or pub meal, best enjoyed wrapped in paper and served with tartar sauce and mushy peas at a friendly pub or chippy.
Must-Try!
Hearty mashed potato topped pie filled with meat and gravy, a comfort staple in many pubs and family restaurants.
A hearty plate of eggs, bacon, sausages, beans and toast typically enjoyed at local cafes and pubs.
South Asian curries available in many Barnet eateries, showcasing the area’s diverse dining scene.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market in Market Place offering fresh produce, cheeses, baked goods and occasional street food on market days.
Pop-ups around the High Street on Saturdays and Sundays offering varied global snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
British people usually queue patiently and wait their turn; avoid jumping ahead.
Be on time for appointments and informal meetings; punctuality is valued.
Say please and thank you; keep conversations courteous in public spaces.
Card payments are widely accepted; carry contactless payment options.
Safety
Tipping in Barnet
Ensure a smooth experience
In pubs and restaurants, a tip of 10-15% is customary if service is not included. Rounding up the bill is common in casual venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with long daylight hours; expect occasional showers. Great for outdoor markets, pubs with patios and park strolls.
Mild temperatures and turning leaves create golden hour opportunities in Monken Hadley Common and parks.
Shorter days and cooler weather; Christmas lights and cozy pubs provide indoor photography opportunities and warm atmospheres.
Blooms in parks and gardens bring vibrant color; ideal for street and nature photography as the city wakes up.
Barnet at Night
Hiking in Barnet
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular circular walk through woodland and meadow with accessible paths.
Scenic route around the reservoirs with water views and birdlife.
Green belt lanes and hedgerows ideal for a relaxed countryside stroll.
Airports
How to reach Barnet by plane.
North of London; around 25-40 miles from Barnet, accessible by train or car.
West of central London; about 20-40 miles from Barnet depending on route; major international hub.
South of London; farther away but reachable by rail links via central London.
East of London; closer to inner city routes, less common for Barnet travelers but reachable by rail.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large proportion of residents are families drawn to the boroughs good schools and parks.
Many commute into central London for work and leisure, contributing to a vibrant urban vibe.
Stable communities with strong local networks and community groups.
A multicultural mix reflects London's global character and offers diverse cuisine and cultural events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is popular in Barnet with local clubs and nearby professional teams in North London; matches draw local support.
Cricket clubs and leagues run in parks during summer.
Local golf courses including Hadley Wood Golf Club provide social and competitive play.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Barnet.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most eateries in Barnet offer vegetarian options; look for veggie mains, cheese or plant based dishes, and ask for customization if needed.