Things To Do
in Harrow
Harrow is a leafy suburban town in northwest London known for its hilltop views and diverse communities. It blends historic landmarks, like Harrow School on Harrow-on-the-Hill, with a bustling town centre and a wide range of eateries reflecting its multicultural mix. The area is well-connected to central London and Heathrow, making it a convenient base for exploring the capital while enjoying quieter residential life.
With ample parks, markets, and family-friendly attractions, Harrow offers a balanced mix of culture, nature, and city access.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day by visiting Harrow on the Hill, where you'll find stunning architecture and picturesque views of London. Stroll through the quaint streets lined with historic buildings and enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional English fare. Don't miss the iconic Harrow School, founded in 1572, where you can admire its impressive Gothic Revival architecture.
After lunch, delve into the local history at the Harrow Museum, which showcases the area's rich past through engaging exhibits. Take a walk through the nearby Harrow Recreation Ground, where you can relax and enjoy the serene environment or perhaps have a picnic. Later, visit St. Mary's Church, known for its beautiful stained glass windows and historical significance.
As the sun sets, head to a cozy pub in Harrow for an authentic British dinner, sampling local ales and hearty dishes. Engage in conversation with friendly locals and perhaps enjoy some live music to truly immerse yourself in the community. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the town, appreciating the charm of Harrow at night.
Start your day at the Harrow Market, where you can explore a variety of stalls offering fresh produce, artisanal goods, and local crafts. Engage with friendly vendors and sample delicious street food, immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere. Take your time to browse through the unique items and perhaps pick up some souvenirs.
After browsing the market, head to the nearby Harrow Arts Centre for a creative workshop or exhibition, where you can appreciate local talent and artistry. Enjoy lunch at a café in the arts centre, soaking in the artistic ambiance around you. Spend your afternoon wandering through the nearby parks and gardens, such as the beautiful Headstone Manor and Museum grounds.
Return to the town center and enjoy dinner at a restaurant featuring international cuisine, allowing you to experience the diverse culinary offerings of Harrow. After your meal, catch a performance at the Harrow Arts Centre or a local theater, where you can enjoy music, drama, or comedy. Wrap up your evening with a nightcap at a nearby bar, reflecting on the day’s experiences.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee in a café | $3-5 |
| 🥪Lunch at a mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🚇1-day public transport pass | $7-12 |
| 🏠1-bedroom apartment (city centre) | $1800-2600 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Excellent access to central London and Heathrow
- Strong, diverse dining options with South Asian influence
- Pleasant parks and hilltop views at Harrow-on-the-Hill
- Solid family-friendly activities and safe neighbourhood feel
- Less nightlife variety compared with central London
- Can experience peak-hour traffic into and out of the city
- Some areas rely on public transport connections for rapid access
Places to Visit in Harrow
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic church with a commanding hilltop setting; strong architectural lines and sweeping city views make it a classic photography spot.
Impressive school architecture with historic arches and manicured grounds suitable for portrait and architectural shots.
Elevated vantage points offering expansive views over London on clear days, especially at sunset.
Vibrant street scenes around High Street with market life, diverse shopfronts, and lively street photography opportunities.
Food in Harrow
Harrow Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A British-Indian curry staple widely available in Harrow’s Indian restaurants; great with naan or rice.
Must-Try!
Marinated grilled cottage cheese served with peppers and onions; a popular vegetarian option.
Rich, aromatic lamb curry found in many curry houses around Harrow High Street.
Spiced chickpeas often served with fluffy fried bread; a hearty North Indian lunch option.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Occasional stalls in the town centre offering fresh produce, snacks, and quick bites on market days.
Small stalls and takeaway windows offering samosas, pakoras, dosas, and other regional street foods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
British etiquette emphasizes orderly queues, polite greetings, and leaving personal space. Say please and thank you in conversations.
Being on time is valued, especially for appointments, trains, and scheduled tours.
Most public indoor spaces are smoke-free; smoking is generally restricted in many outdoor areas as well.
Safety
Tipping in Harrow
Ensure a smooth experience
In the UK, tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, 10-15% for good service is common if service isn’t already added. Pubs and casual eateries may not expect tips.
Cards are widely accepted (contactless is common). Cash is still acceptable, but many establishments prefer card payments for convenience.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming trees; great for outdoor photography and strolling through parks and gardens.
Warm to occasionally hot, with longer daylight hours; expect pleasant outdoor dining but possible showers; plan for sun protection and rain gear.
Crimson and amber foliage provide picturesque backdrops; cooler temps but comfortable for walking tours.
Chilly and wetter conditions; city lights and indoor venues are good options; evenings are longer but often cozy in pubs and cafés.
Harrow at Night
Hiking in Harrow
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive woodland with marked trails, wildlife viewing, and seasonal scenery just a short distance from Harrow.
Historic manor grounds with circular walking routes and easy access to green space in North Harrow.
Pleasant parkland with ponds and networked footpaths suitable for longer, relaxed walks.
Expansive natural area with varied trails and reservoirs, ideal for day trips and longer hikes in Buckinghamshire and nearby areas.
Airports
How to reach Harrow by plane.
Approximately 7-15 miles away by car or rail from central Harrow; easy rail and road connections to reach terminals.
A further option for international and domestic flights, reachable by road or rail with some transfer times.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Significant representation in suburban neighborhoods and family communities.
A large and integral part of the community, reflected in restaurants, markets, and cultural events.
Diverse communities contributing to local culture and cuisine.
A contributing and visible part of Harrow’s multicultural makeup.
A growing share of residents reflecting London’s diverse population.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region with local clubs, school teams, and weekend matches common throughout the borough.
Active during the warmer months with local clubs and community leagues in parks and recreation grounds.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Harrow.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many curry houses and South Asian eateries offer abundant paneer and lentil dishes; specify spice level and oil preferences.
Several restaurants provide halal options; ask staff or look for halal-certified labels.
Most restaurants can accommodate gluten-free needs; request rice instead of naan and confirm sauces are gluten-free.